A Story Book For Children In Vietnam About Patau’s Syndrome
Once upon a time, in the beautiful country of Vietnam, there was a little girl named Mai. Mai loved exploring the lush rice fields and playing by the sparkling rivers with her friends. She had a big heart and a smile that could light up the whole village.
One day, as Mai was playing hide-and-seek with her friends, she noticed a tiny butterfly with colorful wings fluttering near her. The butterfly seemed lost and confused. Mai gently caught it in her hands and whispered, “Don’t worry, little butterfly, I’ll help you find your way.”
As Mai held the butterfly, she noticed something different about it. Its wings were not as big as the other butterflies she had seen before. Curious, she decided to take it to her wise grandmother, Ba Ngoai, who knew all about the creatures of the land.
Ba Ngoai smiled warmly as she examined the butterfly. “Oh, my dear Mai, this butterfly has a special condition called Patau’s syndrome. It means that it is born with some differences that make it unique.”
Mai looked at Ba Ngoai with wide eyes. “What kind of differences, Ba Ngoai?”
Ba Ngoai explained, “Well, my dear, just like how we all have different talents and abilities, this butterfly has some special ones too. Its wings may be smaller, but it can fly just as gracefully as any other butterfly. It sees the world in its own beautiful way.”
Mai nodded, understanding that being different didn’t mean being any less special. She decided to name the butterfly Bong Hoa, which means “Flower Dream” in Vietnamese, because it reminded her of the delicate flowers that bloomed in their village.
From that day on, Mai and Bong Hoa became the best of friends. They would explore the countryside together, visiting the colorful markets and tasting delicious street food. Bong Hoa would flutter around, spreading joy and happiness wherever it went.
Word about Bong Hoa’s unique beauty spread throughout the village, and soon children from all around came to see the extraordinary butterfly. They learned that even though Bong Hoa had Patau’s syndrome, it was still a symbol of strength and resilience.
Mai and her friends would gather around Bong Hoa, listening to its gentle wings and sharing stories of their own dreams and aspirations. They realized that just like Bong Hoa, they too had their own unique qualities that made them special.
As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the village, Mai would bid farewell to Bong Hoa, knowing that it would return the next day, bringing joy to everyone’s hearts.
And so, dear children, remember that just like Bong Hoa, we should celebrate and embrace our differences. Each one of us is like a beautiful butterfly, capable of spreading love and happiness in our own unique way. So dream big, be kind, and always remember that you are special, just the way you are.
Now, close your eyes, my little ones, and let the sweet dreams of Bong Hoa carry you to a world where differences are celebrated and love knows no bounds. Goodnight, my precious children
