Nguyễn Văn Lực, pictured with a group of children in need. Photo baolamdong.vn

Ngọc Lài

ĐÀ LẠT Nguyễn Văn Lực's journey of goodwill to help those in need began from a very young age when he learnt by heart his mother's teachings of doing good deeds and charity.

Lực, a 70-year-old from Đà Lạt City, serves as the Chairman of the Charity Association for Poor Patients, Disabled People and Orphans of Lâm Đồng Province, reported the Vietnamnet.vn.

Over the past decade alone, he has mobilised over VNĐ500 billion (US$20.1 million) to aid more than 1,500 impoverished children and patients undergoing heart surgeries, brightening the lives of nearly 10,000 elderly individuals, and providing essential support such as 4,000 wheelchairs and rocking chairs for the disabled and stroke patients.

In addition, Lực has generously distributed 1,500 bicycles and 1,200 scholarships to orphaned, disabled, and economically disadvantaged students. He has also sponsored over 4,000 preschool students and children from ethnic minorities with nutritious meals to enhance their health.

Recognised for his remarkable contributions, Lực was honoured with the title of "Bright Life Model" by the People's Committee of Lâm Đồng Province in 2018. He has received commendations from the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs and the Central Association of the Disabled and Orphans of Vietnam on three occasions. In 2020, he was further acknowledged as a "Silent Light of the Community" by the then Prime Minister.

Lực's altruistic journey, spanning 64 years, was shared in Episode 205 of the HTV 7's "Knocking on Doors, Visiting Houses" programme. Reflecting on his humble beginnings, he recounted his family's relocation from Huế to Đà Lạt when he was just three months old, driven by his father's pursuit of work opportunities amid hardships.

Initially, Lực's father worked as a woodcutter before transitioning to forestry for an agency. Meanwhile, his mother engaged in the tea trade, sourcing tea from Bảo Lộc (Lâm Đồng) and transporting it to Nha Trang, Phú Yên, contributing to the family's increasing prosperity.

At the age of 6, Lực's mother entrusted him with the weekly task of distributing rice and money to the poor. Following her guidance, he eagerly fulfilled this duty, distributing rice and financial aid to those in need.

This early exposure to charity work left a lasting impression on Lực, who eagerly anticipated opportunities to assist the less fortunate. By age 15, he was actively involved in charity activities through the Hoàng Thập tự (Royal Cross) Youth, later transitioning to the Red Cross Society, where he dedicated himself to weekly charitable endeavours.

Even as he embarked on his professional career, Lực remained committed to philanthropy, contributing to the construction of schools, charity houses and donating bicycles. He dedicated half of his daily schedule to aiding the disadvantaged, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to charitable causes.

A young Lực on a rice donating trip at the age of 6. Photo courtesy of Nguyễn Văn Lực

The miracle for a good man

Lực, often likened to a fairy godfather for his compassionate acts, sometimes finds himself overwhelmed with helplessness in the face of challenging situations.

One such instance involved Nam, a 40-year-old patient with heart disease, who urgently needed surgery but didn't qualify for support.

Determined to save Nam's life for the sake of his children, Lực rallied support from relatives and friends, raising over VNĐ200 million ($8,056). Tragically, however, Nam passed away a day before his scheduled surgery, leaving Lực emotionally distraught.

Another poignant case involved a child who underwent heart surgery and showed signs of improvement. However, a careless moment of play led to a fatal heart attack. Lực was both saddened and angered, feeling the weight of responsibility towards the child's well-being.

Despite such challenges, there were moments of hope, like when Lực reunited with a family of three battling cancer, one of whom he had helped a decade previously. Although initially unrecognisable, the person never forgot the kindness of their benefactor.

Though dedicating his life to helping others, Lực himself faced a life-threatening illness. Thirteen years ago, he was diagnosed with renal necrosis, leading to the removal of one kidney. With his health rapidly declining and doctors warning he had only three months to live without a transplant, Lực faced a daunting dilemma. Yet, he chose to spend his remaining time focused on charity work, keeping his deteriorating health a secret from his family.

When he eventually collapsed, his family rushed him to the hospital, where the severity of his condition became apparent. Learning of his urgent need for a transplant, fifteen individuals volunteered to donate a kidney. After thorough examination, five were found to be suitable donors.

Facing complications due to his age, Lực underwent surgery in Singapore, followed by treatment in Japan. Despite the challenges, he received exceptional care, with the foreign hospital providing treatment free of charge. The medical team, aware of his charitable work, prioritised his recovery, knowing that his survival meant continued support for countless children in need.

Grateful for his second chance at life, Lực longs to express his gratitude to his anonymous donor, though he understands it may never be possible. Meanwhile, he remains committed to honouring both his own life and the selfless act of his benefactor through continued acts of kindness and charity. VNS