The family were given renewed hope last year when Maoqin’s mother went to a local hospital for a checkup and heard about a similar case to her daughter, along with a new way of treating her condition.

According to Li Guishan, an orthopedic doctor at Huaxia Hospital who performed on the girl, her surgery went well, although it may take one year for her to be able to stand independently and move around. The surgery replaced the girl’s stiff joints, and now a variety of physical therapies are required for follow-up treatment.

With the help of the hospital, which offered to perform the surgery before payment, an online fundraising campaign kicked off the first day post-surgery to cover medical expenses.

That’s where the paintings come in.

Three paintings have been sold in less than a week, in exchange for 800 yuan. Some strangers have been wiring money before Li even finishes the paintings.

“It’s really encouraging to be overwhelmed with such kindness, which is sure to help her stand up sooner,” said Li, the father.

Li Hanyi contributed to this story.