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Cambodian girl transformed after life-saving tumor surgery in Taiwan

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Outcome reported
  • A Cambodian girl named Asha, who underwent complex surgery for a facial tumor in Taiwan a year ago, has shown a remarkable transformation.
  • Doctors from Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital visited Asha in Cambodia and found her to be confident and cheerful, a stark contrast to her previous shy demeanor.
  • The successful surgery, involving vascular embolization and tumor removal, has significantly improved Asha's quality of life and self-esteem.

A Cambodian girl, known as Asha, has undergone a profound transformation a year after receiving life-changing surgery in Taiwan for a large vascular tumor on her right cheek. Doctors from Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital recently visited Asha in her home country and were met with a young girl who is now radiant with confidence and cheerfulness, a remarkable change from her previously introverted and shy nature.

Asha's journey began when she was identified with the condition during a medical mission in Cambodia. Due to limited local medical resources, her family sought assistance from the Tzu Chi Foundation. After initial assessments in Taiwan in late 2024, Asha underwent a high-risk, multi-stage surgical procedure in early 2025. The treatment involved a 5.5-hour vascular embolization surgery to shrink the tumor, followed by an 8.5-hour tumor removal and skin graft reconstruction performed by a team led by plastic surgery director Huang Chieh-chi.

Medical treatment is not just about curing diseases, but about deeply accompanying life.

— Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital statementThe hospital described its philosophy of care beyond the surgical intervention.

The medical team's recent visit to Asha's school in Cambodia was met with a warm reception. Asha, now taller and in good health, actively participates in school, makes friends, and excels in her studies, embodying the joy and carefree spirit of childhood. Her grandmother, though unable to communicate verbally due to a language barrier, expressed profound gratitude by holding the hands of the medical staff, conveying deep appreciation across borders.

Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital emphasized that their involvement extends beyond the surgical procedure, highlighting their commitment to providing ongoing support and companionship. Asha's story is presented as a testament to the power of cross-border medical aid and the enduring impact of compassion. The hospital believes this act of kindness has not only changed Asha's life but also sown seeds of goodwill in her community, demonstrating that medical assistance is a continuous journey of care for patients and their families.

Asha's story is a relay of love, symbolizing that medical assistance does not end with surgery but continues to accompany patients and families towards health and the future.

— Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital statementThe hospital framed Asha's case as an ongoing commitment to patient well-being.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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