David Artz's Story
Hello, I’m David, the founder of StoryAidHelp. Over the years, I’ve been called many things — some hurtful, some funny — like “weird-looking,” “ugly,” and my personal favorite, “Baldy.” Yes, I’m bald and have a skin condition that I didn’t choose. But today, I’m genuinely grateful for this condition because it has shaped who I am and how I see the world.
Before sharing how this condition changed my life, I want to take you back to the very beginning — some memories are clear, others are fragments.
I was born in Tianjin, China, an industrial area plagued by pollution. At just 18 months old, I was left on the streets of that province. I don’t remember the day — was it rainy or sunny? Why my biological parents made that choice remains a mystery to me, but I’m no longer in their care. I hope someday to understand their reasons.
My earliest memories begin at an orphanage, where every day was a routine of survival. I recall feeling lost and embarrassed, not knowing which bus would take me “home” after school. Eventually, I met friends and settled into a rhythm: wake up, no breakfast, take the bus, endure long school days, and return to the orphanage. The schedule was harsh and unyielding.
When I was four, I was hospitalized for an unknown illness. After countless tests, doctors found nothing. That month in the hospital was the happiest I had known — free from abuse, free to be a child. Returning home was a shock to the system. Life’s hardships continued, and I found myself defending my siblings from abuse, often taking the blame and suffering in their stead.
Then one day, everything changed.
I was pulled from playtime — a rare and treasured moment when we could just be kids — and taken to a strange room with unfamiliar faces. I don’t recall what was said, but that moment marked the beginning of a new chapter.
Soon after, I was adopted and moved to the United States. I had no understanding of what adoption meant. My last day at the orphanage was bittersweet; I gave away all my candy to classmates and teachers, who, for the first time, smiled at me in a way I’ll never forget.
Arriving in America was overwhelming — a new language, new culture, new school. Two weeks later, I was placed in first grade. The road wasn’t easy; many kids were unkind, but over time, those who truly knew me came to understand and appreciate the person I am.
Starting StoryAidHelp in July 2022 was a turning point. Despite doubters and challenges, my mission remains clear: to build a community of compassion, support, and healing — a place where everyone’s story matters.
Life wasn’t always easy. At my foster home, food was scarce, often limited to a spoonful of tomato soup for dinner, while my foster parents indulged in lavish meals. Those experiences fuel my passion to create a better environment for others.
My journey to founding StoryAidHelp began from a deeply personal place. I have faced many challenges in my life that taught me the healing power of sharing stories. I realized that when we open up about our struggles, we not only help ourselves but also create connections that inspire hope and resilience in others.
Throughout my experiences, I saw a lack of safe spaces where people could share without judgment, where their stories could be valued and supported. This inspired me to create StoryAidHelp — a community where empathy and understanding take center stage.
My mission is simple: to build a platform where every voice matters and every story has the power to change lives. By sharing our journeys, we can break down isolation, foster healing, and build a network of support for all who need it.
I promise to continue building StoryAidHelp into a space filled with love, gratitude, and hope — a place where everyone is empowered to be their best selves.
Thank you for being part of this journey.