The incident happened when Thom was only 12 years old. At first, he could still see dimly, but within a year, his eyes were permanently dark. In a conversation with his mother, Thom said: “Mom, I can no longer see to study.”
Those words were a shock to his family, especially his mother. Despite her efforts to treat him, all efforts were in vain. At that time, Thom had to quit school and live in sadness and isolation.
Tan Thao's younger brother was not any luckier as his eyesight gradually deteriorated after a severe fever. His eyes gradually became blurry, then his left eye could no longer see clearly, making life and studying extremely difficult.
In a family of six, only the father and older sister were lucky enough to have good eyesight. Their mother, over time, also lost her sight completely. Thao and her second brother could still see dimly, while Thom, since the age of 12, could no longer see light.
No longer able to see anything, life around Thom was all darkness. Thom shared: “When I was young, I only knew that if I could no longer see, I would not be able to go to school anymore. But living in the dark at home for many years, I felt very sad, like being isolated, and my personality was not normal.”
A big turning point came to Thom when her aunt who came back from Ho Chi Minh City to attend a death anniversary realized Thom’s situation and asked: “Do you want to go to the city to study? I will find a school for you.” That question was like a ray of light, lighting up hope in Thom’s heart.
In 2011, Thom was brought to Ho Chi Minh City by his aunt, starting his journey of study and opening a new door in his life. In the early days, Thom encountered difficulties and sometimes wanted to give up, but thanks to the encouragement of his teachers, he found his motivation again.
At the orphanage, Thom learned Braille and especially piano. Teachers at the orphanage supported him a lot in his studies.
When Tan Thao finished 5th grade, Mr. Thom proactively asked for his younger brother to study with him, creating an opportunity for both brothers to change their lives.
After that, Thao studied Information Technology and software design, while Thom continued to pursue her passion for piano.
Thao also sometimes feels self-conscious, especially when she cannot see clearly everything around her. Tan Thao said: “When I entered the shelter, I felt lucky and gradually became more satisfied with my life.”
When asked about his wish, Thom said he just wanted to have a stable job so that his family would not have to worry about life. He not only wanted to be independent but also wanted to share the burden with his parents, helping his family ease their difficulties.
The story of the two siblings Thom and Thao is a strong testament to the spirit of overcoming difficulties and family love. Even in the most difficult circumstances, they still constantly strive to spread positive energy to everyone.
