Rachel Grace Pinniger puts her items in order at her small crafts shop in Chengdu, Sichuan province, May 13, 2017. [Photo/VCG]

It was in 2011 that she came to Chengdu. Rachel first started writing a book for rural physicians and then launched her business by collecting handmade products.

To expand the market for her products, Rachel mobilized her overseas friends to buy the products as home decorations or gifts. She would also collect feedback and deliver constructive suggestions to local craftsmen, as well as helping them find training to become more professional.

Rachel knows that her efforts can relieve local families of financial and other burdens. "To benefit more people, it is better to make practical improvements to existing measures by cooperating with local authorities."

The elderly British woman will celebrate her 72nd birthday which falls on May 18. But she has never thought of retirement or neglecting her commitments in favor of reunion with her own family.