“Mom, I want to learn to be a hairdresser” – Giai Mat’s Persistent Dream

Recently, while sitting next to her mother as she was doing a customer’s hair, Giai Mat gently said: “Mom, I want to learn to be a hairdresser.”

Ms. Ly paused, surprised by her daughter’s words. It was such a simple statement, but it carried so much meaning.

Born with osteogenesis imperfecta, a condition that makes her bones extremely fragile, hospitals and bone splints have been part of Giai Mat’s life since she was a baby. Even the smallest fall could mean a fracture.

Their family used to live together in the city, but when her father struggled to find work, he returned to their hometown in Dak Lak to cut down on living costs. Since then, Ms. Ly has carried the whole family on her shoulders. She works as a hairdresser, doing everything she can to provide for Giai Mat. Despite life’s hardships, she always puts her daughter first, making sure she has a chance to go to school and enjoy a happy childhood.

In 2023, thanks to the support of Children of Vietnam, Giai Mat received scholarships at the start and end of the year, leg braces, medication, and help with regular medical visits. This support opened a new chapter in her life. With her braces, she can now walk slowly and steadily, look after herself, and go to school like other children.

“She used to ask me why she couldn’t walk like her friends,” Ms. Ly shared softly. “Now, seeing her take each step with confidence… I feel so grateful. I just hope she stays strong and happy.”

Every day after school, Giai Mat loves to sit and watch her mother work. She dreams of learning how to style hair, do makeup, and cook delicious meals – things that bring her joy and make others smile. She hopes that one day, she can help her mom in the salon, and maybe even open a little hair salon of her own.

At 11 years old, while other children are free to run and play with their friends, Giai Mat – with her bright eyes and quiet determination – is used to hospital visits, daily leg brace changes, and the constant smell of strong medicine. Yet each day, she patiently practices walking with her braces, taking small, steady steps toward her dreams.

Because of your support, children like Giai Mat can keep hoping, keep trying, and keep moving forward – one brave step at a time – towards a brighter, stronger future.