“Dear Xiao Man, today marks the 188th day of my illness. Over these days, I’ve gone from a coma to regaining consciousness…” At the New Year’s gala hosted by the Rehabilitation Department of Nanjing Zijin Hospital, patient Xiao Guang took out a “letter of gratitude” he had asked his doctor to write, using it to confess his love to his wife and recount the arduous journey they had endured together.

Patient Xiaoguang confessed his love to his wife, who has been caring for him. Photo by Pei Rui.

Although his finger function has not yet recovered, patient Xiaoguang still put the gift on his wife. Photo by Pei Rui.

At the gala, patients crafted handmade toys with the assistance of medical staff. Photo by Pei Rui.

Six months ago, Xiaoguang suffered brain damage in an accident and lost the ability to care for himself. During his rehabilitation, his wife, Xiaoman, never gave up; she stayed by his side every step of the way, patiently accompanying him and working closely with his therapists to guide his recovery. When Xiaoguang learned that the hospital was hosting a festive gathering, he eagerly signed up—and secretly discussed with his therapist his plan to surprise her. At the event, after confessing his love to his wife, he even took the time to tie a red bracelet around her wrist. Though it may seem like a simple gesture, for Xiaoguang, being able to perform such an action is a clear sign that his fingers have recovered remarkably well.

At the celebration, the “performers” presented programs meticulously prepared over many days. To express their gratitude to the medical staff, patients whose hand function had not yet fully recovered crafted numerous handmade toys with the assistance of caregivers. Amidst cheerful laughter, the patients proudly showcased their own creations, engaging in friendly competitions. Accompanied by moving musical melodies, a song performed by two rehabilitation therapists added warmth and vibrancy to the atmosphere. The event was rich with highlights and reached one thrilling climax after another, with every face beaming with joyful smiles. Though these patients face physical challenges, thanks to the attentive care of the medical team at Zijin Hospital, they are steadily making progress on the road to recovery.

Director Qi Yuliang of the Rehabilitation Center at Nanjing Zijin Hospital told a reporter from the Yangtze Evening News that the hospital conducts monthly activities in various formats to help patients maintain a positive mindset and foster compassionate, patient-centered care, thereby boosting their motivation for rehabilitation training. This approach of positive guidance serves as an effective model, both in future recovery efforts and in everyday life.