Honoring the Gift of Life in Vietnam: A Moment of Reflection and Respect at Bach Mai Hospital
Even without understanding a word, gratitude and respect speak volumes. Recently, I was moved by a video from Bach Mai Hospital in Hanoi, which I had visited during my August travels. Though the narration was in Thai, the story of a family's selfless decision to donate their loved one's organs touched me deeply. Starting at 4:45, the hospital staff’s words to the organ donor show profound reverence—a tribute that reaches beyond language and borders.
On October 16, 2024, a 36-year-old man named Lê Tiến Sơn was brought to Bach Mai Hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam, after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest. Despite the intense efforts of the hospital's medical team to resuscitate him, his prognosis was dire. After a week in intensive care, specialists determined he would not survive. His family was then faced with a profound decision—whether to donate his organs, potentially saving multiple lives.
Moved by a sense of compassion and a wish to help others, his family chose to honor his life through organ donation. This video captures the moment when, with deep gratitude and respect, the operating room staff addressed Mr. Lê Tiến Sơn before proceeding with the organ retrieval. From minute 4:45 to 5:59, the OR staff member speaks directly to Mr. Lê Tiến Sơn, expressing heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the hospital and the patients whose lives would be transformed by this courageous act.
04:48 (translated from Thai to English) "Lê Tiến Sơn, when you fell ill, your family brought you to Bach Mai Hospital for emergency treatment. Our doctors dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to saving you, but sadly, we were powerless to change fate. However, we believe that wherever you are, you will be at peace. Today, we are here with your permission to perform this noble gesture. You were a gentle and compassionate person, always sharing love and helping others. Now you return to Mother Earth, yet it feels as though your heart and life remain with your loved ones. In accordance with your family's wishes, we stand before you and humbly ask permission to donate your heart and part of your body to those suffering from severe illnesses who are desperately seeking life. We believe that, from above, you will watch over this beautiful act with a smile of approval.
Once again, allow us to bow respectfully and honor you. Let us observe a minute of silence."
Their words brought tears to my eyes and truly humbled me. The deep gratitude and respect shown for this individual, who selflessly chose to help others even in passing, is powerful.
When I shared this video with a Chinese anesthetist friend, he mentioned that a similar practice exists in China—before the organ retrieval begins, a brief ceremony and a minute of silence are observed, sometimes even with a family member present. This acknowledgment of the donor's life and sacrifice reflects a universal respect that transcends borders.
Witnessing this reminds me of the incredible dedication within the medical community to honor each donor and support their families in these difficult moments. We could all benefit from understanding this: every donation is a deeply personal, courageous decision that offers hope and life to others.
Thanks for taking the time to read this post.