Grandpa Jiang arrived at the leprosy sanatorium in 1954 and is the only survivor of the first group that came here. At the sanatorium, they often talked about their childhood, about the mountains and waters of their homeland, about the people and things, vaguely feeling their nostalgia for home. After discussing it as a group, the sisters decided to help them fulfill this wish. After multiple coordinations, Grandpa Jiang finally saw his longing realized: returning home to briefly reunite with his loved ones and see the landscapes of his childhood once again. It has been 70 years since he left his home!
70 years that finally froze on March 24, 2024. Today, with a clear sky and a gentle breeze, the sun shines, and the sky also rejoices at the return of Grandpa Jiang. At eight in the morning, his nephew and grandson came to pick him up by car to take him back, and they will return to the sanatorium three days later at noon. Although it was only three days, the elderly man felt completely satisfied and full of happiness.
Today is the second day of his return, and the elderly man is still radiant and full of energy, talking with other elders about what he has seen and heard at home: the old houses have been demolished, there are only apartment buildings, the road is right at the main entrance, there is a school, and you can also hear someone running and playing a trumpet; I thought it was an army, but I was told it’s recruits in training (recruit training camp).
As a volunteer, seeing the satisfied smile of the elderly man, I also feel deeply satisfied.
The value of service lies in this.
Left Image: Elderly Jiang suffered disabilities in his face, hands, and feet due to leprosy infection.
Right Image: The relatives of Elderly Jiang take him back home to alleviate his nostalgia.
