A heartbreaking story from Sichuan, China, has touched many hearts: a father digging his 2-year-old daughter’s grave himself as she battles a terminal illness, hoping to help her slowly adjust to the cold earth.
Zhang Liyong, 24, from Jiuzu Yan village, is facing a painful reality. His daughter, Zhang Lei, was diagnosed with congenital anemia at just 2 months old. Despite countless blood transfusions and treatments, her condition worsens, while the family’s limited income—Liyong earns about 2,500 yuan a month—can no longer cover mounting hospital bills exceeding 140,000 yuan.
With little Lei’s fragile health leaving her isolated—other children avoid playing with her—her parents find solace in small moments like fishing or playing with their puppy. Doctors have said stem cell treatment could save her, but neither parent is a match. They hope their soon-to-arrive second child, due July 7th, might be.
Tragically, even if a match is found, the costly stem cell transplant, around 12,000 yuan, is out of reach. Overwhelmed by grief, Liyong dug a grave for his daughter, hoping she could gradually become accustomed to it. A photo of him lying in the freshly dug grave with Lei went viral, inspiring millions on social media.
The story sparked an outpouring of sympathy and support online, with many moved to tears by the father’s love and sacrifice. For many, it deepened their appreciation for their own families and the preciousness of life.
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