Congenital heart disease is one of the most common birth defects. It is especially prevalent in high-altitude regions.

Tamdrin, 16, was diagnosed with congenital heart disease, when a team from the Chinese Red Cross and the General Hospital of Armed Police Forces visited her hometown in Maizhokunggar county in the Tibet autonomous region. Her father agreed to let her go to Beijing after finding out the seriousness of the disease and how they were going to treat her. Tamdrin is one of five Tibetan children receiving free treatment at the General Hospital of Armed Police Forces in Beijing.

Tamdrin's hands are cold because of intravenous drops. Before the operation, Tamdrin's father held her little hands tightly to warm them. [Photo/Xinhua]