(FILE)

Zhang Lili, a middle school teacher in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, inspired the nation in a life-saving act of selflessness.

Zhang, 29, a Chinese language teacher at a middle school of the city of Jiamusi, was crossing the road just outside the school's gate when a school bus suddenly came rushing toward nearby students in the morning of May 8. Zhang pushed two students out of the way before being struck by the bus. After doctors spent 58 hours working on her, Zhang finally regained consciousness on May 15.

As news of her actions spread, she won national praise. Donations to Zhang's family from schools, companies and the government have been pouring in. She was honored by the Heilongjiang Provincial Women's Federation the title of "Excellent Female Worker" on May 14. The Chinese Ministry of Education has also called on the country's teachers to learn from her.