An Australian mother is in critical condition in Vietnam following complications from a cosmetic procedure. Chloe Mowday, 31, traveled to Da Nang with her husband, Josh, and their youngest son, Elijah, for a family vacation that included visits to Disneyland in Hong Kong and Universal Studios in Singapore. During their stay, Chloe underwent a rhinoplasty and a blepharoplasty, both typically considered safe procedures.
The situation took a dire turn when Chloe fell ill the morning after her surgeries. According to her brother, Rod Mowday, she had initially stayed overnight at a clinic but was later discharged to her hotel. “A few hours later, she started to feel strange and had pain in areas besides the surgery site,” Rod explained. After taking her prescribed medication and resting, her condition rapidly deteriorated. “When Josh checked on her, she wasn’t responding well, and then she stopped breathing. I believe her organs had started shutting down quickly,” Rod added.
Rod suspects that Chloe may have developed Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but severe condition often triggered by bacterial infections. As of now, medical professionals are still conducting tests to identify the exact cause of her illness, and a police investigation is underway. “She’s on dialysis, had to have a blood transfusion, and is on medication to stabilize her blood pressure,” Rod stated. “It got so low that her feet and fingers turned black.”
Upon receiving the alarming news, Rod quickly arranged to fly to Vietnam with his 16-year-old daughter. “I was absolutely mortified when he told me what had happened,” he said. He described the emotional toll of seeing his sister in such a precarious state. “The doctors said she is very strong, but when I asked if she is going to make it, they couldn’t give me a straightforward answer.”
Chloe remains in the intensive care unit at Da Nang Hospital, where her condition continues to be monitored. Rod mentioned that doctors attempted to bring her out of an induced coma but were unsuccessful. “They slowly reduced her sedation, but her body couldn’t handle it, so they had to put her back into an induced coma,” he shared. As of the last update, Chloe’s eyes were open, but she was still unresponsive and reliant on life support.
The medical team has advised the family that prolonged hospitalization in Vietnam poses a heightened risk of infection for Chloe, prompting them to explore options for her return to Australia. Rod noted, “The doctors informed us she has a better chance of recovery at home, so we are attempting to arrange an air ambulance.”
To finance the medical expenses, including a staggering quote of $228,000 for the air ambulance, the family has initiated a GoFundMe campaign. “We are proud people and didn’t want to ask for help,” Rod acknowledged. Despite their reluctance, the escalating medical bills have left them with no choice. So far, they have raised just over $15,000, with a notable contribution of $2,000 from a supporter named Brian Fisher. “I am so thankful for the love and support from everyone,” Rod expressed.
The family is also in communication with the Australian embassy in Vietnam for assistance with the logistics of transferring Chloe back to Perth. A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed, “The department is providing consular assistance to an Australian in Vietnam. Owing to our privacy obligations, we are unable to provide further comment.” Consular assistance may include coordination with local hospitals and authorities, as well as support in communicating with family members.
Rod, who has returned to Perth, characterized his sister as a “beautiful girl and a loving soul.” He emphasized her role as a devoted mother to three young children and a supportive partner to her husband, who has remained by her side throughout this ordeal. “We are trying to get her home via air ambulance as soon as possible,” he said. The family is also pursuing bank loans and accessing superannuation funds to manage the mounting medical costs.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Mowday family remains hopeful for Chloe’s recovery and safe return to Australia. They are deeply appreciative of the support from their community during this challenging time.
