The episode ‘Children who draw miracles’ will be aired in episode 485 of KBS’ ‘Companion’, which airs at 6pm today (7th).
There are children who struggle with poverty, disease, and disability and hold on to hope even when they feel like giving up.
Although the children walk a little slower than others, they do not hesitate and overcome despair step by step.
We meet the story of children who never lose their dreams and the efforts of a family who believe that miracles will come true as long as there is hope.
Every Monday, there is a child who goes to the hospital instead of school to receive inpatient treatment. jaeyuda is a 6th grade elementary school student. On the opening day of his third year of elementary school, Jae-yu felt his entire body losing strength. I thought it was just growing pains,but my legs became weak,I fell frequently enough,and the days when I couldn’t walk increased.At the hospital I visited after feeling the severity of my condition,I was diagnosed with a rare,incurable disease called ‘dermatomyositis juvenile (*a disease that causes chronic inflammation in the muscles and skin of various body parts)’. Jae-yu was hospitalized for 7 months and received maintenance treatment with immunosuppressants, which are also used as anti-cancer drugs. they say that in order for Jae-yu to go to school like other children and maintain a normal life, he needs to undergo both drug treatment and rehabilitation treatment for the rest of his life… Due to his limited circumstances, his mother Hyeon-ju (47 years old) only burns in the scene. Even though he makes a living by sewing, his workload has decreased, and Jae-yuS father, Eung-sik (age 54), was recently diagnosed with posterior longitudinal ligament ossification (*a disease in which the spinal ligaments harden like bones). Jae-yu is very worried that his parents will overdo it with his medical expenses. Friends of the same age walk to school in 30 minutes, a distance that would take 10 minutes. What Jae-yu wants is for his mom and dad not to worry about money. And it is a future in which people can attend school as consistently as they do now.
![[동행] ‘Children who draw miracles’ – Queen Economy Queen](https://www.queen.co.kr/news/photo/202412/423919_165597_3939.jpg "[동행] ‘Children who draw miracles’ – Queen Economy Queen")
Sihwan was born prematurely at 24 weeks and 5 days, weighing 870g. Sihwan (9 years old), who had to be placed in an incubator as soon as he was born, underwent 15 major surgeries that required all his blood to be drained due to hydrocephalus, necrotizing enteritis, and sepsis due to cerebral hemorrhage. Dad Changmo (42 years old) and mother Gyeongsuk (42 years old) had to raise Sihwan with a tightrope mentality. When I see Sihwan going to school,the only word that comes to mind is miracle. Of course, even now, with the help of an assistant teacher for school activities, the only things Sihwan can say after taking classes are yes and no, but he is making steady progress, even if it is indeed slow.I started walking upright two years ago, and these days I can walk about ten steps on my own. Si-hwan, who brought the couple to tears by saying he was the father seven years after he was born, recently started saying he was the mother… All of this was the couple’s effort. My father and mother have consistently provided me with rehabilitation treatment and have also been doing rehabilitation training at home. Even when the special calculation period ended and they were unable to receive a reduction in medical expenses, the couple devoted their efforts to Si-hwan’s surgery and treatment. Although the cost of treatment remains a debt, the desire to help Si-hwan to a level where he can survive in the world is growing.A couple who works hard day and night while watching the miracle that Sihwan draws. As long as Sihwan is there, the couple cannot be frustrated.
KBS1TV’s ‘Companion’ is a program that reflects on how big a role one person’s small interest can play in the amazing changes brought about by the warmth of the community in our society.
Economy queen Reporter Kim Kyeong-eun Photo KBS1TV ‘Companion’
How can families and communities support children’s mental health during challenging times?
Interview: The Power of Hope in Adversity
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone, to our special segment on stories that inspire. Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with dr. Minsoo Lee, a child psychologist and advocate for children’s mental health, who has been closely following the inspiring stories depicted in the KBS documentary series ”Companion.” Dr. Lee, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Minsoo Lee: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to talk about such impactful stories.
Editor: In today’s episode titled “Children Who Draw Miracles,” we’re introduced to youngsters facing tremendous hardships like poverty, illness, and disabilities. What draws you to these stories of hope amid despair?
Dr. Lee: These stories resonate deeply with me as they highlight the resilience children possess. Despite facing challenges that woudl overwhelm many adults, kids like Jae-yu—and numerous others—exhibit a remarkable ability to dream and hold on to hope. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit.
Editor: Absolutely. Jae-yu, as a notable example, is a 6th-grade student who has been struggling with serious health issues but remains hopeful. How do you think such experiences shape a child’s psychological development?
Dr. Lee: experiences like Jae-yu’s can be both traumatic and transformative. On one hand, chronic illness can lead to anxiety or feelings of isolation, but on the other hand, facing these adversities can build resilience and empathy. its essential for caregivers and families to nurture that hope and provide a supportive surroundings, allowing these children to thrive despite their circumstances.
Editor: Speaking of families, the episode portrays the role of family support in these children’s lives. Can you elaborate on the importance of community and family when navigating such challenges?
Dr. Lee: Family and community are crucial.They serve as the backbone for emotional support, encouragement, and stability.When children see their families believe in miracles and possibilities, it instills a sense of hope in them. This collaborative effort—between family, friends, and healthcare providers—can greatly influence a child’s outlook and coping mechanisms.
Editor: It’s engaging how the show captures these dynamics. Does the media portrayal of such stories play a role in public perception and advocacy for children’s issues?
Dr. Lee: Definitely! Media has the power to shape narratives and raise awareness. Shows like “Companion” not only humanize these struggles but also inspire collective action. When people see these children’s determination, there’s a greater chance they’ll feel compelled to advocate for better resources and support systems for children facing similar challenges.
Editor: That’s a vital point.As we watch these stories unfold on screen, what can viewers do to help foster hope and resilience in their own communities?
Dr. Lee: I encourage viewers to get involved—whether it’s thru volunteering, fundraising for children’s health programs, or simply offering emotional support to families in need. It begins with simple acts of kindness. Moreover, advocating for policy changes that prioritize mental health and support for families can also make a significant difference.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Lee. Your insights shed light on the intersection of hope, resilience, and community support. Before we wrap up, is there a final message you’d like to share with our viewers?
Dr.Lee: Absolutely. I’d like to remind everyone that while the challenges these children face are immense, their stories of perseverance teach us that hope can flourish even in the harshest conditions. Let’s all strive to be champions for these young fighters. Together, we can help draw miracles.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Minsoo Lee, for your time and wisdom. We look forward to seeing more powerful stories like those in “Children Who Draw Miracles” and the impact they can have on all of us.
Dr. Lee: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure!