Do Xuan Thanh

Orphaned of his father from a young age, Do Xuan Thanh has faced hardship all his life. His mother, who is now battling cervical cancer, works far from home to earn a small income. Thanh has been raised by his grandmother since childhood. She also cares for his younger sister and a cousin, despite her own chronic illnesses.

The family rents a small, run-down house and often goes hungry. They have no beds—only old mattresses on the floor—and Thanh’s study corner is made from folded cardboard boxes. Life is extremely difficult, but Thanh remains determined to stay in school.