Yao Ming Supports Quake Victims
Houston Rockets star Yao Ming might be in the U.S. recovering from a foot injury, but his heart is in China with the victims of the earthquake.
Although he didn't personally lose friends or family members in the quake, he has been wearing black during the past three days of official mourning, in solidarity with his fellow countrymen. But Yao's sympathies and initial financial donations haven't been without criticisms.
Yao made $55 million USD in sponsorships and salary, making him China's highest-paid celebrity, so his initial donation of 500,000 RMB (about $72,000 USD) didn't really make much of a dent in his millions. In response to comments on the blogosphere, Yao later upped his contribution to 2 million RMB (about $290,000 USD), but to Yao's critics, even that larger amount could have been more.
Other examples of famous citizens giving less money, but a greater percentage of their overall wealth, have been showcased by the media and well-received by the Chinese people.
One of the most dramatic is that of 92-year-old Zhuo Lin, the widow of Deng Xiaoping. She gave her life savings of 100,000 RMB because she couldn't sleep at night after hearing about the earthquake. Even some poor migrant workers have given equivalent of one-month salary or even greater amounts to help the victims.
While Yao's gift might have a few critics, in the past he's been hailed as a philanthropist for his financial contributions and charity work. Last October, Yao missed practice, resulting in $20,000 fines, in order to attend the Special Olympics Opening Ceremonies in Shanghai.
He has also supported many charities, including the Chi Heng Foundation, Project Hope, the Red Cross, and China Youth Development Foundation, and has been a vocal advocate of HIV/AIDs awareness.
As one of China's biggest celebrities, Yao has the additional pressure of representing China worldwide. His actions don't just interest those in China, but also basketball fans around the globe, which can be a daunting task for the 27-year-old athlete.
Yao wears this mantle of fame quite well on his massive 7 foot 6 inch frame. He's been a strong role model, successfully resisting many of the pitfalls that have destroyed the careers and lives of other celebrities.
However, as a result of his fame, Yao is held to an even higher standard than most of his celebrity-peers. In a sense, the public wants to see him play the part of an ambassador or role model, as much as it wants to see him playing basketball.
Even though his earthquake donation might not be a huge percentage of his total salary, his condolences have the potential to provide more relief than his actual financial contributions.
It's possible that Yao will have a special media-guided tour of the earthquake ruins after he returns to China in mid-June to raise the spirits of those mourning their losses. But with the Olympics fast-approaching, leading the Chinese basketball team to a gold medal might be an even more heroic way for Yao to bring hope to his country.