The touching story of how an 11-year-old created a groundbreaking invention to help her grandfather with Parkinson’s... and is now a millionaire

The bond between grandparents and grandchildren is often impossible to describe in words – pure love that sparks only good feelings. In many cases, that bond shapes character and personality, leaving behind only positive outcomes. That was the case with Lily, an 11-year-old girl who came up with an invention to help her grandfather, who had Parkinson’s disease and frequently spilled his drinks.

From a simple idea to worldwide success

What was Lily’s idea? A plastic cup that wouldn’t tip over and was comfortable to hold. She made her first prototype with moldable plastic, and over time created a ceramic version at a local pottery workshop.

An extremely useful invention that has succeeded

Lily’s father used the cup for a while and, impressed by how well it worked, asked her if she wanted to produce it. That decision sparked an adventure that took them to Jingdezhen, a city in Jiangxi province, China, known as the “Porcelain Capital.” There, they were able to refine the design, find a manufacturer, and prepare for large-scale production.

The Kangaroo Cup became a reality – a mug with easy-to-grip handles that truly serves its purpose. Lily, now in her 20s, is a role model for children everywhere, an inspiration for creators of all ages who, in trying to help a loved one, ended up designing an object of enormous usefulness that’s now thriving as it aims to be the perfect cup.

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