David Yu documents the resilience and gratitude of survivors like Yusuf, a Syrian refugee and earthquake victim. Inspired by Tzu Chi's mission, Yu continues to capture and share these moving stories of hope and kindness.
Facing Adversity with Gratitude
In December 2023, David returned to Türkiye’s earthquake disaster area to care for Yusuf, a long-time Tzu Chi aid recipient. Yusuf, a Syrian refugee and earthquake survivor, lost a leg and an arm in the war. Despite his hardships, he never lost hope and sought to contribute as a volunteer when encountering suffering.
Yusuf expressed deep gratitude for Da Ai TV, which broadcast his inspiring story to the world in March 2023, showing others in similar situations that there is always hope and limitless potential in life. Yusuf shared, "As long as there is love in your heart, even if you are someone who has received help, you have the chance to turn around and help others. I love helping people."
"Da Ai TV has produced many news stories from disaster areas. As part of our mission to capture the beauty of humanity, we will continue to interact with, follow up on, and care for those in suffering," David Yu shared. He also took the opportunity to remember the late Director Hui-ling Chen, who had worked with Da Ai TV. "Director Chen taught me so much, even though we only worked together for three days."
On February 19, 2023, Hui-ling Chen and two Taiwanese colleagues went to Türkiye to help document Tzu Chi’s disaster relief efforts. At the time, Chen was undergoing chemotherapy for recurrent cancer. Sadly, eight months later, news of her passing reached them, leaving many in sorrow.
"In the disaster area, she taught me how to use the camera to sincerely record the stories of human goodness," David recalled. Life is unpredictable, and farewells are not guaranteed, so it is crucial to cherish every moment and every person we meet. He is profoundly grateful for Director Chen’s lasting advice: "Keep your original intention alive, and capture truth, goodness and beauty." He has vowed to hold this message in his heart forever.
"The camera has no end; every refugee child in its view is not just an image but a recipient of Tzu Chi's enduring love and care." Every footprint tells a story. David remains committed to the original mission of Tzu Chi’s documentary volunteers, steadfastly walking the Bodhisattva path.