In a world often filled with fleeting connections and superficial relationships, stories of unwavering commitment and deep love stand out as beacons of hope. One such tale that has recently captured the hearts of millions across China and beyond is that of Li Juxin, a 39-year-old man from Qingdao in Shandong province, who has devoted the past 12 years to caring for his blind wife, Zhang Xiying. This heartwarming narrative, first reported by the Shandong-based Qilu Evening News, has gone viral on social media, earning Li the affectionate title of “the most devoted husband.”
It highlights not just personal sacrifice but the profound resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Their story reminds us that true love transcends challenges, offering inspiration in an era dominated by individualism. Li and Zhang’s bond began in a typical yet promising manner, evolving from a chance meeting into a lifelong partnership built on mutual respect and shared dreams. Born and raised in the coastal city of Qingdao, Li Juxin grew up in a modest family, learning early on the values of hard work and family loyalty.
He pursued a career in the automotive industry, eventually opening his own car repair shop, which provided a stable foundation for his future. Zhang Xiying, on the other hand, came from a similar background, with a gentle demeanor and a passion for simple joys like cooking and spending time with loved ones. The couple met in the mid-2000s through mutual friends at a local community event, where their shared sense of humor and down-to-earth personalities quickly sparked a connection.
By 2008, Li and Zhang had tied the knot in a modest ceremony surrounded by family and close friends. Those early years of marriage were marked by the kind of happiness that many couples aspire to—a blend of everyday routines and small milestones. They welcomed a daughter into their lives shortly after, which brought even more joy and purpose to their household. Li often recalls those days as “heavenly,” filled with laughter, family outings to Qingdao’s scenic beaches, and building a secure home together.
Zhang was the heart of the family, managing the household with efficiency while supporting Li’s growing business. Their daughter, now a teenager, became the center of their world, with both parents prioritizing her education and well-being. Financially, things were stable; Li’s repair shop thrived, allowing them to save for the future and enjoy occasional luxuries like weekend trips. Life seemed perfect, a testament to the couple’s compatibility and dedication. Li has shared in interviews that Zhang’s kindness and optimism were what drew him to her initially, and these qualities only deepened their relationship over time.
They navigated the challenges of parenthood together, from sleepless nights with a newborn to celebrating her first steps. Community members in Qingdao remember the couple as approachable and generous, often helping neighbors with small favors. This period of bliss lasted for several years, setting the stage for the unimaginable trials that would test their bond. It was a time when their love was unburdened by external pressures, allowing them to focus on nurturing their family unit. Little did they know that fate had a different path in store, one that would demand extraordinary strength from both.
The onset of Zhang’s illness in 2013 shattered the idyllic life they had built, plunging the family into a nightmare of uncertainty and despair. What began as subtle symptoms—blurred vision and occasional headaches—quickly escalated into a diagnosis of a severe eye disease. Doctors in Qingdao initially hoped for a treatable condition, but tests revealed a progressive retinal disorder that threatened permanent vision loss. The family was devastated; Zhang, who had always been independent and active, now faced the prospect of a world without sight. Li, ever the pillar of strength, rallied immediately, vowing to exhaust every possible avenue for treatment.
The couple embarked on an arduous journey through hospitals and specialists across Shandong province and beyond. They consulted ophthalmologists in major cities, seeking advanced therapies and experimental treatments. The financial toll was immense; over the next year, the family spent nearly 500,000 yuan—equivalent to about US$70,000 at the time—on medical consultations, surgeries, medications, and follow-up care. This sum represented years of savings and forced Li to take on additional work at his shop, often working late into the night. Despite their efforts, Zhang’s condition worsened steadily. By mid-2014, specifically in June, she had lost her vision completely, leaving her in total darkness.
Li described this transition as moving “from heaven to hell,” a poignant reflection of the emotional devastation they endured. Zhang, once vibrant and self-assured, struggled with depression and frustration in the initial months. Simple tasks like preparing meals or playing with their daughter became impossible without assistance. The psychological impact was profound; Zhang felt like a burden, questioning her worth in the family dynamic.
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Li, however, refused to let despair take hold. He promised her, with tears in his eyes, that he would remain by her side for the rest of their lives, no matter the circumstances. This pledge became the cornerstone of their renewed commitment. To support Zhang’s adjustment, Li learned Braille alongside her and modified their home for safety—installing handrails, rearranging furniture, and using audio devices for daily navigation. Their daughter, though young, showed remarkable maturity, helping where she could and providing emotional comfort to her mother.
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The blindness not only affected Zhang physically but also strained family finances further, as medical debts lingered. Yet, through it all, Li’s determination shone through. He balanced his work at the repair shop with full-time caregiving, ensuring Zhang attended rehabilitation sessions designed for the visually impaired. These classes taught her mobility techniques using a white cane and adaptive skills for independence.
Community support began to emerge subtly, with neighbors offering encouragement, but the core strength came from within the family. Li’s role evolved from husband to constant companion, guide, and motivator. He encouraged Zhang to vocalize her feelings, fostering open communication that prevented resentment from building. This phase of their story underscores the raw human element of illness— the fear, the grief, and the slow rebuilding of normalcy. By late 2014, while the pain remained, glimmers of adaptation appeared, setting the foundation for the devoted care that would define the next decade.
The 12 Years of Unwavering Devotion and Daily Care
Over the past 12 years since Zhang’s blindness in June 2014, Li Juxin has transformed into an exemplar of selfless love, managing every aspect of his wife’s life with meticulous care and endless patience. His routine is a testament to dedication, beginning at dawn and extending well into the evening. Each morning, Li wakes early to prepare breakfast, describing meals to Zhang so she can savor them fully—detailing textures, aromas, and flavors to compensate for her lost sight. He assists her with personal hygiene, dressing, and grooming, always with respect and dignity, ensuring she feels empowered rather than dependent.
Mornings often include a gentle walk in their neighborhood, where Li guides her with verbal cues and a supportive arm, helping her stay connected to the world around her. As the day progresses, Li’s caregiving extends to household chores and emotional support. He handles all cleaning, laundry, and shopping, often involving Zhang by asking for her input on decisions, like menu planning or decorating their home. Their daughter, now in her teens, contributes where possible, but Li shoulders the primary responsibility.
Afternoons might involve reading newspapers aloud to Zhang, discussing current events, or listening to audiobooks together—activities that keep her mentally stimulated. Li has mastered the art of descriptive narration, painting vivid pictures of their surroundings during outings, from the blooming flowers in spring to the crashing waves of Qingdao’s coastline. This verbal companionship has become a vital part of their intimacy, turning potential isolation into shared experiences.
Evenings bring family time, where Li ensures Zhang participates fully in meals and conversations. He has adapted their living space extensively: voice-activated devices for music and news, tactile markers on appliances, and a structured daily schedule to provide security. Financially, Li’s car repair business has sustained them, though he turned down higher-paying jobs that would require travel, prioritizing proximity to home. Challenges arise, of course—moments of frustration when Zhang feels overwhelmed or when Li’s exhaustion shows—but he counters them with affirmations of love.
“I promised her I’d never leave,” Li has said, emphasizing that his commitment stems from genuine affection, not obligation. Over these years, Zhang has regained some confidence, learning to use public transportation with assistance and even joining local support groups for the blind. Their marriage has deepened, with Li noting that the trials have forged an unbreakable bond. This era of devotion isn’t without its hardships; medical check-ups continue, and emotional lows persist, but Li’s consistency has allowed Zhang to thrive in her own way. Their story illustrates how love, when active and enduring, can turn profound loss into a narrative of triumph and mutual growth.
In 2020, as a way to give back amid improving family circumstances, Li joined the Lantian Rescuing Team, a local public welfare organization in Qingdao focused on emergency response and community aid. With Zhang’s full encouragement, he participates in training and volunteer missions, such as disaster relief simulations and public safety drills. This involvement not only fulfills Li’s desire to contribute to society but also brings pride to Zhang, who cheers his efforts from home. It marks a positive evolution in their lives, showing how personal resilience can extend to communal good. Through it all, Li’s care remains holistic, addressing Zhang’s physical, emotional, and social needs with unwavering focus.
A Viral Sensation Inspiring Millions Worldwide
The story of Li Juxin and Zhang Xiying exploded onto the social media scene in early September 2025, following its initial coverage by the Qilu Evening News. What started as a local feature quickly amassed millions of views, shares, and comments across platforms like Weibo and Douyin in China. Netizens hailed Li as the “most devoted husband,” flooding posts with messages of admiration and tears. One viral video clip, showing Li guiding Zhang through a park while describing the scenery in detail, garnered over 10 million views within days. The narrative resonated deeply in a society grappling with modern pressures on relationships, offering a counterpoint to stories of divorce and indifference.
International media soon picked up the tale, with outlets like the South China Morning Post and NDTV amplifying its reach globally. Comments poured in from users worldwide: “This is true love in action—restores my faith in humanity,” wrote one. Another shared, “You take me to experience the changes of the four seasons,” quoting Li’s own words about his descriptive walks with Zhang. “Love conquers all difficulties. I am beginning to believe in love again,” echoed a third, capturing the emotional impact. The virality sparked discussions on marriage, disability rights, and caregiving, with many praising the couple’s daughter for her role in the family.
For Li and Zhang, the attention has been overwhelming but positive. They have received messages of support, including offers of aid from well-wishers, though the couple emphasizes that their joy comes from within. Li hopes the story encourages others facing similar challenges, promoting empathy and perseverance. As of September 14, 2025, the buzz continues, with hashtags trending and celebrities sharing the post. This phenomenon underscores the power of authentic human stories in the digital age, reminding us that acts of kindness can inspire global unity.
In reflecting on their 12-year journey, Li Juxin and Zhang Xiying’s tale is more than a personal anecdote—it’s a universal lesson in enduring love. From marital bliss to heartbreaking illness, and through years of devoted care to viral fame, their resilience shines. Li’s promise, kept faithfully, proves that commitment can illuminate even the darkest paths. As they move forward, with Li’s volunteering and Zhang’s quiet strength, they embody hope, proving that true partnership weathers any storm.