An Australian woman is currently on life support in Vietnam following complications from a cosmetic procedure. Chloe Mowday, 31, traveled with her husband Josh Mowday and their youngest son Elijah for a family vacation, which included plans to visit Disneyland in Hong Kong and Universal Studios in Singapore. While in Da Nang, a city known for its beaches and resorts, Chloe underwent a rhinoplasty and a blepharoplasty, both of which are typically considered safe.
The situation took a drastic turn when, the day after her surgery, Chloe began to feel severely unwell. Her brother, Rod Mowday, recounted how she was initially discharged from a local clinic but soon deteriorated at their hotel. “She started to feel strange and had a bit of pain in other areas besides the surgery site,” he told news.com.au. After taking some prescribed medication and resting, Chloe was found unresponsive by Josh and subsequently stopped breathing.
Rod suspects Chloe may be suffering from a rare complication known as Toxic Shock Syndrome, which is typically caused by a bacterial infection. Although this has yet to be confirmed, Chloe remains in critical condition as medical teams conduct tests to identify the underlying issue. A police investigation has also been initiated.
As of now, Chloe is on dialysis and has undergone a blood transfusion to stabilize her condition. “Her blood pressure dropped so low that her feet and fingers turned black,” Rod explained. He flew to Vietnam immediately after receiving alarming news from Josh.
During his five-day visit, Rod could only see Chloe for 15 minutes each day due to her critical state in the Intensive Care Unit at Da Nang Hospital. He found it heartbreaking to see his sister in such a vulnerable condition. “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,” he said.
Despite efforts to reduce her sedation, Chloe’s body struggled to respond, leading doctors to re-induce her coma. Rod highlighted the risk of infection if she remained in the hospital long-term, prompting the family to arrange for her transfer back to Australia. They are hopeful that she will receive medical clearance to fly within the next month.
To alleviate mounting medical expenses, including a quoted $228,000 for her air ambulance transport, the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign. “We are proud people and didn’t want to have to ask for help,” Rod noted, but circumstances have made it necessary. So far, they have raised over $15,000, with one generous donor contributing $2,000.
The family has also reached out to the Australian embassy for assistance with Chloe’s transfer and ongoing medical needs. A spokesperson from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed they are providing consular support without disclosing further details due to privacy obligations. The family is also exploring options for bank loans and accessing superannuation to cover costs.
Rod emphasized Chloe’s loving nature and her role as a devoted mother to her three young children. “The doctors have informed us that she has a better chance of getting through this at home in Australia, so we are trying to get her home via air ambulance as soon as possible,” he stated.
As the family navigates this harrowing experience, they remain grateful for the support from their community and are focused on bringing Chloe back home safely.
