Tang holds the hand of his wife at a hospital in Chengdu, on Feb 18, 2017. [Photo/VCG]

The full text of the love letter

Dear my wife Xianrui, I miss you so much!

We have been married for more than 60 years. In the 60 years, we have spent every day as newlyweds. We love each other. Our neighbors envy us. We have six filial children. We are satisfied and happy...

You suddenly fell ill, and our son sent you to Chengdu. I did not know where you were and looked for you everywhere, from many hospitals in Meishan to places we have usually been to. It was so dark, so cold, but my heart was even colder. I felt like I was like an orphan. What would I do without you?

My head was spinning. People usually recall many things when they lose hope. In the past 60 years, you lighted me up like a candle but sacrificed yourself. I dragged you down. I am ashamed and heart-broken! I am selfish. I did not love you in a better way, so you fell ill. Here I apologize to you wholeheartedly, my wife, I'm sorry!

I got a general physical examination yesterday. The doctor said that I am healthy. My health is due to your hard work and selfless contribution to me in more than 60 years. I thank you from the bottom of my heart! I thank you for a lifetime!

My wife, you have to be strong in sickness. You believe human's strong will can defeat illness, combat all adversities and miseries. My wife, you have to be strong, strong! We will surely go back home hand in hand!

My wife, be strong. You know it's morning when you wake up from a bad dream! The sky will be very blue. The trees will be very green. Water will be very clear. We will walk hand in hand among the bustling crowd.

Your husband, Tang Junwen

Feb 16, 2017