The man chose to fight the impossible: ALS advocate Cai Lei honored as China's key AI contributor of the year

On July 18, China celebrated the people shaping the future of artificial intelligence (AI) at the 2026 China AI Gala in Shanghai, co-hosted by China Media Group (CMG), the National Development and Reform Commission, the Cyberspace Administration of China, and the Shanghai Municipal Government.

Among the evening's most moving moments was the presentation of the Special AI Contribution Award to Cai Lei. For Cai, the honor represents far more than technological innovation. It is a tribute to a years-long battle against one of medicine's most devastating diseases - amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

In 2025, Cai shared his extraordinary journey on CGTN Digital's Health Talk series, Everyday Heroes – a program that was also featured in the video shown during his award presentation at the 2026 China AI Gala. "I hope any team crosses the finish line – I don't care if it's mine," Cai said. "When faced with hardship, or even hopelessness, no matter how many times you fail to accomplish what no one has done before, do not be afraid. Even if the odds are stacked against you, never surrender. You will light a flame of hope for yourself and for the world."

Cai's story is not only about one man's determination, but also about the community that has rallied around the fight against ALS. Doctors, scientists, caregivers, patients and their families have joined forces, sharing knowledge and supporting one another in pursuit of breakthroughs. Together, they are advancing new therapies, improving assistive technologies and creating innovations that offer patients more time – and a better quality of life.

AI has also become a key driver of that progress. Leveraging AI to analyze vast amounts of biomedical data, for the first time, his team identified a feasible pathway to treating ALS in preclinical animal models, including complete immune system reconstruction through bone marrow transplantation, according to CMG.