SHANGHAI: The story of a devoted couple from central China, where the husband has lovingly cared for his severely paraplegic wife for 25 years, has touched the hearts of millions on social media throughout mainland China.
The couple live in Pingdingshan, Henan province. In 2001, 36-year-old Jia Fang suffered a horrific fall from a cliff while riding a pedicab, resulting in paralysis from the chest down, as reported by Henan TV.
Since that life-altering moment, her husband, Li Junliang, who is one year older than Jia, has been her constant carer, dedicated to looking after her around the clock while also raising their son and daughter, who were just 10 and 13 years old at the time of the accident.
Li takes on all responsibilities for Jia, who is unable to care for herself.
In the initial years, Li would turn Jia’s body every two hours to prevent bedsores. Over time, he adjusted this to every four hours, meaning he has gone without a full night’s sleep for the past two decades.
He often carries Jia to a wheelchair and takes her outside to bask in the sun and enjoy the fresh air, according to the report.
Li regularly massages Jia’s limbs to prevent muscular atrophy.
It remains unclear what profession Li pursues to support his family.
Their children have since grown up and started their own families. The walls of Li’s home are adorned with certificates of achievement from when his children were students, hinting at the care and dedication he provided during their upbringing.
“My husband works tirelessly and worries about every aspect of our family. His hair has turned completely grey, while most of mine is still black,” Jia shared with the media.
“Junliang, thank you for taking care of me for 25 years!” Jia expressed gratefully.
Li responded, saying: “You are my wife. You have given birth to our son and daughter and contributed so much to our family. No matter the challenges we face or how tired I become, I will care for you for another 25, 35, or even 45 years.”
In response to his wife’s heartfelt gratitude, Li humbly acknowledges her, expressing that their home is truly complete only with Jia by his side after she gave birth to their two children. Photo: Baidu
In response to his wife’s heartfelt gratitude, Li humbly acknowledges her, expressing that their home is truly complete only with Jia by his side after she gave birth to their two children. Photo: Baidu
He emphasised that his actions are a fulfilment of the promise he made to Jia on their wedding day: “Home is complete only with your presence,” Li told her then.
“I believe I am the happiest person in the world; I’ve married the right man,” said Jia.
A neighbour, who was unnamed in the report, expressed admiration for Li’s unwavering devotion to his wife.
“Many men would find it difficult to endure caring for a paraplegic wife for long. Few exhibit such commitment as Li has for all these years. Moreover, their home is clean and tidy – he truly is a remarkable man!” praised the neighbour.
“His loyalty and kindness will surely touch the heart of God, and his family will be blessed for a long time,” commented one online observer.
Another person remarked: “I am moved by this kind-hearted man. Very few would do what he has done. This woman is truly fortunate!” - South China Morning Post
