Man lauded for cradling 82-yr-old mother in arms

Images of Zhang Yongkang, a 51-year-old man from Yongkang, Zhejiang province recently went viral online, Qianjiang Evening News reported on Sept. 21. A passerby photographed Zhang talking with his 82-year-old mother by the riverside. What makes the photo special is that Zhang is holding his mother in his arms. The photo has been shared and reposted many times.

"A dutiful son," is the nod of affirmation that many netizens have given to Zhang since the photos went viral. Nevertheless, Zhang feels somewhat odd, because the pictures don't show him doing anything out of the ordinary.

Zhang's mother began to suffer from a cardiovascular disease in 2014. She spent a lot of time in bed with her legs bent. Soon, it became impossible for her to straighten her legs at all. Thus, walking became an impossible task.

Since then, taking care of his mother has become a primary focus of Zhang's life.

"My mother cannot walk or talk," said Zhang. All he can do is cradle her in his arms and hold her hands. "This may give her sense of security," Zhang reflected.

While he is holding her, Zhang tells his elderly mother about changes in the city, and stories about his work and daily life. Although his mother barely responds, Zhang feels certain that she is appreciative of the emotional connection.

"My mother touches my hand with her thumb occasionally," said Zhang. The small motion reminds him his childhood, when he used to lie in his mother's arms, enjoying the warm feeling of security.

Zhang works for the postal system. He is tasked with inspecting 23 branches every day, but he always finds time to devote to his mother. In order to better look after her, he even moved homes.