A man in China's central Hunan province has saved 12 people from drowning in the Xiang River in Changsha, Hunan’s capital city. His 12 rescues have taken place over the course of 40 years, starting in 1975. His actions have won him accolades from his community and the title of “hero.”

Since his family has earned a living from fishing for generations, the 54-year-old truck driver, Zhou Haiming, is a very good swimmer. He even saved two lives in one night in November 2010, since the drowning woman was pregnant.

Although what he does is not easy, Zhou has never publicized what he does. His feats didn’t become widely known until he accidentally broke his ankle while saving a drowning woman in the river.

Zhou’s neighbor said that Zhou truly is a hero, and that he also loves to help his neighbors when they are in need. A local citizen also praised Zhou's spirit and positive energy.