From limping legs to a classroom of hope

Mr. Le Van Hai, a person with a mobility disability due to the aftereffects of polio since childhood, not only persevered through adversity to live a positive life but also spread his strength and belief to the disabled community in Ho Chi Minh City through many meaningful activities.

The will to succeed

At the age of six, while many children were still carefree, running, jumping, and exploring the world with their healthy legs, Mr. Le Van Hai faced a major life event. He contracted polio, leaving him with lasting effects that caused him to lose the flexibility of his legs, resulting in a limp and forcing him to always walk on his tiptoes.

The teacher's childhood was not only marked by daily hardships, but also by feelings of inferiority due to curious stares or unintentional teasing from his peers.

"At that time, I was very sad and felt ashamed. But I thought the only way for me to overcome everything was to study hard, gain knowledge, and get a profession so I could take care of myself and later help others in similar situations," Mr. Hai recalled those days.

Despite his physical limitations, Mr. Hai's hands and mind were always diligently focused on his studies. He always worked harder than others, never missing a single class, and attentively listening to every word of his teachers' lectures. His thirst for knowledge and his spirit of overcoming difficulties were recognized and appreciated by his teachers and friends.

Teacher Hai (far left, standing) in the program "Mid-Autumn Festival for Brave Hearts"

PHOTO: TGCC

Community support

After completing his 12th grade education, like many of his peers, Mr. Hai also yearned to continue his studies and enter university. However, the financial burden on his family at that time became a major obstacle, and adversity once again challenged his resilience.

“At that time, I knew my family was struggling and couldn’t continue to support my education. I was forced to put my dream of going to university on hold, but it wasn’t giving up; it was finding a different path for myself,” Mr. Hai recalled, his voice choked with emotion.

Refusing to surrender to adversity, he persevered in seeking opportunities to learn and develop himself. Thanks to the encouragement and support of his teachers and friends, Mr. Hai enrolled in a free computer technician course at the University of Science, Ho Chi Minh City – a turning point that opened up a new and inspiring journey for this disabled teacher.

That turning point opened up a meaningful career path for Mr. Hai. Through diligence and a passion for learning, he quickly mastered the knowledge and professional skills, thus opening up a new direction for himself. Years of dedicated study helped him realize his dream of becoming a computer science teacher, sharing knowledge and confidence with many others.

Behind Mr. Hai's initial successes lies the support and encouragement of his family, friends, and respected teachers. From sincere advice and emotional support to practical material assistance, those around him have always been a great source of motivation, helping him overcome difficulties. In this journey, Mr. Nguyen Manh Lan left a particularly significant mark. The dedication, enthusiasm, and belief that he instilled in Mr. Hai became a great source of inspiration, giving him strength and determination on his path to maturity and the pursuit of his dreams.

And perhaps, Mr. Hai's greatest source of strength comes from his small, loving family. His kind and understanding wife, who shares in his difficulties, has become his steadfast companion, walking alongside him through life's joys and sorrows. Her encouragement and trust not only give him strength but also strengthen his belief in the path he has chosen. This small family has become a peaceful haven, allowing him to focus on his studies, work, and continued contributions to the disabled community.

Giving back value to the community

The year 2002 marked a memorable milestone in Mr. Le Van Hai's journey of community service. With a desire to share his knowledge and spread love to those in difficult circumstances, especially children and people with disabilities, he began offering free computer classes.

"I've always believed that the knowledge I have today is thanks to the help of many people around me. Therefore, I want to use what I've learned to support those less fortunate than myself. Disabled people will have more opportunities to find jobs, support themselves, and most importantly, become more confident in life," Mr. Hai shared about his journey to becoming involved in volunteer classes.

Mr. Hai's classes are not simply places to impart computer knowledge, but also places to nurture hope and instill confidence in his students with special needs. With his dedication, enthusiasm, and approachable teaching methods, Mr. Hai has helped people with disabilities access technology, opening up new opportunities in their studies and lives. Many of his former students later returned to assist him in teaching, a beautiful continuation of gratitude and sharing. However, due to a lack of funding, the classes have had to temporarily cease operations, leaving many who were once connected to this place with a sense of unease.

Beyond teaching, Mr. Hai actively participates in charitable activities for people with disabilities and underprivileged children. Annual programs such as "Loving Mid-Autumn Festival," "Sharing Christmas ," and "Loving Spring ," organized by him and his colleagues, have become heartwarming memories for many poor families and children with disabilities.

Each activity not only brings them joy but also helps them feel cared for by the community, giving them more confidence to overcome their insecurities and integrate into society.

And participate in the National Championship - Boccia.

PHOTO: TGCC

In addition, Mr. Hai also serves as a Boccia coach – a sport for people with disabilities – at the former Tan Binh District Cultural and Sports Center. Under his dedicated and passionate guidance, many young people with disabilities have improved their health, participated in competitions and social events, developed teamwork, and experienced the joy of victory.

Coach Hai has witnessed many of his students mature, even achieving impressive results at national championships, contributing to the development of disabled sports. Seeing his students progress and confidently assert themselves, he cannot hide his happiness and pride.

For Mr. Hai, the most meaningful thing is not just the medals, but also spreading a positive message to the community: people with disabilities are not a burden on society, but can live independently, develop their abilities, and contribute good values. He believes that everyone has their own value and deserves respect and love.

Through free classes and volunteer activities, the teacher hopes to instill confidence, eliminate feelings of inferiority in people with disabilities, help them realize their potential, and boldly pursue their dreams.

"Because I was once someone who received help, I understand the value of giving. I always believe that when a heart is touched by love, it will continue to spread that love to many others," Mr. Hai shared.

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Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tu-doi-chan-khap-khieng-den-lop-hoc-cua-hy-vong-185260523162036002.htm