Project Starfish: life-changing surgery for Chien and Khon at St John of God Berwick Hospital

31 Jul 2025

Inspired by the well-loved story of a boy throwing stranded starfish back into the sea—making a difference, one life at a time—Project Starfish is bringing this message to life by supporting disadvantaged children to access life-changing surgery.

Through a long-standing partnership with the Children First Foundation (CFF) and the leadership of orthopaedic surgeon Professor Ton Tran, Project Starfish continues to transform the lives of children in need. Since 2019, St John of God Berwick Hospital has opened its doors, operating theatres, and hearts to young patients from overseas who would otherwise have no access to specialist orthopaedic care.

The first child helped through this collaboration was Chien, a seven-year-old from Vietnam who had never taken a step due to severe bilateral foot deformities and a dislocated right hip. In November 2019, he became Project Starfish’s first patient, undergoing major reconstructive surgery at Berwick. Just a few weeks later, in December, Chien took his first steps—an unforgettable moment for all involved.

Though further surgery was planned, the COVID-19 pandemic and his schooling postponed his return until this year. Now 13 and thriving academically, musically and socially, Chien returned to Melbourne with his adopted mother to undergo complex surgery on his right hip. The procedure was again led by Prof Tran, with the generous support of Paediatric Orthopaedic Surgeon, Mr Lucas Annabell, and Chien is recovering well. His travel and accommodation have been fully sponsored by CFF.

Joining him on this trip is Ro Cham Khon, an eight-year-old girl from a remote village in Central Vietnam. Khon was born with severe deformities in both feet with bilateral talipes and was unable to walk properly. On the same day as Chien’s surgery, Khon underwent her own reconstructive operation, and she too is recovering strongly.

This special humanitarian work is only possible thanks to the generosity of many. All doctors involved kindly volunteer their time and expertise, and all hospital procedures and admission costs are fully supported by St John of God Health Care. Together with CFF, this collaboration ensures that children like Chien and Khon receive the life-changing care they need—at no cost to their families or to Australian tax-payers.

Both children are scheduled to return home on 30 July 2025, with a brighter, more mobile future ahead of them.

Project Starfish is a testament to what can happen when skill, compassion, and community come together. Just like the boy in the story, St John of God Berwick Hospital knows it may not be possible to help every child—but for Chien and Khon, the difference is immeasurable. It’s a reminder that every starfish matters.