Hi, my name is David Houser, and I’m an American currently traveling in Vietnam. I’m reaching out because I was just got injured, I broke 4 ribs in my back and earlier this month I got robbed

I was living about 20 miles outside of Ho Chi Minh City. A few days ago, I went a short distance from my place to buy a used motorbike for $1,000. The man I met seemed friendly at first, and we began talking. But when I pulled out the cash to count it, he suddenly shoved me, grabbed the $1,000 — and also took my bag, which had another $1,000 inside. He ran off with everything before I could react.

I reported what I could, but I was far from help, knew no one nearby, and hadn’t seen another American in weeks. After writing this, I didn’t feel safe waiting around that town any longer, so I bought a plane ticket and arranged a ride to the airport. Unfortunately, this put my account into overdraft, and on top of everything, I also lost my $500 apartment deposit when I had to leave in a rush.

I’m now asking for $2,500 to help cover:

Emergency travel and recovery costs

Basic housing while I get back on my feet

Food and communication expenses

Replacing essentials I lost in the robbery

I’ve never asked for help like this before, but I’m in a truly tough situation and trying to make the safest decision for myself. Any support — even a small amount or a share — would mean so much right now.

Thank you for reading, and thank you to anyone who chooses to help. I just want to get somewhere safe and start over.

— David Houser