Viet was finally born on September 12th, 2010. Viet’s birth was a blessing, but sadly, he arrived into this world with complications that most parents, let alone new parents, could ever expect.
At birth, Viet’s hemoglobin was abnormally low. They did a number of tests on Viet from birth, up until 9 months; it was at 9 months when medical health professionals had come to a diagnosis for Viet: Hemoglobin E Beta Thalassemia. Beta thalassemia created a myriad of complications for Viet — his spleen became enlarged, he has delayed growth, and ultimately his body was not producing enough red blood cells to carry oxygen cells throughout the body. Due to these reasons, he must receive blood transfusions every 2-3 weeks. Even though he is receiving blood transfusions frequently, because he is receiving this so often, his body may become resistant to the treatment, which could lead to dire results. Because of this glaring reason, after many years of hospital visits and blood transfusions, a plan was created with his doctor, to cure Viet of this disorder. He will receive a bone marrow transplant from a matching donor: his baby brother, Victor.
Viet will finally receive his life changing surgery in January 2024. In order to prep for such a major procedure, for the remainer of October through November 2023, he will start on medication to prep for his January surgery. After his procedure he will miss out on school for several months, and the main focus will solely be on his recovery and aftercare. Although his surgery is life changing, his aftercare is incredibly important. The medications and general aftercare needed for him will result in a bill costing around $75k. An astronomical amount that his family sincerely requires assistance with.
Viet’s family is now working with COTA, to provide fundraising assistance and support, and provide them with a platform to spread awareness for Viet. All donations and gifts are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law, and the money received will go directly toward transplant-related expenses, such as Viet’s transplant medications and aftercare. Thank you for reading his page and for any donations and gifts made towards COTA for Viet’s Hope. Thank you so deeply for helping him secure a successful recovery, and for helping Viet achieve a normal, healthy life. We will continue to update his journey with you.
The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) helps children and young adults who need a life-saving transplant by providing fundraising assistance and family support. COTA is the nation’s only fundraising organization solely dedicated to raising life-saving dollars in honor of transplant-needy children and young adults. 100% of each contribution made to COTA in honor of our patients helps meet transplant-related expenses. COTA’s services are free to our families, and gifts to COTA are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.