Overcoming loss, living a meaningful life.

QTO - Having lost both hands in a landmine accident at a very young age, Mr. Nguyen Thanh Hao overcame the most difficult years of his life to rise up, become independent, and dedicate himself to supporting people with disabilities. As the Deputy Director of the Gio Linh Rehabilitation Center for Children with Disabilities, a unit under the Association of People with Disabilities, Agent Orange Victims, and the Protection of Children's Rights in Quang Tri Province, Mr. Hao quietly organizes activities and connects resources so that many children with disabilities have the opportunity to receive rehabilitation.

From adversity to independent living

At the Gio Linh Center for Rehabilitation of Children with Disabilities (Gio Linh commune), Mr. Nguyen Thanh Hao begins his workday at his familiar computer. He regularly updates activity plans, lists of children, and support information. Despite having both arms amputated, he still performs his tasks skillfully, slowly but surely.

He was born in 1965 in Gio Linh commune, Quang Tri province. In 1984, while working in the fields with his family, he was unfortunately involved in an accident caused by unexploded ordnance left over from the war. The explosion claimed the life of a neighbor, and he was severely injured. At that time, due to difficult emergency conditions, the wounds became gangrenous, forcing doctors to amputate both of his arms.

That event completely changed his life. The first few days after the accident were a challenging time, when every activity became difficult, and many youthful dreams were left unfulfilled. But in those circumstances, he chose not to give up. He adapted to his new life, learning to live independently and do the tasks within his capabilities. Even seemingly simple tasks required time to adapt. His perseverance helped him gradually regain his independence.

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Hao guides physical training for children with disabilities at the center - Photo: QN

In 1990, he got married. His wife, Duong Thi Quyt (born in 1971), has been his companion throughout his life. Speaking about her husband, Mrs. Quyt shared that the first few years after the accident were very difficult, requiring him to start all his daily activities from scratch. But what reassured her was that Mr. Hao always tried his best to do things within his capabilities, not wanting to be a burden to his family.

"He rarely complains; he's always looking for ways to work and participate in activities. Because of that, the family has more motivation to overcome challenges together," Mrs. Quýt said.

Connecting to support people with disabilities

Based on his own experience, Mr. Nguyen Thanh Hao chose to dedicate himself to supporting people with disabilities. For many years, he has participated in activities at the grassroots level, from the Disabled Persons' Club in the commune to various associations, gradually contributing to building a support network in the locality.

What he cared about wasn't the numbers, but how to help people with disabilities understand their rights and access policies. In many cases, thanks to his guidance and support, they were able to complete the procedures to receive social welfare benefits, thus improving their living conditions.

Currently, as the Deputy Director of the Gio Linh Center for Rehabilitation of Children with Disabilities, his work involves organizing activities and connecting resources. The center currently has 62 children registered for rehabilitation; approximately 10-17 children come for training each day. Despite many difficulties, the center's activities rely primarily on the support of the community and charitable organizations and individuals.

Therefore, a crucial part of his work is maintaining relationships, connecting with benefactors, and mobilizing resources to ensure the stable care and support for the children. From soliciting equipment and financial support to organizing activities for the children, everything requires initiative and responsibility.

Ms. Mai Thi Diem Nhi, from Ha Thanh village, Gio Linh commune, whose child is participating in rehabilitation at the center, shared that initially, her family was very worried because they didn't fully understand the treatment methods or the child's potential progress. However, during the monitoring and support process, she noticed that Mr. Nguyen Thanh Hao was always attentive in organizing activities and regularly communicated with parents to understand the situation of each case.

"What reassures me is the way Mr. Hao cares for each child, from arranging training schedules to connecting them with additional support. Thanks to him, my family has more confidence to persevere with our child during the recovery process," Ms. Nhi said.

Commenting on Mr. Nguyen Thanh Hao, Mr. Thai Vinh Lieu, Chairman of the Association of People with Disabilities, Agent Orange Victims, and Child Rights Protection in Quang Tri Province, said that Mr. Hao has been involved in association work for many years from the grassroots level and is always responsible in his work. In his current position, he has utilized his experience, proactively organized the center's activities, and actively connected social resources to support people with disabilities, especially children in difficult circumstances.

In his work, Mr. Hao always aims to create a welcoming environment where families can confidently entrust their children. For him, the center is not just a place for rehabilitation, but also a place that connects compassionate hearts.

From an event that seemed to close the door on his future, Mr. Nguyen Thanh Hao chose to move forward, gradually rebuilding his life. The image of this quiet, dedicated official, persistently connecting with and contributing to helping many people with disabilities integrate into the community, evokes a simple meaning: Every person, regardless of their circumstances, can live a meaningful life.

Quang Ngoc

Source: https://baoquangtri.vn/xa-hoi/202604/vuot-len-mat-mat-song-mot-doi-co-ich-04465c1/