With bright, sunny smiles on their faces, some of these children may look no different from others at first glance, but due to heart conditions, they require long-term treatment and care. To help these children gain more learning opportunities, Taiwan High Speed Rail specially invited parents and children from the “Republic of China Children with Heart Disease Care Association” to take a one-day trip to Taichung on February 7.
Taiwan High Speed Rail’s Nangang Station Manager, KU Li-an, presented a symbolic large-format ticket today (3rd) to Ms. CHIN Fang-ling, Chairperson of the “Republic of China Children with Heart Disease Care Association.” During the ticket presentation ceremony, the association arranged for the children to perform a sign language song. With beautiful melodies paired with expressive hand movements, the children earnestly showcased their enthusiasm and vitality, expressing their gratitude while also demonstrating the results of their regular practice.
Due to health and safety concerns, children with heart conditions often hesitate to participate in outdoor activities. Coupled with the long-term financial burden of medical expenses on their families, economic pressures are heavy, leaving even fewer opportunities for them to travel. Thanks to the support of the high-speed rail, this group of children who are vulnerable in terms of health were able to go outdoors and enjoy parent-child bonding time just before the start of the new school term.
Participating members happily expressed, “We’re really looking forward to this trip, and we’re grateful for the sponsorship from Taiwan High Speed Rail. Some of us are so excited that we might not be able to sleep the night before departure.” Others joked, “Thank you, High Speed Rail, for giving us the chance to experience a life of technology. We hope that in the future, we can also follow the spirit of the high-speed rail in helping others and give back to society.”
Chairperson CHIN Fang-ling stated that the “Republic of China Children with Heart Disease Care Association” is formed by a group of dedicated parents of children with heart disease. Through the parents’ hard work and efforts, combined with social resources, they aim to raise public awareness and concern for children with heart conditions. She also expressed deep gratitude to Taiwan High Speed Rail for leading by example and helping them broaden their horizons.
Nangang Station Manager KU Li-an said that to fulfill corporate social responsibility, Taiwan High Speed Rail will continue to engage in public welfare activities via its train services to assist disadvantaged groups, conveying care and warmth. This ensures that the high-speed rail not only provides travel services but also serves as the best mode of transportation that continuously spreads warmth across the country.