For over twenty-one years, Chen Si has spent every weekend on the Yangtze River Bridge in Nanjing, the largest in China. As the city flows at his feet, he watches silently, ready to recognize those who need help. It has no uniform, nor an official mandate. Yet, with the power of kindness alone, he saved almost 500 people who were about to commit an extreme act.
Help for those who feel alone
It all started in December 2003, when Chen, a simple trader originally from Suqian, decided to spend the weekend on the most famous – and most tragic – bridge in China. Every Saturday and Sunday, from eight in the morning to sunset, he patrols the kilometre-long structure on foot or by motorbike. He recognizes someone in difficulty from small details: a hesitant step, a gaze fixed on the water, a posture broken by the weight of thoughts.
When he approaches, he neither imposes nor commands. Speak in a calm tone, listen, and often begin with a simple but powerful phrase: “Tell me what makes you sufferSometimes that kind voice is enough to bring a person back from the edge of despair.
Years ago he also found himself in difficulty
Chen Si’s strength also comes from his own experience. Years ago, in a dark moment in his life, a stranger helped him. That episode affected him so deeply that it pushed him to dedicate his life to others. Since then, he continues to offer support not only on the bridge, but also afterwards: he accompanies those he saved to find a home, job or financial help and never stops staying in contact with them. His approach is simple and human. According to him, sometimes a little encouragement is enough to change everything. And every life saved is a small victory against indifference.
From anonymity to international fame: the documentary about him
Over the years, Chinese and international media have come to know him as the “Angel of Nanjing.” His story moved the world and became the heart of the documentary Angel of Nanjingdirected by Jordan Horowitz and Frank Ferendo. The film, awarded at numerous festivals, tells the story of the quiet strength of a man who does not seek glory, but only to remind those who suffer that they are never alone.
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