Chinese firefighter suffers brain damage after using own gas mask to save girl

A Chinese firefighter suffered severe brain damage after giving his gas mask to a little girl trapped during a residential fire in Hebei province earlier this year.

Heroic sacrifice: Back in March, 30-year-old Ku Xuehui faced a life-altering choice during a rescue mission while battling a residential fire triggered by an exploded electric vehicle. Responding to a desperate plea from a resident, Ku entered a burning building to save a young girl trapped on the third floor. To ensure the girl’s safety, Ku gave her his own gas mask, leaving himself exposed to toxic fumes.

Agonizing consequences: While Ku appeared unharmed following the incident, he later exhibited symptoms of cognitive decline. Ku’s wife, Sun Lei, shared they decided to visit a doctor after Ku started struggling with articulation, movement and cognitive function. The diagnosis would later reveal severe brain damage, with Ku’s mental capabilities reportedly reduced to that of a 3-year-old’s.

Waiting for a miracle: Sun, who documented their challenging journey on social media, has remained resilient while monitoring her husband’s recovery.

Their 12-year-old son, Ku Bozun, has also been assisting in his father’s rehabilitation since the summer holiday. Hopeful for a miraculous recovery, the boy has been patiently teaching his father to read and count using the same books they used for him when he was younger.

Community rallies behind a hero: As Ku battles through rehabilitation, a large community on Chinese social media have expressed admiration and well-wishes, closely tracking every step of his progress through Sun’s video diaries. Ku’s firefighting squad has also rallied around their fallen comrade, sending members daily to assist with his care.