Source: China Daily

09-25-2007 17:08

Cong Fei had lived a simple life. His apartment was only 58 square meters whereas since 1994, he used nearly all his earnings from commercial performances more than 3 million yuan (US$375,000) helping 178 children in poverty-stricken areas pay their tuition fees.

In February, 2006, Cong was selected as a person who moved the whole nation in a special national programme organized by China Central Television. According to the judging panel, "Cong spent all his time helping children in need without any reservations."

Cong's quick popularity came from a fact that he has practiced philanthropy and altruism beyond what he could afford, according to CCTV "Tonight's Guest" host, Lu Xiaobo.

When SARS hit China in 2003, performances had to be canceled and Cong had no income. He borrowed 170,000 yuan from friends and relatives to pay for the children's tuition fees.

CCTV hosts Zhu Jun and Wang Zhi said they did not believe Cong's stories before they met him. "I've seen philanthropic people, but have never seen a person like him," said Wang Zhi, the host of CCTV's "Face to Face."

Both Zhu and Wang said they could not help crying when they interviewed Cong. Wang said he was supposed to interview a person rather than express his sympathy as a journalist.

"But I didn't know why the tears just came out of eyes," he said, adding that his first tears came out when Cong told him he had to beg for a loan by kneeling down before someone.

Wang called Cong's story a fairy tale in ethical realm. "How could there be such a person? How could he have done all those things? You've seen selfless people, but never one of his kind. You've seen brave people, but never one of his kind," Wang said.

Cong Fei was diagnosed with stomach cancer in May, 2005. His condition deteriorated in February,2006 despite chemotherapy. By mid-March, he was put on an intravenous drip as he could not take food.

On April 11, he told his parents that he wanted to donate his corneas.

One day before his death, he asked doctors to stop treatment. "It's worthless to treat me now. Don't waste money on me. Please give the valuable medical resources to people in real need," he said.

On April 20, 2006, Cong lost his year-long battle with cancer but even in his death he has helped others.

Less than one hour after Cong's death, Yao Xiaoming, executive chairman of Lions Eye Bank of Shenzhen, collected Cong's corneas, which was his last wish.

"Cong has passed away, but his spirit, his selfless devotion to other people, especially to children, will live forever," Yao said.

Two blind girls, aged 9 and 16, became the beneficiaries of Cong's final donation. They underwent operations on Friday.

"It was our son's last wish to donate his corneas," said Li Caifeng, Cong's mother. "When I see the recipients of my son's corneas, it is like I see my son again."

 

Editor:Zhang Ning