Tributes after British teenager dies while visiting Vietnam
Tributes after British teenager dies while visiting Vietnam
A British teenager lost her life during a trip to Vietnam, reportedly in a road accident. Viet Nam News reported that Orla Wates, 19, was traveling the Ha Giang Loop in northern Vietnam when she fell from the motorcycle’s rear. She was rushed to Hanoi’s Viet Duc Friendship Hospital, where she passed away on 2 April, with her parents present at the bedside.
Family’s compassionate decision
Orla’s mother, Henrietta Wates, shared that the family opted to donate her organs to aid others. “Orla was beautiful, independent and very funny, with a sharp wit,” she said. “She loved to look good and lived life to the full.” The donation, she added, was a tribute to Orla’s desire to contribute to others’ chances at life. “Knowing she is living on through them brings us great comfort,” the mother emphasized.
“We chose to donate Orla’s organs, as we believe that if there were a way to give opportunity to others, this is what Orla would have wanted,” Henrietta explained.
A hospital representative noted the family’s decision reflected a profound act of kindness. “In the face of profound grief, her family made a deeply compassionate choice that transcended nationality and race,” they said. “One journey has come to an end, but her life continues quietly and resiliently in others who have been given a second chance.”
Support from UK authorities
A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office conveyed condolences to Orla’s family and friends. “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Orla Wates, following her tragic death in Vietnam,” they stated. The FCDO confirmed it was coordinating with local authorities and providing assistance to the family during this challenging period.
Background and road safety context
Orla had been exploring South East Asia prior to enrolling at Durham University, according to Viet Nam News. Her father, Andrew Wates, highlighted her affection for Vietnam, stating that “giving back to the South East Asian nation was very important” to his family. The Ha Giang Loop, a 350km mountain road journey, is a popular route for travelers, though many operators advise hiring a local guide for inexperienced riders. Vietnam’s road network has drawn attention for its perilous conditions, with over 10,000 fatalities and 16,000 injuries recorded in traffic accidents alone in 2024.
“We chose to donate Orla’s organs, as we believe that if there were a way to give opportunity to others, this is what Orla would have wanted,” Henrietta explained.
Viet Nam News stated that five critically ill Vietnamese patients received organ donations from Orla. Her father added that her love for the country made the decision to donate “a meaningful way to honor her memory.”
