An Australian mother, Chloe Mowday, is currently on life support in Vietnam following serious complications from cosmetic surgery. The 31-year-old had traveled to Da Nang with her husband, Josh Mowday, and their youngest son, Elijah, intending to enjoy a family vacation that included trips to Disneyland in Hong Kong and Universal Studios in Singapore.
During their stay in Da Nang, Chloe underwent a rhinoplasty and a blepharoplasty, procedures that are generally deemed safe. However, the day after her operations, she began to feel gravely ill. “She stayed at a clinic in Da Nang overnight, and the following morning they took her back to her hotel,” her brother, Rod Mowday, told news.com.au. “A few hours later she started to deteriorate.”
Chloe reportedly experienced pain beyond the surgical site and became unresponsive, leading to her being rushed to a local hospital. Rod believes she may be suffering from a rare condition known as Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), although this has yet to be confirmed.
As of now, Chloe remains in the intensive care unit (ICU) at a Da Nang hospital, undergoing various tests to determine the cause of her symptoms. According to Rod, her condition is severe; she is on dialysis and has received a blood transfusion due to dangerously low blood pressure. “It got so low her feet and fingers turned black,” he said.
Rod quickly traveled to Vietnam upon receiving a call from his brother-in-law, expressing his horror at the situation. “I was absolutely mortified when he told me what had happened,” he stated. During his five-day visit, he was allowed to see Chloe for only 15 minutes each day. “What I saw was just heartbreaking,” he remarked.
Medical staff have attempted to bring Chloe out of an induced coma but have been unsuccessful so far. “They slowly removed the drugs she was on, but her body was still unable to handle it,” Rod explained. “As of last night, her eyes are open, but she still can’t respond and remains on life support.”
Rod indicated that medical professionals have advised the family that Chloe’s chances of recovery may improve if she can return home to Australia. Consequently, they are working on securing an air ambulance for her transport, estimated to cost around $228,000. In light of this financial burden, the family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds. As of now, they have raised over $15,000, with a significant contribution of $2,000 from a donor named Brian Fisher.
“We are proud people and didn’t want to have to ask for help,” Rod stated. However, they felt compelled to reach out to the community due to the escalating medical costs.
The family is also in contact with the Australian Embassy for assistance in facilitating Chloe’s return to Perth. A spokesperson from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed they are providing consular assistance to the family, which may include liaising with local hospitals and authorities.
Rod characterized Chloe as “such a beautiful girl and a loving soul.” He emphasized the urgent need to bring her home for further care, stating, “The doctors have informed us that she has a better chance of getting through this at home in Australia.”
While the family navigates this difficult situation, they are also exploring options for bank loans and superannuation access to cover medical expenses. Meanwhile, a police investigation is underway regarding the circumstances surrounding Chloe’s condition, which is part of the reason the name of the clinic has not been disclosed.
As they await updates on Chloe’s health, the family remains hopeful for her recovery and grateful for the support they have received from the community.
