RW Supply + Design’s mission is that we exist UNTIL EVERY CHILD IS HOME. A few months ago, 20-year-old Trong, helped by Orphan’s Voice (an organization we support in Vietnam), announced that he was ready to take his next step in life and begin a business to support himself and help his family. An amazing development when you know his story!

Trong is an only child diagnosed with cerebral palsy.  At 15 years old, he could not count, read or write. He was nearly immobile, with muscles stiff from inactivity. Even worse, Trong often suffered abuse from his father’s explosive violent outbursts. With no social agency to intervene, Trong was withdrawing from life; his eyes always looked downward, and he rarely spoke. He felt unloved and disconnected.

But Orphan’s Voice provided a therapy center with loving and skilled staff! In small steps, Trong began to improve. At first, easily frustrated and ready to give up on new tasks, he became more confident with every success. He learned to read, write, and do basic math. He gained flexibility and mobility through exercising his muscles. Perhaps most importantly, they sent therapists to befriend his parents, helping them to develop new ways of interacting and managing their own stress. 

A few weeks ago, Trong visited his friends at the therapy center and brought everyone a hat from his new business. He feels a part of the community and that he has something to contribute! The ability to support Orphans Voice, providing therapy and family support, and work until the day that every child is home is solely because of the work that you do each day.