The dire circumstances of this man grew increasingly dire, with a disease that seemed to fall from the sky.
At 20, men married his 18-year-old bride, beautiful and radiant. Their lives seemed to flow peacefully under the roof by the rural canal in Hiệp Xương commune (Phú Tân – An Giang) until one day, Mến noticed two red pimples near his nose.
A few days later, the pimples swelled, spreading across his face. Despite taking medication, the pain, burning, and severe headaches continued. His face turned black, hard as a rock, swelling to the size of a bowl, drooping down to his chin. Mến couldn’t eat or do anything.
His body weakened and lost vitality. His family took him to various hospitals, including in Ho Chi Minh City, where doctors diagnosed a tumor requiring surgery. Due to financial difficulties, Mến postponed the operation until it was too late.
Returning home, Mến sought treatment from various local healers in the Bảy Núi region (An Giang), even inviting shamans to his home. Some healers believed he was cursed. According to local practitioners, “ngải tượng” is a type of herbal curse used by sorcerers.
Whether curses exist and can be used to harm or benefit others remains a mystery. Unable to explain his sudden illness, Mến believed he was cursed. His wife sold all her jewelry to support him in his treatment journey. They did everything they could.
Mến recalls how different healers used various treatments: some applied leaves to his face, others used steam treatments, and some prescribed herbal concoctions. His body endured countless treatments, and his face was subjected to relentless torment.
Among the many healers, only one in Kiên Giang managed to relieve his pain with a few herbal concoctions. As the swelling subsided, it left his face with sagging, misshapen skin.
Though the excruciating pain disappeared, Mến’s face became unrecognizable. His sagging skin and distorted features made him look unlike anyone else. His wife stayed by his side, caring for him, believing they could find a cure.
Once a robust young man, Mến had to stay home as no one would hire him with his disfigured face. Feeling helpless and desperate, Mến encouraged his wife to seek happiness elsewhere. Tearfully, she left, returning to her parents’ home. She initially visited him regularly but eventually asked if she could remarry. Without hesitation, Mến agreed.
“She deserves happiness and children. I’m content knowing she’s well,” Mến says wistfully. Though she remarried, she occasionally visits him.
Despite his deformity, Mến speaks fondly and forgivingly of his ex-wife, keeping their wedding photos to comfort himself during lonely times.
Mến’s small house, shared with his mother, holds little of value. Locals occasionally offer material help. To survive, Mến still works odd jobs.
Five years ago, an American doctor visited Vietnam and assessed Mến’s condition. After reviewing his medical history, the doctor regretfully explained that the facial nerves were too damaged for reconstructive surgery.
For 15 years, Mến has lived reclusively, avoiding public gatherings. Children are terrified of him, and locals don’t invite him to events.
“I only have one wish: to have a normal face and live as a human,” Mến says tearfully.
Eating and drinking are daily struggles due to his sagging lips and misaligned teeth. He uses a cloth to catch food falling from his mouth and must use a straw to drink.
Recently, some benefactors took Mến to Ho Chi Minh City for further examination. The tests showed his health was relatively good, with no tumors on his bone structure, and his jawbone remained intact. It appeared that the facial deformity was due to excessive tissue.
Reconstructive surgery is possible, but it must preserve facial nerves. His eyes are often red and swollen due to the weight of his facial tissue.
This is a complex case requiring collaboration between local and international experts. Despite the faint hope, Mến feels a renewed sense of optimism, dreaming of the day when his tormenting mask will be removed. As he returns to his home in An Giang, Mến smiles with newfound hope.