Peng Qinglin, a food delivery driver from Hangzhou, China, has become an online sensation due to his heroic rescue of a drowning woman and his subsequent modesty. Peng was making deliveries on his electric bike when he noticed a woman struggling in the Qiantang river. Without hesitation, he jumped from a 12-meter high bridge to save her. Although he sustained compression fractures from the plunge and needed hospital treatment, he resumed his delivery duties after police and lifeboats completed the rescue.
Peng’s bravery and humility in the wake of sudden fame has endeared him to millions on Chinese social media. Videos of him in hospital, surrounded by commendations for his heroism, have gone viral. He has received cash rewards totaling 180,000 yuan ($25,200) from local authorities, his employer, and his hometown of Sangzhi county. Additionally, several companies from his hometown offered tens of thousands of yuan in cash rewards. His employer also offered him a free university education.
Despite the accolades and rewards, Peng maintains a humble stance, deciding to donate most of the money to local schools. “I want to donate… so that the children can study well and spread the spirit of helping others from a young age,” he said. This sentiment echoed his statement to state broadcaster CCTV, “I just want to be an ordinary good person.”
Internet users have flooded online platforms encouraging him to accept the rewards. Many believe that rewarding acts of kindness can contribute to elevating societal moral standards. Despite his modesty, Peng’s courage and selflessness have become an inspiring example for many across the nation.
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