I came from a remote mountain village.  We have very little income and that has been a great obstacle in my life.  In my fifth grade, Mom was in hospital and I needed to pay for school.  “I need RMB85 for tuition and 95 for the uniform”, I said to Dad.  Nervously Mom replied, “I am really fine.  I don’t think I need to stay in the hospital.”  Knowing that Mom needed the treatment, Dad lied about our financials, “Don’t worry, we've just received the government welfare payment.”

Later, Dad mysteriously went out of the hospital.  I followed him and found out that he went on to sell his blood for cash.  My heart broke.  Holding back tears, I ran back to the hospital.

Dad told me to go back home and take care of my siblings.  A few days later, Mom returned and Dad gave me the money for school.  Holding the blood money, it pained me to think about where it came from. 

I cannot help in overcoming the current circumstance of my life.  I shall persist and endure it all stoically.  One day, things will turn for the better.