Guan Ping lifts Liguan onto an exercise machine in their home. [Photo by Tan Yingzi/China Daily]

Under great pressure, Guan attempted to commit suicide twice. "Most people, including my husband, could not relate to me and criticized my actions," she said. "I believe that the only way for my son to achieve his dreams is through rigorous training."

Guan's hard work paid off. By age 16, Liguan was able to walk by himself. Now, he can conduct basic daily tasks, such as going to the toilet, washing his face, dressing himself and cooking simple meals.

"My mother and I have a very close relationship," Liguan said. "She is my best friend, teacher and coach."

Due to his physical condition, Liguan did not attend school. Instead, his mother, a high school graduate, educated him at home.

When Liguan was 12, he fell in love with learning English. Guan bought him a lot of study materials, and took him to local language training centers and English corners in the city.

Liguan has shown a great talent for learning English. He has passed China's Public English Test 4, demonstrating English language ability equivalent to that of a nonnative English major student.

However, his physical handicap prevents him from taking further tests, as he writes too slowly to complete examinations in time.

Last year, a Chinese friend at Oxford University recommended Liguan for a translation job for a picture book of Chinese calligraphy and painting.

His work gained recognition from the author who then asked him to translate the second volume of the book.

Guan is currently working on his third translation project: a book on the origins of Chinese characters.

He also likes writing poems and songs. A poem he wrote in English, A Fruit That Was Loved By A Worm, reads:

I have no graceful appearance,

But a fine, pure spirit.

My dumbness illustrates intelligence.

My blemish makes you seem more complete.

The world is beautiful because of you,

And more realistic because of me.

"My dream is to become a professional English translator and song composer," Liguan said.

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