Cai Lei and Duan Rui's love story didn't start romantically.
They are not the kind of couple who are attracted to each other at first sight. Instead, they met each other on a blind date. The blind date, however, became a bond between the two souls which have never been separated since.
After Cai and Duan got married, each of them prospered in their careers. In addition, they were blessed with a lovely son, the fruit of their love. However, fate didn't keep favoring this young couple. As their happy marriage was only heading into its second year, Cai was diagnosed with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, ALS is a neurodegenerative disease that causes gradual muscle atrophy and loss of strength, eventually leading to paralysis. However, throughout the disease, the patients still maintain clear consciousness until death.
Faced with the diagnosis, Cai painfully filed for divorce from Duan. Knowing that people with ALS would gradually lose their ability to take care of themselves, he did not want to be a burden to Duan.
However, Duan said, "Isn't being a husband and wife to be each other's backbone? From now on, I will be there for you."
Duan not only gave her promise in words but also fulfilled it in action. To save Cai's life, Duan quit her job as the managing partner of an accounting firm and devoted herself to live broadcasting for charity. Her goal was to raise funds to support her husband's cause of research and development of ALS drugs.
Although many people supported her, haters on the Internet often said unpleasant things. Cai's heart ached as he watched his wife work through the night and still got slandered. But Duan, as she said, has made herself a tough shield for her love.
When asked what she would do if Cai was no longer with her, she only said one word, "Forever".
The story of Cai and Duan has touched countless people, showing the power of perseverance, dedication and love. And today, their story continues...
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