Ly Tieu Van

My name is Ly Tieu Van, I’m only 17 years old, but my life has already faced more storms than my age could ever tell. I once had a home, once had someone I loved, but now, all I have left is a tiny life growing inside me — the only hope that keeps me going. I’m a homeless girl, wandering across the northern parts of Vietnam, finding shelter under roofs, in markets, or at bus stations.

Each cold night, I hold my belly and whisper to my baby, “My child, I’ll keep fighting, even if it’s with my last breath.” I don’t blame anyone; I just wish for a chance to start over, to live a peaceful life — where my child can smile, go to school, and call me “Mom.”

I don’t seek pity, only a helping hand, a look of understanding, and a bit of kindness. Because even in poverty and rejection, I still believe there are good people and hope in this world. I am Ly Tieu Van — a small girl with a big heart, still searching for a place to call “home.”