In 2002, Hien, now living in Bac Tu Liem, Hanoi, faced her first major health crisis: rheumatic heart disease. Initially, her family dismissed her symptoms as side effects of medication after a prolonged sore throat. However, the final diagnosis shocked everyone. "I couldn't believe it, as no one in my family had a history of heart disease," Hien recalls. The illness quickly deteriorated her health, causing rapid weight loss, constant weakness, and shortness of breath.

Hien during her treatment, weighing 39 kg. Photo courtesy of the subject.

Hien during her treatment, weighing 39 kg. Photo courtesy of the subject.

Rheumatic heart disease is a systemic inflammatory condition (related to the immune system) that occurs after one or more bouts of strep throat caused by group A streptococcus bacteria. The disease manifests with symptoms including arthritis, carditis (heart inflammation), chorea (involuntary movements), subcutaneous nodules, and erythema marginatum (a skin rash). Early detection and proper treatment can lead to a full recovery. However, late diagnosis and inadequate treatment can result in severe heart failure and even death.

The psychological pressure intensified as attending school became a major challenge. Despite the support of her friends, Hien constantly worried about the potential dangers of her heart condition. In 2006, at 21, she got married. A year later, Hien faced the agonizing decision to terminate her first pregnancy at 12 weeks to undergo heart valve replacement surgery. Doctors warned that her heart wasn't strong enough to sustain the pregnancy, and carrying to term could lead to serious heart failure.

"Everything happened so fast. I was devastated to lose my baby, and the biggest fear was not knowing if I would ever have another chance to become a mother," Hien shared.

Fortunately, six months after the surgery, Hien became pregnant again. The pregnancy was high-risk, and doctors performed a C-section at 36 weeks to protect both mother and child. However, her health struggles continued. An unhealthy diet and the stress of making ends meet took a toll, causing her weight to plummet to 39 kg, leaving her exhausted and breathless.

Three years later, another blow came with a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism. This condition causes the body to overproduce hormones, leading to symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and potentially dangerous complications like arrhythmia or even thyroid storm – a life-threatening medical emergency.

"I felt so frustrated with life. Why did all these hardships keep happening to me?" Hien confided. She often felt like giving up. But her love for her family and the desire to live a healthy life became her motivation to change.

From a frail individual, Hien conquered 5 km and 10 km races, culminating in completing a 21 km half-marathon. Photo courtesy of the subject.

From a frail individual, Hien conquered 5 km and 10 km races, culminating in completing a 21 km half-marathon. Photo courtesy of the subject.

The turning point came when Hien met a woman who introduced her to a healthy lifestyle. She began to rebuild her life with a focus on wellness. Hien learned to drink enough water and choose fresh, whole foods, prioritizing leafy greens and colorful vegetables. She replaced red meat with plant-based protein, chicken, fish, and seafood, and opted for steaming and boiling to preserve nutrients. Doctor Do Thi Ngoc Diep, Vice President of the Vietnam Nutrition Association, emphasizes that a balanced diet with six food groups (protein, fat, carbohydrates, vegetables, fruits, and dairy) is the foundation of a healthy body. Any significant dietary restrictions can lead to immediate consequences like fatigue and, in the long term, a weakened immune system.

In addition to nutrition, exercise became an integral part of her recovery. Initially afraid that physical activity would strain her heart, Hien researched and began with gentle exercises like therapeutic yoga, walking, and jogging. According to Dr. Kenneth R. Pelletier's book, The Best Alternative Medicine, therapeutic yoga helps stabilize the musculoskeletal system, improve blood circulation, and strengthen muscles. A study in the American Journal of Cardiology indicates that light jogging for a few kilometers can be more effective in reducing bad cholesterol than sprinting.

"As a heart patient, I was once afraid to exercise. But after being guided in gentle exercises like breathing, yoga, walking, and running, I changed," Hien said.

Gaining weight from 39 kg to 47 kg wasn't easy, especially with a body struggling with absorption due to long-term medication. But with her family's support and unwavering determination, Hien persevered with her healthy diet and exercise regimen of 3-4 sessions per week. From a frail individual, she progressed to completing 5 km and 10 km races, culminating in a 21 km half-marathon at a VnExpress event.

Bui Thi Kim Ngan, 38, a nutrition coach and friend in Hien's wellness community, expressed admiration for Hien's story and transformation. According to Ngan, when Hien first embarked on her healthy lifestyle journey, she was weak, pale, battling multiple illnesses, and burdened with financial responsibilities.

Hien now enjoys playing her favorite sports. Photo courtesy of the subject.

Hien now enjoys playing her favorite sports. Photo courtesy of the subject.

Today, Hien is no longer the shy, withdrawn woman defined by her illnesses. She's a vibrant, energetic person eager to share her story. "A healthy person has a thousand dreams, but a person without health has only one dream: to be healthy," Hien shared.

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