Lo Van Thi, from Dien Bien Province, has an eight-year-old daughter, Lo Thi Thanh Thuy, who suffers from kidney calcification, urinary tract infections and low magnesium levels. Weighing just 17kg, she requires frequent hospital treatment.
Facing severe financial hardship, Thi and his wife left their two children in the care of their grandmother while they travelled to lowland areas for casual work to cover medical costs. Their income, however, remained limited.
The grandmother and the children had been living in precarious conditions in a rundown house.
After Dantri newspaper reported on the family’s situation, readers and donors contributed more than VND 154 million (about USD 6,000) in support.
Thi said the family also took out loans from banks and relatives to complete construction of a new house. With a stable home, the couple can continue working while their children are cared for by their grandmother.
Doctors have said the child’s condition cannot be fully cured but can be managed to prevent deterioration. Her health has stabilised and she is now able to attend school regularly.
“She is going to school again, and that is the greatest happiness for our family,” Thi said.
In addition to the new house, Thuy and her brother have received a study desk, books and school supplies.
Her grandmother, Lo Thi Buong, said she had never imagined owning such a solid home and expressed gratitude to donors for their support.
Local officials also thanked contributors, saying the assistance not only provided housing but also gave the family renewed hope and strength to cope with illness and rebuild their lives.
