Help Zhou Xiang Guo Rebuild His Life After Tragic Fire

On March 30, 2024, Zhou Xiang Guo risked everything to save his village in Hunan province. When a devastating forest fire threatened his home, he did what any brave father and devoted community member would do—he ran toward the danger to protect those he loved. But tragedy struck. Alone on the mountainside, Zhou was engulfed by the flames and collapsed from his injuries. His wife found him unconscious in the fire’s aftermath, and their family rushed him to the hospital, where he spent over seven months fighting for his life.

Zhou’s injuries were catastrophic. With second- and third-degree burns covering his body, he endured multiple organ failures, severe infections, and excruciating pain. The damage was so severe that both of his legs had to be amputated along with some of his fingers. He lost the use of his left hand. He underwent nine surgeries in total. After nearly eight months in the hospital, he returned home—alive but completely dependent on his wife and daughter for his most basic needs.

A FAMILY THAT ALREADY ENDURED SO MUCH

Before this tragedy, Zhou was already carrying the weight of loss. Decades ago, during China’s One-Child Policy, his family was forced to give up their infant daughter. On March 26, 2024, our nonprofit Nanchang Project met Zhou and his family in their small rural home. This family was introduced to us by a Chinese-Canadian adoptee named Carolyne who had traveled to their city just weeks prior, trying to find her own biological relatives. We (Cassidy, Erin, Li, and Chinese helpers) listened to the Zhou family's heartbreaking story, and we provided a free DNA test to help Zhou search for his missing daughter. Just days after our visit, disaster struck. The man who had already lost so much now faced unimaginable suffering and is unable to walk, unable to work, and burdened by crushing medical debt.

Nanchang Project helper explaining the DNA test to Zhou just four days before the life-altering forest fire.

WHY WE NEED YOUR HELP

Zhou Xiang Guo’s medical expenses totaled more than $52,000 USD—an unfathomable sum for a farming family in rural Hunan, China. The full medical balance had to be paid upfront before Zhou could be discharged from the hospital. The family emptied their savings and borrowed money, which they have not yet repaid; they are now drowning in medical debt. More urgently, Zhou Xiang Guo still needs additional medical care to treat complications from his burns. His wounds have not fully healed. He cannot yet receive prosthetic legs. His wife and daughter care for him around the clock, lifting him into a wheelchair, feeding him, and tending to his wounds.

They refuse to give up on him. Neither will we.

THE EMOTIONAL TOLL OF RECOVERY

Each day, Zhou faces not just physical pain, but the emotional scars of his ordeal. The weight of losing his ability to work and provide for his family weighs heavily on him. He has expressed feelings of guilt and hopelessness, believing he has failed his loved ones. But there is a spark within him—a will to survive for his daughter, his wife, and his community. With your support, that spark can be reignited into a fire of hope.

Zhou's wife and daughter shared their emotional and physical hardships on Hunan TV. Daughter Zhou Na comforts her mother.

HELPING ACROSS BORDERS

Zhou Xiang Guo’s story is not just one of personal tragedy—it’s a testament to the power of cross-border goodwill. We are honored to stand beside this family during their time of unimaginable need.

Though separated by thousands of miles, we are united in our desire to help Zhou and his family rebuild their lives. It’s a reminder that when we come together, regardless of nationality, race, or background, we can make a profound impact on each other’s lives. Your generosity will help a family that has already endured so much.

In the midst of this tragedy, we are reminded that the world can be a place of warmth, care, and shared humanity—no matter where we come from.

YOUR IMPACT

Every donation will directly help Zhou receive continued medical treatment, afford prosthetic limbs, and regain some independence. His daughter Zhou Na told us she hears him weeping in secret at night, burdened by the thought that he can no longer provide for his family. But with your help, he can stand again. He can reclaim his dignity. He can heal.

Zhou Na has become her father’s strength. Despite the hardship, she continues to serve as his primary caregiver, sacrificing her own comfort and time. Though the weight of her father’s suffering is a heavy burden to bear, her unwavering love and dedication to him shine through every day. She says, "I would carry him forever if I could. He is my father, and I will never give up on him." Her devotion is a testament to the enduring power of family.

Let’s show them they are not alone.

Please consider donating and sharing Zhou Xiang Guo’s story. Together, we can help him find hope again. Thank you.

Zhou standing with Erin four days before his tragic accident.