Luo Xuejuan, the first Chinese bearer of the 2008 global Olympic torch relay, is donating her torch to the China Siyuan & The Loving Torch Foundation, which is dedicated to rebuilding areas ravaged by the May 12 Wenchuan earthquake.
"This torch doesn't belong to me alone. It belongs to the nation," said the Athens Olympic 100-meter breaststroke gold medalist.
"I hope the flame of our loving hearts will kindle people's hope for beautiful lives."
Luo also took part in the disaster relief fund-raising event organized by CCTV (China Central Television) and donations organized by the sports circles.
One of the founders of the Siyuan & The Loving Torch Foundation, Luo has been involved with disaster relief work, aiming to provide aid to people affected by the earthquake, especially women.
(Xinhua News Agency June 2, 2008)