Chen Binqiang, a middle school teacher, discusses her mother's battle with Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer’s disease has deprived this mother of her memory and ability to care for herself, but the love from her son hasn’t faded. Chen Binqiang brings his mother with him everywhere he goes.
He usually fastens the two of them together while riding his motorbike, to make sure his mother stays safe. And the cloth he uses to tie her is the perfect witness of the bond of love between mother and son. It’s the one his mother used to hold him as a baby 38 years ago.
Chen Binqiang said:"My mother did her best to raise me. Now, in return, I will do my best to take care of her."
Chen Binqiang lives in Pan’an County in South China’s Zhejiang Province. His father died in a traffic accident when he was only eight years old. His mother Chen Yueguang raised their three children all alone. Six years ago, Chen Yueguang was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Relatives of the family suggested she go to a nursing home.
Chen Binqiang said:"She replied that she would stay with her son. I could not hold back my tears when I heard those words. So I decided that I would always keep her around and take care of her, whatever it takes."
Chen Binqiang works as a teacher in Lengshui township, a good 30 kilometers away from where they live. The school has assigned him a dorm to reduce travel on workdays. Chen is always running between the teaching building and the dormitory.
On this timetable, he alternates classes with caring for his mother by helping her eat, bathe and use the bathroom.
From 5a.m. to 9p.m., looking after her takes most of Chen Bingqiang’s time outside of the classroom.
Chen admitted that it was hard at first, but now the nursing work has become a natural part of his life. Chen Binqiang said:"She may not recognize me or remember my name, but she must know that this person is good to her. That is enough for me."
For Chen Binqiang, his mother is now like a child who needs his love and care. And he is willing to give all he has.
Have you been absent during your children's childhood?