Changing attitudes

Luo recalled that over two decades ago, matters concerning death were "taboo subjects" in the village, and considered unlucky.

Most villagers held the traditional core belief that the body should remain "whole and intact" after death, reflected in sayings such as "fallen leaves should return to their roots".

"If someone accidentally mentioned it, they'd get a stern look from the elders, or be scolded for being 'ill-omened'," Luo said. "Organ donation was unthinkable. The idea that 'removing parts means the body isn't whole in death' was deeply ingrained."

Zhou Jiaoying, 60, felt this backlash keenly.

Along with Xing and another villager Yan Liuying, she was one of the first villagers to break with convention.

When her husband learned that she had registered as an organ donor, his reaction mirrored that of almost the entire village. He said: "Have you gone mad? Being cut open after you're gone? That's not just disturbing the deceased, it's bringing trouble to the family!"

According to the donation procedure, besides the individual's signature, consent from the spouse and all immediate family members is required. Although Zhou had signed the agreement, the donation certificate could not be validated because her husband objected.

However, it was the simple act of making a blood donation that began to change villagers' minds about the concept of "giving" when it comes to the medical needs of others.

Around 2010, a mobile blood donation vehicle arrived in Gaotian, and as a village official, Zhou decided to lead by example and donate 400 milliliters of blood.

After making the donation, Zhou declared to the villagers she "didn't feel unwell". She also appealed to their sense of family, saying that making a blood donation meant future generations would be catered for through such acts of generosity.

In the villagers' mindset, "family matters" are paramount.

Hearing that this could leave a "safeguard" for their children and grandchildren piqued their interest and they participated voluntarily.

Zhou has now donated blood totaling 3.2 liters on eight occasions.

Yan Liuying, 52, has become a frequent blood donor and signed up for the hematopoietic stem cell donation registry.

Some didn't understand her decision, even her own sister called her "foolish". But Yan, a tailor who has never left the village, simply felt that "being able to help others is a good thing".

Gradually, the villagers realized that "giving" could protect their loved ones and also help strangers.