Paralympics boost community awareness

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Zhao Huirong said, "I think the Paralympics has helped to change people's general attitudes towards our disabled people. The society has cared more about our lives and have built many barrier free facilities. I hope the presence of the Paralympics will remain."

Zhao Huirong's wish is shared by Coach Yan Jianhua, whose students won gold in the men's 4-by-100 meters relay.

Yan Jianhua, a Chinese Paralympic coach, said, " I hope the Paralympics will not be a short-term event. People's care for the disadvantaged group of people should last long after the games."

Yan Jianhua says there used to be hardly any spectators for the paralympic sports, but what's happened here at the Birds Nest stunned him. He hopes the warmth could become a social phenomenon that helps more disabled people face life.

Liu Xiangkun, the Chinese runner, said, "The spectators' warm cheers gave me 100 percent strength."

The gold medal could change Liu Xiangkun's life, but many need to create their own golden opportunity.

In one of Beijing's rehabilitation centers, Xu Junxian is making handicrafts. The former accountant was laid off over ten years ago.

Xu Junxian said, "I went through a long period of depression at home after I was let go, I felt lonely until I found the job here. Although the job is simple, it makes me feel I am useful and equally important."

To hold a successful Paralympics, Beijing has been retro-fitted with ramps for wheelchairs, and barrier-free taxis and buses are being offered.

There are 80 million disabled in China, though you don't see many on the streets. As public facilities do not meet all their special needs, most people with disabilities are not fully engaged with the wider society. For these people, the Paralympics will truly be a success if there are long term benefits for them.

Editor:Zhang Yue