A COUPLE in Shenzhen, already parents to two daughters, recently welcomed quadruplets, expanding their family from four to eight. The quadruplets, all girls, were born a month prematurely on Aug. 23 and are currently receiving care in the neonatal intensive care unit (ICU) at Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital. The infants’ conditions have been improving, and their mother, identified only by her surname Li, is gradually recovering. The family faces significant financial challenges due to the cost of raising six children. The quadruplets require a month of treatment in the ICU, estimated at 200,000 yuan (US$28,200). Although 80% of this cost is covered by medical insurance, the remaining amount is still a burden for the family. The father surnamed Chen said they discovered the pregnancy in January and learned it was quadruplets in March. After much consideration, they decided to continue with the pregnancy. “We were happy and excited at first, but there were worries. How to raise the children after they are born is a big challenge,” Chen said. Both Chen and his wife work in a company in Longhua, with a combined monthly income of around 10,000 yuan. With the arrival of the quadruplets, Li has had to quit her job to care for the six children, leaving Chen as the sole breadwinner for the family. Recognizing their financial hardship, the hospital has promised to provide some support, and Chen can apply for an annual maximum of 2,000 yuan in assistance for impoverished women and children. The story has sparked considerable attention and discussion on social media. Many people have offered blessings to the family, while others have questioned the couple’s decision to proceed with the pregnancy, given their financial constraints. Chen expressed hope that society might offer some assistance to help his family navigate their new reality. (China Daily) | 