New Year’s Eve, the sacred moment marking the transition from old to new year, is not always a time of family reunion. Some face unexpected accidents, while others must stay in hospitals to care for their loved ones. This is the story of special lives during New Year’s Eve at major hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City.
Emergency Room, Cho Ray Hospital on the 29th of December (Photo: Hoàng Lê).
Fireworks Accidents: A Costly Lesson on New Year’s Eve
According to Dr. Tu Quoc Tai, Emergency Department, Cho Ray Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City), this New Year’s Eve, the hospital received 28 new cases, including both internal and surgical patients. Among them, a particularly severe case was that of patient P.T.L. (born in 2007, residing in Binh Phuoc Province), who suffered severe injuries due to fireworks.
Patient L. was admitted with multiple traumas: head, chest, and abdomen injuries, as well as a severely crushed left foot with the first toe nearly severed. According to his account, the accident occurred when he and his friends were making fireworks, which unexpectedly exploded. After initial treatment locally, the patient was rushed to Cho Ray Hospital for further care.
Male patient severely injured by fireworks, requiring emergency surgery (Photo: Hoàng Lê).
Here, doctors performed emergency surgery to debride and treat the wounds. The operation took place late on New Year’s Eve, marking the silent sacrifice of the medical team. Dr. Tai noted that since early December, the Emergency Department has frequently treated cases of homemade firework-related accidents. This highlights the dangers of improper use of fireworks.
Health experts strongly advise against making or experimenting with fireworks, as these activities can lead to severe consequences, even death.
Special Cases at the Oncology Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City
Not only at Cho Ray Hospital, but also at the second branch of the Oncology Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City (Thu Duc), many families spent New Year’s Eve in a somber atmosphere. Ms. Thuy Hang (27 years old, residing in Bac Lieu Province) is a prime example.
Ms. Hang and her 6-year-old son, H.P., had prepared to return home after completing chemotherapy for leukemia. However, just before discharge, H.P. suddenly developed a high fever and infection, forcing them to remain in the hospital for observation.
Ms. Hang caring for her son in the hospital on New Year’s Eve (Photo: Family provided).
“In recent days, many donors have visited, bringing gifts and lucky money to the children. But honestly, I just want to go home. New Year’s in the hospital feels so lonely,” Ms. Hang shared.
According to Dr. Nguyen Ky Vinh Tho, Deputy Head of the Pediatrics Department, Oncology Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, currently, 29 children are staying for treatment throughout the Tet holiday. To help families cope, the hospital organizes meaningful activities such as gift-giving, Tet decorations, and a free “zero-dong bus” service to take patients home.
Parents at the hospital striving to stay optimistic as they welcome the new year (Photo: Hoàng Lê).
Silent Sacrifices of Healthcare Workers
While most people celebrate New Year’s Eve, over 40 healthcare workers at the Emergency Department, Cho Ray Hospital, continue their tireless work. Though sometimes feeling sad for being away from their families, they remain committed to their responsibilities. “The medical profession requires sacrifices, but we are always ready to put our personal matters aside to ensure the health of the public,” said Dr. Pham Tri Dung, Head of the Emergency Department.
These New Year’s Eve stories at hospitals not only reflect the sacrifices of healthcare workers but also remind us of the importance of preventing accidents and maintaining good health. Every peaceful moment is precious, and every life deserves protection.
Conclusion
New Year’s Eve is not just a time of reunion but also an opportunity to reflect and appreciate those who silently sacrifice for the community. Let’s raise awareness about accident prevention, especially fireworks-related accidents, and show care and support to those in difficult situations. The new year offers a chance for each of us to spread love and build a healthier, happier society.
Source: Dan Tri
