Couple with cancer appeal for help to support three children

Duong Dinh Kien, 43, from Ham Rong Ward in Thanh Hoa City, recently returned home after a long period of hospital treatment for lung cancer.

From a small bed in the corner of the house, he slowly walked over to his wife, Duong Thi Hong, 41, who lay exhausted after battling stage three lung cancer.

“Next week, my wife must return to hospital for radiotherapy, but we have no money left,” Kien said.

Hearing her husband, Hong turned weakly and spoke in a faint voice: “Sometimes we feel so much pain and sadness. We have no money for treatment, and even medicine must be used sparingly. There are days when the pain is unbearable, but I just endure it quietly.”

The couple married in 2006 and have three children: a 17-year-old daughter in grade 11, a 14-year-old son in grade 8, and a nine-year-old daughter in grade 3.

Their life was modest but stable. Kien worked as a mechanic while Hong grew vegetables to sell at the local market.

In 2022, after years of saving, they borrowed money to build a house, hoping for a more secure future. Instead, tragedy struck.

In early December 2025, Kien suddenly collapsed at work. Medical tests later confirmed he had lung cancer.

“Everything collapsed when I heard the news. All our plans for the children suddenly felt uncertain,” Hong said.

As Kien underwent repeated hospital visits and treatment, the cost of medicine and travel quickly drained the family’s limited income.

Just weeks later, in late December 2025, while caring for her husband in hospital, Hong began experiencing chest pain. Tests confirmed she too had lung cancer.

“I was numb when the doctor told me. I never imagined such tragedy would come all at once. I only worry about my children. If something happens to both of us, they will be left alone,” she said, breaking into tears.

To stay alive, the couple now take turns going to hospital each month for treatment. Although part of the cost is covered by health insurance, they still face significant out-of-pocket expenses for medication, tests, travel and accommodation.

“We still owe VND 300 million (approximately USD 11,500) from building the house. After months of treatment, we have borrowed another VND 60 million (approximately USD 2,300). I just hope to live long enough to repay the debt and take care of my children. Please help us,” Hong said.

Duong Dinh Manh, head of Thieu Duong 7 residential group, said the couple are hardworking and kind, but both sides of the family are unable to provide financial support.

“Their three children are still of school age. Since late December 2025, both parents have been diagnosed with lung cancer and require long-term hospital treatment,” he said.

After verifying the family’s situation, local authorities confirmed the hardship and reported the case to Ham Rong Ward authorities for assistance.

“We have mobilised support within the community, but resources are very limited. Through Dantri, we hope donors across the country can help the family continue treatment, overcome this difficult period and support their children’s education,” Manh said.