Hospital schools bring hope and health amid adversity

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When the COVID-19 situation improved in Beijing and she was able to resume offline classes, she only distributed one set of watercolor pencils for four children to use together, so they would learn to share. She also asked them to properly dispose of the pencils, papers and garbage after use.

"These children spend most of the time with their parents, who tend to spoil them because of their long-term hospitalization, so they don't understand some norms on certain occasions," she said.

The parents certainly appreciate the schools. One, whose child attended the school at Beijing Children's Hospital, said: "The children were lucky to be able to meet a good teacher at their most difficult time. The hospital schools provide a loving harbor for these children between long, dull treatments. At first, my boy was too shy to turn on his webcam but now he's very happy taking the classes. He said he feels happy learning and chatting with the others."

The teachers maintain contact with most children when their treatment ends and they return to regular life.

"There is no happier thing than seeing them recover quickly and reintegrate into society," Li said.

She recently received a message from parents who sent a photo of their child's midterm exam results with a note that said: "A good start. A fresh start. Thank you, teacher."

Not all parents are willing to share updates, though. Shi said some sever all connections related to the treatment once their child has been cured and has returned home because they don't want to recall such difficult times.

"They have been through too much and have too many painful memories. Once the child returns to a normal environment, the parents take the initiative to cut off all connection to the illness, including the teachers. I fully understand them," she said.

"I am happy they have survived such a difficult time and returned to a stable life. The children must just head on straight into their new lives."