Abby Brammell

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7pGXAPNz7Uendofvid
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Liu Wei was only 10 years old when both his arms were electrocuted while playing a game of hide-and- seek in China. Both limbs were amputated and although initially he was distraught about his condition, he soon realized he had a choice to make.

"For people like me, there were only two options. One was to abandon all dreams, which would lead to a quick, hopeless death. The other was to struggle without arms to live an outstanding life," says Liu, now 23.

His dream was to be a pianist and his outstanding life includes an appearance on China's Got Talent and an unforgettable performance playing the soulful "Marriage D'amour" with his two feet on the piano.

Of course, contestants overcoming adversity is a frequent subtext of talent showcases, but Wei's accomplishment is extraordinary. He told judges that teaching himself to play piano with his feet was "hard" and that he endured cramps and abrasions, but he also says his mother inspired him and he wanted to make his parents proud.

Even watching it on YouTube, you cannot believe that Liu is able to play so seamlessly, expertly and movingly using only his toes. The stunned audience, many in tears, rose to a standing ovation at the conclusion of his performance. The judges called Wei "a reached man" and bowed in respect to his achievement.


source :tonic

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