[vc_video link=’https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckmQNcicoZ0′]
In Vietnam, due to the lack of specialist in rural areas, a significant number of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients with minimal cash in hand must travel hundreds to thousands of kilometers to reach the hospitals in the city. The expenses for the trip itself is already a challenge for many patients let alone the cost of treatment. But today, there are numerous CML survivors who directly benefit from The Max Foundation’s patient access program to receive their cancer treatment at no cost. A living testimony to the success of our program is Lan.
Lan is a young, enthusiastic, Vietnamese woman living in Ha Noi, who refuses to be ordinary. On World CML Day 2017, Lan decided to let her treatment journey story to be heard. Lan was diagnosed chronic myeloid leukemia when she was 23 years old. Initially, she was hesitant to share her story with anyone. It was kept within the family, as she was scared, weak and lost. With an attitude “Never give up nor abandon hope” she kept searching and successfully found what she looked for – The Max Foundation’s “magical” patient assistance program that would bring her the necessary CML treatment. 11 years later and the innovative program still supports Lan and many other CML patients in Vietnam.
Today Lan is living a happy normal life. Like other people in Vietnam, she goes to work and contributes to society. Because of the benefits of the patient assistance program, and continued stigma against cancer patients, Lan has started sharing her story – starting with this video.
Lan is forever grateful for the government that acknowledges the importance of patient assistance program. With Lan’s advocacy and our ongoing work, we hope to see other sustainable treatment access programs extended to many other patients in need.
Thao Tang is a MaxStation based in Ho Chi Minh City, who is managing Patient Assistant Program and passionate about supporting cancer patients of Vietnam.
Tony Leo, musician and patient advocate shares his story of finding great passion and inspiration in the midst of facing his fears. “Passion is something that grips you, changes you and make you scale great heights where few will ever reach.”
Three years ago I made a decision that changed my life: to donate my birthday to support the work of The Max Foundation for as long as I have birthdays to come. Ever since I have been involved with The Max Foundation, every day I am witness to the courage of people faced with cancer, the generosity of spirit of those who become patient leaders, and the dedication of healthcare providers around the world. Join me today by honoring their efforts on my birthday, July 28th.
Shalet Souza is a 42-year-old nun at the Institute of Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany, in Mangalore, India. She currently takes care of aspiring nuns and lives a life devoted to learning and supporting others, including the poor and needy in her region. At 29, Shalet sought treatment for frequent fevers, which would….
