Treatment at crossroads of science and art

Li has brought her work to the stage many times, collaborating with those who resonate most deeply with it — children with ASD. By organizing these events, she creates a space for community connection. Her performances often incorporate her own artistic creations, which she describes as "a form of expression that allows them to convey their inner emotions."

"Often the feelings these children carry inside are very difficult for them to express through typical language," she said. "That is why some children with autism communicate through drawing, music or dance. These forms of expression help reveal their inner world."

Scientific research supports these approaches. According to the National Institutes of Health, gentle and non-invasive music-based interventions can help boost social engagement and ease anxiety in individuals with ASD.

Having organized events around the world, Li recalled a memorable trip to London where she cried as children performed her songs on stage.

"You can feel that even if a child is born with certain challenges, if they grow up in an environment of love and opportunity, they can still thrive," she said.

Zhu Linxiang, who has a PhD in Educational Psychology and is co-founder of the Caring for Autism Alliance, was also invited to London. She met Li through a mutual friend who shared her interest in autism. Zhu recalled a moving conversation during the trip.

"During one dinner in London, I gained an even deeper understanding of Dr. Li's perseverance," Zhu said. "As a teenager, she battled illness for years and had to withdraw from school for six full years, separated from campus life and her peers. Her only child was also miraculously carried to term at great risk to her own life … Because of these experiences, she approaches children who are often misunderstood or overlooked not only with professional knowledge, but with extraordinary gentleness and patience."

One of the performers in London was Duan Bowen, known as the "Autistic Piano Prince" — a gifted young musician who has won numerous awards. He sang Li's works alongside other performers and played the piano.

"My son is very passionate about music, so any performance makes him happy," said his mother, Sarah Cheng, who connected with Li through music teacher Chen Hexia, who co-organized the trip. "These performances boost his confidence and self-awareness while helping him develop professionally and musically."

"Through her collaboration with Chen, Li provided a platform for children to showcase their talents," she added. "Her work conveys the voices of children with autism — and the voices of their parents."

In addition to her efforts in the United States, Li is deeply involved in helping families in China. She noted that once diagnosed in the US, patients receive a "seamless chain of services," including special education and various benefits. China has been catching up, which she is glad to see.

"I genuinely hope to contribute to my country, especially if it means helping children who truly need support," she said. "Even if the impact is small, I want to do whatever I can."

She has collaborated with universities such as Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and Southern Medical University, organized professional forums and provided free medical services to local communities.

In October, Li received the World Harmony Distinguished Contribution Award from the United Nations. She now plans to bring groups of children with autism to a series of public performances in the coming year, including one at UN headquarters in New York in April.

Another major event is planned for Guizhou province in July, in collaboration with You Yanzi, founder of the Yan Gui Chao Rehabilitation Charity Fund Foundation, and Mei Er, owner of the Twelve Behind Spot scenic attraction.

Li explained that while some individuals with severe ASD may struggle with daily living, those with mild ASD can work, live independently and communicate without language barriers — they may simply be less social.

"Autistic children often have very narrow interests. When they focus on something — piano, singing or painting — they may excel beyond typical children," she said. She stressed the importance of encouraging and nurturing the talents of children with ASD.

Li believes that understanding these differences is essential to building a more compassionate society.

"Everyone has their own way of being in the world, and their thinking may differ from that of neurotypical people. They deserve our patience and empathy," she said.

bilinlin@chinadailyusa.com