When Xueli Abbing was abandoned at an orphanage as a baby, she had no idea she’d grow up to be a model for Vogue. But, after a few interesting turns in her life, she made it as an international model at age 16. You never know where the world will take you, or how things will end up.
The orphanage named her Xue for “snow” and Li for “beautiful.” As an infant, Xueli was abandoned at the doorstep of the orphanage due to either how she looked, or because of China’s one-child policy. Regardless, the staff at the orphanage loved Xueli. It was only a short while there until a family from the Netherlands adopted the Chinese girl.
Xueli Makes it to Vogue
In some cultures, albinism is seen as a curse, or something to fear. In certain countries in Africa, those unlucky children born with albinism are sometimes killed for their bones, their hair, and their eyes. They are falsely believed to be medicinal or use or for witchcraft.
Witch doctors use their bones to make medicines as people believe these can cure diseases but of course this is not true, these beliefs are myths. I’m lucky I was only abandoned.
Abandoned children are those who are left without the care or support of their parents or guardians. This can happen for various reasons, including poverty, mental illness, substance abuse, or inability to care for the child. The effects of abandonment can be profound, leading to emotional and psychological challenges, such as feelings of rejection, low self-esteem, and difficulties in forming attachments.
In many cases, abandoned children may end up in foster care or orphanages, where they can receive some level of care and support. Organizations and governments often work to provide resources and programs to help these children find stable homes and support systems.
Addressing the needs of abandoned children is crucial for their development and well-being, and many advocacy groups focus on raising awareness and providing assistance to improve their circumstances.
Abandoned children face several common challenges, including:
- Emotional Trauma: Many experience feelings of rejection, abandonment, and low self-worth, which can lead to long-term emotional issues.
- Attachment Issues: They may struggle to form healthy relationships due to fear of being abandoned again, making it hard to trust others.
- Behavioral Problems: Some may exhibit behavioral issues as a response to their trauma, including aggression, withdrawal, or difficulties in school.
- Educational Disruptions: Frequent moves between foster homes or institutions can disrupt their education, leading to gaps in learning.
- Mental Health Issues: Higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders are often seen in abandoned children.
- Social Stigma: They may face stigma or discrimination from peers, which can further isolate them and affect their self-esteem.
- Lack of Support Systems: Without stable family support, they often lack guidance and mentorship, which are crucial for healthy development.
Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach, including therapy, stable foster placements, and supportive educational environments.
Communities can support abandoned children in several meaningful ways:
- Foster Care Programs: Establishing and promoting foster care systems can provide stable and loving homes for abandoned children, ensuring they have a safe environment.
- Mentorship Programs: Creating mentorship opportunities can help children build relationships with caring adults who can guide and support them through challenges.
- Counseling Services: Providing access to mental health services can help children process their trauma and develop coping strategies.
- Educational Support: Offering tutoring, after-school programs, and scholarships can help bridge educational gaps and promote academic success.
- Community Awareness: Raising awareness about the issues faced by abandoned children can encourage more community members to get involved, whether through volunteering, donating, or advocating for policy changes.
- Resource Centers: Establishing resource centers that offer information and support for families and children in need can help connect them with essential services.
By taking these steps, communities can create a more supportive environment for abandoned children, helping them to heal and thrive.