Finding Happiness Against the Odds – Chinese

We tend to take a lot of things for granted in our lives. A stable job. A loving family. Even the ability to speak and be understood. Wesley has never had such luxuries. Born with cerebral palsy, Wesley has not only had to deal with the physical challenges that such a crippling condition brings, but he’s also had to endure a childhood filled with abuse from his own parents.

Unable to cope with the difficulties of raising a child with cerebral palsy, his parents often took their frustrations out on a young Wesley, rather than providing the support, love, and affection a child with Wesley’s disabilities would need.

His only ray of hope came from his grandmother, who after discovering the abuse he had been forced to endure from his parents, took him from them to live with her. Yet, the kindness he received from his grandmother would prove to be an all-too-brief respite, as circumstances would once again force Wesley to end up with his parents.

Forced to undergo a surgical procedure that his parents had hoped would enable him to walk normally, Wesley ended up losing the ability to walk completely. Where he had once been able to manage a few steps prior to the procedure, Wesley now found himself unable to walk. His parents, frustrated that their son became an even bigger burden after the procedure, subjected him to even worse physical and even psychological abuse.

In 2007, Wesley’s life took a dark turn, and he attempted suicide not once, not twice, but 4 times. Fortunately, he found salvation in Jesus, which gave him the strength to then find his true calling: to become a figure of inspiration to those who believe themselves to be without hope. He hopes that by sharing his story, he can inspire others, regardless of their circumstances, to never give up hope, and live life on their own terms.