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#Videocrux - Paraplegic Toufic builds mammoth matchstick models Paraplegic Toufic builds mammoth matchstick models
A stint in prison left Toufic with a burning passion building mammoth models of the Titanic, the Eiffel Tower and other well-known monuments out of matchsticks.
Matchstick models created by Toufic
Toufic lives in a house like any other, near the Lebanese town of Bikfaya. But hidden in the basement, there's an extraordinary collection. Models of ships and even religious monuments all made from matchsticks. The centerpiece is a reproduction of the Titanic, weighing several dozen kilos.
Obsession that became a therapy
Toufic's strange passion started in prison. In 1997, he was locked up for killing the man who had shot him and left him a paraplegic. He wanted to while away the long hours in his detention center, and the only thing he had in quantity was matchsticks. It's an obsession that became a therapy.
Many people admire Toufic's collection
This activity has really given me back my morale. It's let me integrate myself among other people again. Usually when someone's in a wheelchair, he wants to fit in, say hello to people, look at them, but some people turn away because of the disability. Because of this hobby I feel like everyone else, like I'm standing on my legs again.
Hoping to build more matchstick models
His latest project is a seven-meter high Eiffel Tower. He's being financed by a patron, visitors come to watch him work, and the Guinness Book of Records has now been in touch.He's already built the biggest matchstick boat on record and he's hoping to beat a few more.

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