Photos Record Life and Death Struggle

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Monday, July 28, 2003

Photos Record Life and Death Struggle

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A photo exhibition of He Zhenzhen's works depicting the unforgettable battle against SARS is on show at the culture centre of the General Logistics Department of the People's Liberation Army until Tuesday.

The exhibition entitled "Focus on Special Moments" displays 100 photographs shot in four hospitals designated for the treatment of SARS patients, but mainly at the PLA 309 Hospital and Xiaotangshan Hospital.

He Zhenzhen, senior photographer at the PLA 309 Hospital, has closely eyed the unfolding life and death drama around her from March 16 when her hospital began treating 202 SARS-stricken patients. Braving the risk of infection, she entered SARS wards nine times and took over 3,000 photos. "I just want to record the history, not only the unknown heroes, but also the precious feeling of humanity," she said.

Her images faithfully record the fear, struggles and surprising optimism of medical workers and patients as they confronted SARS.

At the opening ceremony of the exhibition, many of those in the audience spotted themselves or their colleagues in the pictures.

"These photos take me back to those days of pain and joy, at the thought of which I cannot hold back my tears," said Jiao Hongwei from the PLA 309 hospital.

Every photograph has a moving story behind it. A series of pictures focuses on Yang Dongmei, who was desperately ill with SARS, but won her fight for life thanks to the care, dedication and love of medical workers.

The pictures capture the whole course of her recovery, from the careful and close contact with courageous nurses to Yang's smile as she was discharged from hospital. The expression in her beautiful eyes clearly changes from one of melancholy to sheer joy.

As she snapped photo after photo, He often did not know the identity of those she was recording for posterity. "Though I didn't know who they were under the thick protective clothes and masks, they are the most beautiful angels in my eyes," she said.

Like all of those working in the SARS hospitals, He also had to don layers of clothing, which made movement uncomfortable and awkward. But for her the risk and hardships were worthwhile. "Every moment is transient in history, so I must seize them," she explained.

China Daily news

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