On May 16, after a cell collection procedure lasting five hours, Zhou Wenkai successfully completed a hematopoietic stem cell donation. He became ShanghaiTech’s first donor and Shanghai’s 716th, offering a lifeline to a patient in need.
Zhou Wenkai, a Class of 2024 undergraduate from the School of Information Science and Technology (SIST) and current master’s student, joined the China Marrow Donor Program five years ago on his coming-of-age day. In 2024, he received a call from the Shanghai Red Cross, informing him that his preliminary screening matched a two-year-old child with a blood disorder.
“My parents have always respected my decisions, and they were incredibly supportive when I chose to donate stem cells,” Zhou said. With encouragement from his family and university, he diligently cooperated through follow-up tests and comprehensive physical examinations. Zhou persevered despite experiencing soreness and fatigue from four consecutive days of preparatory injections prior to the donation.
On the day of the donation at Huashan Hospital, Wu Qiang, the university’s deputy party secretary visited Zhou in the hospital room, conveying the university’s gratitude and commending Zhou for his donation. Zhou’s donation not only kindled hope for the patient but also reflected ShanghaiTech students’ commitment to the society. His actions embody his responsibility and compassion, setting a powerful example for students and faculty on campus. Accompanying Wu were representatives from Student Affairs Office, Youth League Committee, the SIST, as well as officials from the Shanghai and Pudong Red Cross Societies and teachers from Zhou’s alma mater, Shanghai Jinyuan Senior High School.
Now back on campus, Zhou reflected: “Five years ago, I thought saving a life was the coolest thing. Now, I’ve fulfilled that dream. I wish the patient a smooth recovery.”