Australian Woman Fights for Life After Cosmetic Surgery in Vietnam

An Australian woman is currently on life support in Da Nang, Vietnam, following complications from cosmetic surgery. Chloe Mowday, 31, underwent a rhinoplasty and a blepharoplasty, both of which are typically considered safe procedures. As her condition deteriorated, her family rushed to her side, prompting a medical and legal investigation into the incident.

Chloe traveled to Vietnam with her husband, Josh Mowday, and their youngest son, Elijah, as part of a vacation that included plans to visit Disneyland in Hong Kong and Universal Studios in Singapore. Shortly after her surgery, Chloe began to experience severe health issues. “She stayed at a clinic in Da Nang overnight, and the following morning they took her back to her hotel,” said Rod Mowday, Chloe’s brother. “A few hours later, she started to deteriorate.”

Rod recounted that Chloe felt strange and experienced pain beyond the surgical site. After taking prescribed medication, she attempted to rest but soon became unresponsive. “When Josh came to check on her, she wasn’t responding well – then she stopped breathing,” he added. While Rod suspects Chloe may have suffered from a rare case of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), this has yet to be confirmed by medical professionals.

Chloe remains in intensive care, undergoing various tests to ascertain the exact cause of her condition. Reports indicate that she is on dialysis, has received a blood transfusion, and is being administered medication to stabilize her blood pressure. Rod described the distressing scene during his visit: “She was not awake; she had tubes coming out of her.”

The Mowday family is now facing the daunting task of arranging for Chloe’s medical evacuation back to Australia. A quote for the air ambulance has reached $228,000. Given the escalating medical bills and the urgency of the situation, they have initiated a GoFundMe campaign to seek assistance from the community. “We are proud people and didn’t want to have to ask for help,” Rod acknowledged, “but we have no choice.”

As of now, the family has raised just over $15,000 and is grateful for the support they have received. “I am so thankful for the love and support from everyone. People are just beautiful,” Rod said, highlighting the generosity of individuals like Brian Fisher, who contributed $2,000.

The Australian embassy has been involved, offering consular assistance to the family. A spokesperson from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade stated that they provide support to Australians overseas, including liaising with local authorities and hospitals.

Rod emphasized the importance of getting his sister home for her recovery. “The doctors have informed us that she has a better chance of getting through this at home in Australia,” he noted. The family is actively exploring options for bank loans and accessing superannuation funds to cover medical costs.

The hospital in Vietnam has filed a police report as part of the investigation into Chloe’s situation, which has led to the clinic’s name remaining undisclosed. “It’s heartbreaking to see my beautiful sister in this way,” Rod expressed, reflecting on the emotional toll of the experience.

Chloe’s family is hopeful that she will soon be cleared for transport and can begin her recovery surrounded by loved ones back in Australia. As the situation unfolds, the Mowday family continues to appeal for support as they navigate this challenging ordeal.