Our Early Work
In 2001, our work began in Henan Province in response to the alarming discovery of the AIDS pandemic in rural central China. Between 2002 and 2004, Golden Courage responded to the crisis by developing the Eastern Treasure Emergency Shelter which helped over 300 children under Dr. Lu's supervision.
We also secured over 30 practitioners to do free HIV testing and found long-term medical care for 22 HIV+ children. In addition, we tested over 1000 people for HIV and continue to be part of this testing program. GCI arranged for 16 adoptions in five provinces and is still part of this program, which is now headed by the Office of Women and Children.
Golden Courage International is named for one the children affected by the death of her family and the devastation of her community. Dr. Lu was determined not to allow children like Golden Courage to lose hope for their future. Currently, as a direct result of the strong financial and social support from GCI, Golden Courage has completed her secondary education, and she has been accepted into Henan Nursing School. She says: "I want to be a doctor. Just like you, Dr. Luke. That's my dream, remember?"
The title "Dr. Luke" was one often used in the AIDS-affected villages to describe this person who suddenly appeared in their lives. Translated, Dr. Luke means: "The healer who brings hope."