Khuong is a single mother who lives with her 14-year-old son in a small town in Vietnam. She has always been outgoing and loving, taking every opportunity to connect with the people around her.
When Khuong was 52, she suffered a stroke that paralyzed one side of her body, leaving her unable to stand, walk, or speak. Her son would help her while he was home, but as a studious eighth-grader, he would be away at school for much of the day, six days a week.
Khuong would then be left by herself, on her bed, unable to move on her own.
For an extrovert like her, the loneliness and isolation were almost unbearable.
When a team from our local distribution partner visited Khuong’s home, she could hardly contain her excitement. Unable to fully express her elation with words, she welcomed her guests with grins, laughs, hugs, and kisses.
Khuong was fitted with a new wheelchair. With the independence that mobility provides, she is no longer confined to her bed while her son is at school. She can once again go outside and interact with people.
Khuong never wanted to be a burden to her son, whom she loves dearly. She was always mindful of the possibility that he might have to drop out of school to become her full-time caregiver.
Now that she has a wheelchair, she has peace knowing that her son can concentrate on his studies and prepare for his future.
When you give the gift of mobility, you bless more than just the individual recipient. You make a difference in families and communities–a difference that could impact generations to come.
Blessings,
Don Schoendorfer
