BEIJING: A young Chinese father has moved countless people online after he donated part of his liver to save his baby daughter.
The father, surnamed Shen, then doubled down on his loving and selfless act by staying at home in his rented flat and changing his own bandages post-surgery to cut costs.
Shen and his wife, surnamed Tao, who were both born after 2000, married in 2024 in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, in southeastern China.
They soon welcomed a daughter, Yiyi, who developed persistent jaundice after she was born.
After undergoing extensive examinations at multiple hospitals, the couple received devastating news: Yiyi was suffering from liver disease and cirrhosis caused by a genetic condition.
Initially, doctors recommended conservative treatment as her condition was not considered critical.
“At the time, the situation was not particularly bad,” Tao told the Xiaoxiang Morning Herald, adding that they used regular medication.
Despite their hopes, Yiyi’s health took an unexpected turn for the worse, leaving a liver transplant as the only viable option.
After a successful match, Shen underwent liver transplant surgery on August 13, donating a portion of his liver to his ailing daughter.
Tao said that the financial burden on the young family has been overwhelming.
Their medical expenses have already exceeded 100,000 yuan (US$14,000).
Shen continued working while Tao focused on caring for their daughter, but when her condition worsened, he made the difficult decision to quit his job.
He then juggled odd jobs to make ends meet.
To cut down on hospital costs, Shen discharged himself early and managed his post-surgery treatment in the family’s rented home.
Just half a month after his surgery, he is already back in Ningbo, working tirelessly to support his family.
Shen has been documenting their journey on social media under the name “Yiyi Fighting Monsters,” where he has gained more than 6,000 followers.
In his videos, he films himself changing his own bandages and shares heartfelt messages.
Yiyi is currently in good condition and is expected to recover soon.
“Doctors removed two drainage tubes yesterday, and the high-flow oxygen tube has also been removed,” said Tao.
“Today, they told us she is recovering very well and may be discharged next week,” she added.
The family’s ordeal has triggered an outpouring of emotional support and financial help on mainland social media.
One online observer said: “Baby, you have a father who loves you very much. Please get well soon.”
While another said: “Wishing this little family health and peace.” - South China Morning Post
