Đinh Văn Hậu, born in 1988 in Kim Động, Hưng Yên, had his life changed forever in 2012 when a traffic accident took away his sight. Before the accident, he worked as a driver, never imagining that one day he would have to navigate life in total darkness.
At first, he remained optimistic, believing that his vision could be restored. But when he realized that his blindness was permanent, despair set in. Depression took hold, and he even considered ending his own life to escape the suffering. However, thanks to the unwavering support of his family and the encouragement from the Hưng Yên Blind Association, he found the strength to keep going. The association provided him with opportunities to learn Braille and acquire vocational training, including a therapeutic massage course that would eventually shape his new career.
Hậu has now been working as a massage therapist for 10 years. Through this latest training course, he has refined his techniques, learning deep, gentle pressure methods that are more effective than the traditional massage style he had been practicing. Over the years, he has worked at three different massage centers for the blind, serving a diverse range of clients. While most come for health benefits, occasionally, about one in every twenty clients behaves inappropriately. In such cases, he skillfully redirects the conversation to maintain professionalism, and if the behavior persists, he refuses to provide service.
His income depends on his clients’ financial situations and their appreciation of his skills. Tips typically range from 20,000 to 100,000 VND. On average, he serves 4-5 clients per day, earning 50,000 VND per client from a standard 100,000 VND session. Additionally, he offers home massage services for regular clients within a 4km radius, where he can negotiate better rates, ensuring a fair exchange for both parties.
As a visually impaired person, Hậu faces daily challenges—mobility difficulties, an inability to observe clients’ reactions, and financial constraints. Yet, he has built a stable life. He has been married since 2015, and together with his sighted wife, who works in local economic management, they have built a loving home for their three children. His wife understands and supports him wholeheartedly, making their family a source of strength and happiness.
Hậu’s story is one of resilience, perseverance, and adaptation. Despite losing his sight, he has never lost his vision for a meaningful life. Through dedication to his craft, he not only provides for his family but also proves that even in darkness, there is always a path forward for those who refuse to give up.
