Du Van Loc
Loc’s condition was diagnosed at age 11, but not before the disease had caused severe stenosis of the mitral, aortic, and tricuspid valves of his heart. Now aged 32, he has become increasingly weak and short of breath, cannot work, and is unable to support his wife, Võ Thị Luy and their two children. He has been advised that, without surgery to correct his stenotic heart valves, he is at great risk of a stroke or even sudden death.
Loc family is ‘officially poor’ – their total income less than 400,000VND ($20US) a month. They have no savings. Until recently they lived with Loc’s elderly parents. Three years ago, with the assistance of a stipend from their commune, they were able to build a small house – one room for the family of four, with an attached partially enclosed shelter for cooking. They have no running water, and no bathroom. Their toilet is a hole scratched in the forest floor. Their only income, supplemented by a small contribution from the commune, derives from casual farming work that Luy is able to obtain. In her absence, Loc cooks, and looks after the children.
‘Poor’ certification, in addition to entitling their children to free education at district schools, provides basic health insurance for the family.
Loc family is ‘officially poor’ – their total income less than 400,000VND ($20US) a month. They have no savings. Until recently they lived with Loc’s elderly parents. Three years ago, with the assistance of a stipend from their commune, they were able to build a small house – one room for the family of four, with an attached partially enclosed shelter for cooking. They have no running water, and no bathroom. Their toilet is a hole scratched in the forest floor. Their only income, supplemented by a small contribution from the commune, derives from casual farming work that Luy is able to obtain. In her absence, Loc cooks, and looks after the children.
‘Poor’ certification, in addition to entitling their children to free education at district schools, provides basic health insurance for the family.
Loc’s surgery cost 80 million VND (US$4,000). His insurance company covered 30 million VND (US$1,500), Hue Medical University supported him with 45 million VND (US$2,250). VNHIP were able to assist by donating 5 million VND (US$250) towards the cost of his surgery.
Loc’s surgery was performed in Da Nang hospital. He is extremely grateful and is feeling much better. He is excited that he can return to work to support his wife and provide for his family.