Dying to Survive

Cheng Yong is struggling to save his business while seeking medical help for his father. This dire circumstance pushes him to make decisions that will alter the course of his life.

Cheng comes face to face with a buyer wearing a surgical mask who presents him with a lucrative opportunity. The buyer's proposition stirs a mix of curiosity and apprehension within Cheng.

Following the buyer's suggestion, Cheng aims to procure a cost-effective leukemia treatment from India. This drug, imatinib, is essential for patients but is priced out of reach by the Swiss pharmaceutical company.

Cheng's operations begin to thrive as he successfully smuggles the medication, marking his entry into the black market. The transformation of his humble store into a crucial resource for patients reflects his new role.

With each transaction, Cheng's financial situation improves significantly. He becomes well-known in this underground network, but with recognition comes a slew of ethical dilemmas.

As Cheng enjoys his newfound wealth, he is increasingly troubled by the heartbreaking stories from families affected by exorbitant cancer treatment costs. These narratives force him to confront the consequences of his actions.

Chinese authorities ramp up their efforts to combat the illegal smuggling of imatinib. Cheng finds himself consistently evading law enforcement, heightening the tension surrounding his operations.

The patent holder, Nova, starts legal proceedings against the Indian government for violating intellectual property rights. This situation complicates Cheng's already precarious position in the black market.

As legal troubles mount, Cheng faces a moral crisis about his business practices. The profits he once celebrated now carry a heavy weight of ethical considerations linked to the lives of patients in need.

Amidst mounting pressure, Cheng confronts a pivotal crossroads in his life. He must choose between continuing his profitable yet illicit trade or finding a path that aligns with his moral values.

As the stakes continue to rise, Cheng begins to deeply reflect on the human impact of his financial gains. His journey becomes a somber examination of desperation versus ethical responsibility.

Throughout this tumultuous journey, Cheng discovers that the boundaries between right and wrong become increasingly obscure. His situation forces him to reevaluate the societal implications of his actions.

As the legal and moral pressures mount, Cheng realizes he cannot evade the inevitable confrontation with his choices indefinitely. He stands poised to determine not just the fate of his business but also his own integrity.

In the culmination of his journey, Cheng reflects on the choices he has made and their consequences. His struggle embodies a larger commentary on healthcare access, morality, and the relentless pursuit of financial success.