Grandfather Turns Makeup Blogger to Save Grandson’s Life: A Story of Love and Courage

In a world where social media is filled with glamorous influencers, one man’s journey stands out not for fame, but for love. Meet Zhu Yunchang, a 72-year-old grandfather from China who became an unlikely beauty blogger to save his grandson’s life.

His story of sacrifice, determination, and unconditional love has inspired millions. Let’s dive into this heartwarming tale of family, hope, and the lengths we go to for those we cherish.

A Grandfather’s Love Knows No Limits

Zhu Yunchang isn’t your typical social media star. While most beauty bloggers are young, trendy, and focused on makeup tutorials, Zhu’s videos show something deeper: a race against time to fund life-saving treatment for his grandson, Xiao Jingyan.

At 72, Zhu spends hours applying lipstick, mascara, and skincare products on camera. His shaky hands and wrinkled skin contrast sharply with the colorful makeup palettes he uses. But behind every swipe of blush or dab of foundation lies a story of desperation, hope, and a grandfather’s promise to never give up.

A Devastating Diagnosis Changes Everything

Six years ago, Zhu’s world shattered when his grandson, Xiao Jingyan, was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) at just five years old. SMA is a rare genetic disease that weakens muscles, making it hard to move, eat, or even breathe. Doctors warned the family that Xiao might not live past 18 months.

But Xiao defied the odds. With round-the-clock care from his family, he kept fighting. However, his survival came at a steep cost. The only medication that could slow his disease—a drug called Spinraza—had to be imported from the United States. Each dose cost 700,000 yuan (about $100,000). For a retired grandfather living on a pension, this price was unimaginable.

Selling Everything for a Chance at Life

Xiao’s parents sold their home, emptied their savings, and borrowed money from everyone they knew. Still, it wasn’t enough. Zhu refused to stand by and watch his grandson suffer. “I couldn’t let my grandson die because we couldn’t afford the medicine,” he said. “I had to do something—no matter how strange or difficult.”




That’s when Zhu stumbled upon an unexpected idea: beauty blogging.

From Pensioner to Makeup Artist: An Unlikely Journey

Becoming a makeup influencer isn’t easy for anyone, let alone a septuagenarian man with no experience in cosmetics. Zhu faced ridicule, doubt, and countless technical challenges. But he was determined to learn.

His first step was reaching out to a makeup company for free samples. When they laughed at him—saying, “Old people can’t sell makeup”—Zhu didn’t give up. Instead, he visited local cosmetic stores, politely asking staff to teach him about products. He took notes on terms like “serum,” “contouring,” and “eyeliner,” practicing until he could explain them confidently.

“The first time, I didn’t understand anything,” Zhu admitted. “But I kept learning, like a student studying for an exam.”

Going Viral: The Power of Social Media

Zhu started live-streaming on Douyin (China’s version of TikTok), applying makeup while sharing his grandson’s story. At first, viewers tuned in out of curiosity. A grandfather wearing bright lipstick? It was unusual, even funny. But as people learned why he was doing it, their laughter turned to tears—and support.

His videos quickly went viral. Followers donated money, bought products he promoted, and shared his posts. Within months, Zhu became a sensation, earning enough to cover some of Xiao’s medical bills.

But fame came with a downside. Critics accused Zhu’s daughter of “using” her father for sympathy and profit. Hateful comments flooded his streams: “Stop embarrassing yourself!” or “This is just a scam!”

Zhu ignored the negativity. “I don’t care what strangers say,” he said. “My only goal is to keep my grandson alive.”

Small Victories and Ongoing Struggles

Thanks to Zhu’s efforts and public pressure, China added SMA drugs to its national insurance list in 2021. This reduced the family’s costs significantly, but treatment remains expensive. Zhu continues blogging, determined to cover any gaps.


Today, Xiao is 11 years old. He uses a wheelchair and relies on machines to breathe, but his grandfather’s love gives him strength. “When I see Grandpa on TV, I feel proud,” Xiao says. “He’s my hero.”

A Day in the Life of Grandpa Zhu

So what does it take to be a senior citizen makeup blogger? Zhu’s routine is anything but ordinary:

• Research: He spends mornings studying new products online, jotting down their benefits.
• Practice: Before going live, Zhu tests makeup looks in front of a mirror, often smudging eyeliner or over-applying blush.
• Live-Streaming: For 3–4 hours daily, Zhu applies makeup while chatting with viewers. He cracks jokes, shares childhood stories, and reminds fans to “stay kind.”
• Family Time: After streaming, Zhu sits with Xiao, helping him with homework or watching cartoons.

Why This Story Matters

Zhu’s journey isn’t just about makeup or money—it’s a lesson in resilience. Here’s why his story resonates globally:

• Love Overcomes Pride: Zhu embraced a role many would find humiliating, proving that love outweighs fear of judgment.
• Age Is Just a Number: At 72, Zhu learned new skills, showing it’s never too late to make a difference.
• Social Media for Good: While online platforms often highlight vanity, Zhu used them to save a life.

What’s Next for Zhu and Xiao?

Zhu vows to keep blogging until Xiao can “walk like other children.” Advances in SMA treatments offer hope, but the road is long. For now, the grandfather-grandson duo treasures small joys: watching sunsets, eating sticky rice cakes, and dreaming of a healthier future.

“If my grandson can walk one day, I’ll close my eyes in peace,” Zhu says. “Until then, I’ll keep fighting.”

Final Thoughts: The Beauty of Sacrifice

In a society obsessed with youth and perfection, Zhu Yunchang redefines beauty. His wrinkled face, coated in foundation and lipstick, symbolizes something far deeper: the lengths we’ll go to for family.

So the next time you scroll past a makeup tutorial, remember Zhu. Behind every brushstroke might be a story of struggle, hope, and love—proof that true beauty isn’t about how you look, but what you’re willing to do for others.

Watch Grandpa Zhu’s Journey

You can follow Zhu’s heartfelt videos on Douyin. Be warned: keep tissues handy. His updates—whether he’s testing glitter eyeshadow or singing lullabies to Xiao—are guaranteed to touch your soul.