Source: Dapuli Life Network, April 21, 2013

[By Bo Yuanxiang / Puli Report] The afternoon of the 21st marked the first off-site service by Kokomu Woodworking House in Puli Town. A group of cerebellar ataxia patients from across the country, who face mobility challenges and physical weakness, still desired to experience the joy of DIY picture frame making. Staff from Kokomu and volunteers from the Water Spirit Scout Troop of the National Chi Nan University Affiliated High School specially traveled to the Niu Er Art Resort where the patients were staying. They assisted the patients in completing their artworks, allowing them to feel the warm hospitality and human touch of Puli.

Cerebellar ataxia is a hereditary rare disease, with approximately 2,000 patients nationwide. Chen Pin-ying, Head of the Planning Department of the Chinese Cerebellar Ataxia Patients Association, pointed out that patients often develop symptoms during their prime working years, experiencing weakness, tremors, and loss of motor control in their limbs. Their gait becomes unsteady, resembling that of a penguin, often requiring wheelchair use. In severe cases, patients struggle with swallowing, breathing, and speech. DNA testing is required for a definitive diagnosis. Although their mobility is impaired, their minds remain clear. Upon receiving their diagnosis, many find it difficult to accept the reality. Organizing outings encourages patients to engage with others, while also allowing family members to exchange emotions and share experiences regarding the condition.

Originally, the association planned to hold the event at the Kokomu Woodworking House tourist factory. However, considering the patients' mobility limitations, budget constraints, and the fact that they rarely get to stay out overnight, owners Shih Wen-jie and Huang Xiang-yu decided to lead their team to the Niu Er Art Resort to help the patients paint picture frames. Upon learning about this meaningful initiative, the Water Spirit Scout Troop from the National Chi Nan University Affiliated High School mobilized its members to assist at the venue, setting up an accessible environment.

After completing the painted picture frames, Kokomu Woodworking House owner Shih Wen-jie and cerebellar ataxia patient Zhou Jia-yu both smiled. (Photo by Bo Yuanxiang)

Shih Wen-jie expressed that the patients were more optimistic and proactive than he had imagined. He learned a great deal from them, and his companions also developed a sense of contentment, making it a wonderful charitable experience.

The mother of patient Xie Mengzhen expressed gratitude to all sectors of society for providing accessible transportation, accommodation, and caring services, which allowed her family to enjoy a rare happy outing. Zheng Meiying, mother of patient Zhou Jia-yu, shared that her son is eager to try new things. Over time, she has learned from her son's optimistic attitude how to face life positively. She believes that perhaps God allowed her son to have this illness so that he could inspire others even more.

Since the patients had difficulty using their arms, volunteers and family members helped prepare DIY materials and mix colors. They then held the patients' hands to assist with the force needed for painting. It took four times longer than usual to complete the artworks. Seeing the hand-painted picture frames, the patients were overjoyed. They expressed that the beautiful memories of this trip would be preserved in the frames, recording their journey of facing this rare disease with optimism.

Cerebellar ataxia patients experience progressive degeneration of motor functions and require companionship and care from family members. (Photo by Bo Yuanxiang)