This was her legacy. This is our mission.
Hong Lien Ton Nu, was a 12th-generation princess from Huế, Vietnam. Her true nobility lay in her strength, sacrifice, and unwavering love for her family and community. She was born in Huế, Vietnam, a city rich in culture and history. In 1975, following the fall of Saigon, she fled her homeland as a refugee and resettled in the United States, where she lived until her passing in 2020.
At just 38 years old, she made an unthinkable choice: to flee war-torn Vietnam with her husband and seven young children. Carrying nothing but two small purses filled with family photographs, she left behind not only her homeland, but centuries of tradition, all in search of refuge and hope in the United States. Leaving Vietnam broke her heart. She was forced to say goodbye to her extended family, friends, and the community she loved in the wake of the Vietnam War. But she did what was necessary to protect the future of her husband and seven children. With courage and humility, she embraced an uncertain future in a new country, grateful for the opportunity the United States provided—a chance not just to survive, but to thrive.
In America, she began again with the help from our local community. By day, she labored as a factory worker, quietly enduring long hours, and physical hardship. By night, she transformed into the heart of our home: raising seven children, managing all the household responsibilities, and teaching herself English, one word at a time.
Though her earnings were modest, her discipline was extraordinary. She stretched every dollar to ensure the children had what they needed—food on the table, a roof over our heads, access to healthcare, and an education. Despite her own financial hardships, her heart remained open and never forgot those she left behind. The hardships endured by the people of Vietnam remained close to her heart. She became a quiet force of generosity—sending two-pound care packages filled with food, medicine, and daily necessities back home, where such items were still desperately needed.
Over the next 45 years, she was only able to return to Vietnam a handful of times. Yet each visit was treasured. One of her greatest joys was walking through her old neighborhood, quietly handing out small sums of cash to those in need, no questions asked, no expectations in return.
She was an inspiration to her children, instilling in them the values of compassion, humility, and service. Her legacy now lives on through them and the charitable foundation established in her name. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit returns to her homeland, through acts of kindness and hope, carried out in her honor.
In 2025, my sister and I established the Hong Lien Foundation in her name, to carry forward her spirit of generosity and service. Thanks to the compassion of others, we rose out of poverty. It is with profound gratitude that we may now pay it forward, helping others as we had once received help.
This was my mother. This was her legacy. This is our mission.
