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Evolution of an Idea
In 2002, Chris Barclay, an American educator living in China,
created the China-U.S. Medical Foundation, a not-for-profit organization
based in the US. The creation of this foundation came as a direct
result of his experience in helping Zhao Chun Li, a young girl
afflicted with OI (Osteogenesis Imperfecta, or Brittle Bone Disease),
to receive medical treatment available only outside the PRC.
In 1999, Chris met Zhao Chun Li, whom at 20 years of age had
advanced OI. Chun Li began to suffer multiple fractures of most
of her bones beginning from the time she was two years old. Her
condition has since rendered her unable to attend school or move
freely on her own. There is no known cure for OI but there are
drugs (Bisphosphonates), currently available in the U.S. and Europe,
which can prevent future fractures and slow the advance of the
disease. Chris decided to sponsor Chun Li's trip to Los Angeles
Childrens Hospital for consultations by experts in the area of
pediatric bone diseases and seek treatment strategies for other
children affected in China. Chun Li now works at a beautiful
Yangshuo hotel near Guilin China called the Yangshuo Mountain
Retreat as the front desk supervisor and bookkeeper.
Chris has lived and worked in China for the last 15 years, creating
a profitable training and education company (ALTEC) with offices
throughout China. Through ALTEC's extensive network and contacts
with both Chinese officials and the expatriate community, we have
sponsored and worked on numerous charitable events and projects,
including those organized by The American Chamber of Commerce
in Guangdong, where Chris served as Chairman in 1998-1999.
This hands-on knowledge earned by working on Zhao Chun Li's case,
corporate charities and Chinese governmental contacts, has given
us a clear picture of how a not-for-profit foundation, based on
a clear mission and transparency, can assist those in receiving
the help they need.
Operating License
The Foundation is a U.S. Registered Non-Profit Corporation, approved
to raise and distribute funds within China. Its Chinese license
and tax-free status is currently pending.
Operating Procedures
The Foundation works within the laws and accounting procedures
of the People's Republic of China. We respect internationally
recognized practices as established for the Foundation by Mr.
Larry Lipsher, CPA. The Foundation is a transparent organization
with regularly audited accounts and reporting to sponsors and
outside contributing bodies.
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