Born in 1969 in a poor rural area of Hanoi, Dao Thi Nhat had to face many challenges since childhood. With a congenital disability that made life especially difficult, her childhood was a series of days of constant struggle with illness.
During her early years, Nhat used to withdraw into herself because of her inferiority complex in the eyes and words of people around her. Going to school was also a difficult journey due to discrimination from friends and the community.
There were times when she had to face the decision to amputate her leg for treatment, but the surgery failed due to complications during the procedure. Despite this, Ms. Nhat still did not surrender to fate.
As the eldest of five siblings, Nhat is aware that she has to shoulder many responsibilities with her parents in taking care of her younger siblings. It is her will to live and the encouragement from her family and loved ones that has helped her overcome feelings of loneliness and inferiority. She realizes that, despite being different, as long as she tries to create value, she can still shine.
Being a creative person with skillful hands and a special love for handicrafts, Ms. Nhat began to explore the simplest materials available in nature such as pine cones, cotton wool... to create the first handmade products.
Thanks to her meticulousness and diligence, Ms. Nhat has been supported by many people and sought after to buy her handicrafts at festivals and fairs. These small, pretty items not only bring in income but also help her affirm her own value.
A major turning point in Nhat’s life was when she and some other disabled friends founded the Handicraft Cooperative. This is a cooperative model that helps create jobs for many people in the same situation, while also providing opportunities for vocational training and life skills development.
Ms. Nhat herself is one of the first founding members and directly participates in teaching work. This job not only helps her earn extra income but also brings her a lot of joy.
Living in an environment full of love and empathy, Ms. Nhat no longer feels lonely as before, becoming a strong inspiration, not only in the disabled community but also for all those who need encouragement and sharing.
“Life is not always easy, but I always believe that as long as I don’t give up, a new day will always come. I want to give more, to share good things with those around me,” said Ms. Nhat.
Ms. Nhat's inspiring story of resilience and love will be shared on the program "Love Station", broadcast at 10:00 on November 23 on VTV1.
