The Power of Compassion in Survival Journeys

The Unseen Strength of Compassion

At the Intensive Care – Poison Control Department of Đức Minh General Hospital in Hà Giang, our medical team is accompanying the family of Mr. Vừ Dũng Dế, a 38-year-old H’Mông ethnic minority patient, through one of the most challenging medical and emotional journeys we have witnessed. Despite his critical condition, hope is being kept alive thanks to the united efforts of both healthcare workers and the wider community.

Mr. Dế is the sole breadwinner in a family of nine, including his wife and seven young children. His eldest daughter, just 17 years old, has become his sole caregiver at the hospital, having dropped out of school and paused her own life to stay by his bedside. Her quiet dedication has moved many who have come into contact with the case.

Initial Admission: Severe Infection and Critical Condition

When admitted to Đức Minh Hospital, Mr. Dế was in septic shock, severely malnourished, and suffering from a massive abscess around his left knee and lower leg. Emergency surgery was immediately performed to address necrotizing fasciitis and bone infection. Previously, he had discontinued treatment at a lower-level facility due to financial hardship, unable to afford the out-of-pocket costs of medications not covered by health insurance.

Following emergency surgery and two days of intensive care, he regained consciousness and showed early signs of improvement. However, the infection remained severe, requiring close monitoring and specialized treatment. Both his family and our healthcare team have continued to fight for his recovery, one day at a time.

Latest Update: Facing Life-Threatening Complications

Update as of June 17: Although some improvements were noted compared to the time of admission, septicemia remains a serious and complex threat. Mr. Dế is now in multi-organ failure, with complete pulmonary whiteout, severe respiratory failure, upper airway obstruction, and advanced sepsis. This stage of treatment is extremely difficult, requiring high-level medical intervention and sustained financial resources.

Hospital and Community Support

Đức Minh Hospital has committed to covering 30% of the treatment costs not included in Vietnam’s national health insurance scheme, and has also provided free meals for his caregiver. In addition, the hospital has actively mobilized community support, sharing updates through its internal communication channels to call for compassion from generous donors near and far.

All contributions are publicly recorded and transparently managed, ensuring they reach the right people at the right time. This case is part of our hospital’s long-term humanitarian program, which strives to ensure that no patient is left behind due to financial barriers — especially among ethnic minorities and remote communities.

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Mr. Vừ Dũng Dế’s story is not only a complex clinical case, but also a testament to human resilience, family bonds, and the power of collective compassion. With continued support, there remains a glimmer of hope — for his recovery, and for the seven children waiting for their father to come home.