A 24-year-old cancer patient in Foshan, China, made a heartfelt request for two hours of companionship through a meal delivery service. Known as ‘Little Li’, she is battling a rare blood cancer and felt increasingly lonely during her treatment.
After her request went viral on social media, numerous delivery riders stepped up to provide emotional support. The initial rider who fulfilled her request shared Li’s story with a local rider club, prompting others to volunteer their time.
Li’s brother is busy with an internship, and her father works overseas to cover medical expenses. As she underwent her fourth round of chemotherapy, the isolation weighed heavily on her. “Li does not have any family with her all the time,” noted one observer.
Riders adjusted their schedules to visit Li, bringing along thoughtful gifts like milk, snacks, stuffed toys, and books. Huang, a rider from Guangzhou, traveled three hours just to comfort her after hearing about her situation. He expressed his motivation: “I felt sympathy and empathy, so I wanted to visit her.”
Wang, a 60-year-old cancer survivor, also reached out by sending flowers and sharing words of resilience with Li. She reflected on how kindness can create connections among those facing similar struggles.
What began as a straightforward yet unique order evolved into a series of visits that provided much-needed consolation and assistance. Riders embraced the opportunity to spread community kindness in an unexpected way.
Li’s condition has stabilized since she was discharged from the hospital on April 20. The collective effort of these riders highlights the emotional struggles faced by cancer patients during treatment—and the power of community support in navigating such challenges.
