Feature: The Paralympic swimmer who plays video games with her feet

Lu Dong is playing Arena Of Valor. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

Initially, her appearances in internet cafes drew a lot of curious glances, which made her uneasy. However, it also led to generous compliments when others witnessed her remarkable skills.

HANGZHOU, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- As the other four players relished the crucial victory in an Arena Of Valor competition, they remained unaware that their teammate Lu Dong is a Paralympic swimming champion who plays with her feet.

At 32, Lu Dong has amassed a plethora of medals over her 19-year swimming career. Concurrently, she has enriched her daily life by diving into various hobbies.

Lu developed an interest in Arena Of Valor in 2017. Initially, her appearances in internet cafes drew a lot of curious glances, which made her uneasy. However, it also led to generous compliments when others witnessed her remarkable skills.

"They praised me after watching me play so well with my feet, which gave me a sense of accomplishment," Lu said.

Besides video games, Lu has dedicated an hour daily to piano practice for the past three years and has also showcased her prowess in both cooking and beauty makeup.

Lu Dong is showing her medals. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

Lu's exceptional performances in the pool caught the eye of Beijing Sports University in 2020, marking the beginning of her college journey.

Losing her arms in a childhood accident, Lu refrained from participating in P.E. classes to avoid injuries in her elementary school days, which made her physically and mentally vulnerable.

Her mother harbored concerns when Lu was recommended to join the provincial swimming team in 2004 when she was a second-year middle school student. Her mother was told the players were required to live independently in the training facility without parental care. However, Lu's resolve strengthened when she saw other players at her age managing their lives independently.

Lu did not disappoint her mother. She clinched two golds and two silvers in the youth group of the National Championship in 2005, earning a spot in the national squad.

Transitioning from a reticent girl to a national champion, Lu gained immense confidence. She no longer hesitated to wear T-shirts in summer or to tuck her sleeves into her pockets in winter.

"It was swimming that brought back the girl who always talked a lot," Lu said. ■