"The torch relay transfers not only the Olympic spirit but the confidence, bravery and hope of our country," said Chen Wancheng, a volunteer in quake-relief work and also a torchbearer the Olympic flame was relayed in Wuhan, central China's Hubei province on Saturday.

As an excellent doctor from Wuhan Third Hospital, the 55-year-old Chen threw himself to the quake-relief work in Sichuan and just came back from the quake-hit areas to join in the Olympic torch relay.

After the Sichuan earthquake occurred, Chen volunteered to help quake-affected people and became the oldest member of Hubei's first medical rescue team.

He and his colleagues rushed to inflicted areas day and night with more than seven tons of medicines and instruments.

During the fifteen days in the quake-hit areas, Chen and other doctors completed over 20 operations and saved more than 20 lives in five counties with frequent aftershocks and landslides.

"Compared with Tangshan earthquake in 1976, this time the rescue and relief work have been carried on timely and smoothly. Besides, the torch relay also attracts the worldwide attention. All these show the powerful national strength of our country," he said.

"Although we have a long way ahead, I do believe that with the spirit of unity, China will have a bright future and the Olympic Games will be successful!" Chen added excitedly.

Wuhan special policeman Meng Fan was also selected as a torch carrier. After the earthquake, he and his colleagues in arms climbed numerous mountains and walked in quake tremors for more than 10 hours to the disaster-hit areas. They successively rescued many local citizens from ruins.

"I will transfer the love and support from all Chinese in the torch relay to the quake-affected people, encouraging them to build new homes."

Wu Tianxiang, who has devoted himself to helping the poor for more than 30 years, said, "We should pass on this spirit and encourage quake-hit people to stand up and resume the hope of life."

The 64-year-old Wu also flied to Sichuan with tents and medicines to help rescue and carry goods. Besides, he organized people to visit those injured ones receiving treatment in a hospital in Wuhan.

(Xinhua News Agency June 1, 2008)