A reporter from Dantri Newspaper presented a symbolic cheque of VND 237.6 million (about USD 9,300) to Tran Thi Hanh, the mother of Tran Thi Thanh Nhan. The funds had previously been transferred directly to her account.
Nhan, from Ea O commune in Dak Lak, was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour two years ago.
Her parents, both from the Tay ethnic minority, rely on seasonal farm work for income, mainly on local coffee plantations. Their earnings are low and unstable, and their home was built with support from local authorities.
Despite financial hardship, the family had managed to support their three children’s schooling until Nhan fell ill in late 2023.
Following brain surgery, she has been undergoing chemotherapy at a cancer hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. Her mother stays by her side, while her father works and cares for their two younger children at home.
Over more than two years of treatment, Nhan has undergone more than 20 chemotherapy cycles, multiple changes in treatment plans due to relapse and lung metastasis, three surgeries and two extended courses of physiotherapy.
Complications have taken a toll on her health. Once weighing 25kg, she lost 10kg before her weight rose to 40kg due to medication side effects.
Although her condition has improved, she can only stand and walk slowly, relying on a wheelchair for longer distances.
Her mother described her progress as a “miracle”, recalling moments when she feared losing her daughter during seizures.
However, financial pressure remains severe. Even with health insurance covering much of the cost, each chemotherapy session still costs around VND 3 million (about USD 120), excluding expenses for nutrition, milk, diapers and travel.
The family’s debt has climbed to nearly VND 300 million (about USD 11,800), including loans with monthly interest rates of 2 per cent.
After the story was published, thousands of readers and donors contributed to support the family.
Hanh expressed gratitude for the assistance, saying it has given her renewed hope in continuing her daughter’s treatment.
Recent medical results show encouraging progress, with MRI scans indicating no abnormal signs or metastasis. Nhan has now entered a recovery phase, combining rehabilitation and electro-acupuncture to improve mobility.
“She is still weak on one side and needs support to walk, but she is trying hard to regain independence,” her mother said.
