Shandong centenarian celebrates 80th wedding anniversary

A 100-year-old woman from eastern China's Shandong province celebrated her 80th wedding anniversary on April 23, honoring the 80 years Wang Yonglan has spent together with her 96-year-old husband. The anniversary also happened to fall on her 100th birthday.

According to Wang's daughter-in-law, Li Xihong, the centenarian has led an ordinary life. She gets up at 6:00 a.m. every morning and drinks a cup of tea. She often plays mahjong or chess, and also has a fondness for fruit and other snacks.

"My grandmother could still go for a walk and take care of herself in her 90s," said Wang's granddaughter, Ma Huaiyu.

A few years ago, Wang was diagnosed with amyotrophia, the progressive atrophy of muscles. As a result, one of her legs became much weaker than the other. But, amazingly, Wang recovered her ability to walk after one year under the care of her family. Now she is able to walk around her house, sometimes even without the assistance of her children.

After 80 years of marriage, Wang still enjoys a good relationship with her husband, Ma Shouchun. Her eldest son, Ma Shanming, said that his father is a good-tempered person who he can hardly remember getting angry.

"My grandparents make us feel secure and warm," added Ma Huaiyu.

Two years ago, the couple started keeping diaries. They write down everything that happens in their lives, and they have also begun bookkeeping. Last year, Wang's great granddaughter was born, and the family now spreads across four generations.

On the occasion of their anniversary, Wang made a wish that she can live to be 104, so she can be with her husband when he celebrates his 100th birthday.