Mr. Chou Chin-hua, founder of the Chou Ta-Kuan Cultural and Educational Foundation, expressed his appreciation for the charitable efforts of An-Shi International Mobile Business Center, which assisted the foundation with fundraising through telephone marketing. The funds raised would help more sick children and further promote stories that celebrate a love for life.
On April 2, the Chou Ta-Kuan Foundation held the event “Painting Through Hardship – Angel of the Mountains Cheng Mei-chu’s Autobiography Launch and Joint Exhibition with Indigenous Hero Chen Jing-sheng” at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The founder personally invited Elias Ek, former Examination Yuan President Hsu Shui-teh, Penghu County Government Secretary-General Hsu Wan-chang, Deputy Director Tseng Tsan-chin of the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Administration, and others to jointly present the Love of Life Medal and deliver speeches.
Cheng Mei-chu, known as the “Angel of the Mountains,” suffers from the rare congenital disease ichthyosis. Despite this, she has faced life with optimism and perseverance, steadfastly pursuing her dreams. Even before her art exhibition concluded, all of her paintings had already sold out. For her inspiring spirit, she received the “Global Love of Life Medal” awarded by the Chou Ta-Kuan Cultural and Educational Foundation.
As usual, Elias Ek attracted much attention upon entering the venue. Former President Hsu Shui-teh chatted warmly with him in English and even translated parts of his own speech into English for Elias Ek during the event. The former president’s friendliness left a deep impression on attendees.
During his speech, Elias Ek stated that loving life is extremely important. He emphasized the importance of finding one’s motivation and purpose in life. He explained that many people do not truly know why they apply for a particular job — perhaps because family members or friends suggested it, rather than from their own personal desire. He noted that award recipient Cheng Mei-chu was able to create such beautiful artwork because she simply wanted to paint; she had a genuine reason for doing what she loved. In closing, he expressed his hope that everyone could enjoy life and cherish the value of living.
