Thai King’s Son Says He Cannot Afford Brain Surgery Abroad
Thai King’s Son Says He Cannot Afford Brain Surgery Abroad
BANGKOK, Sept. 22, 2026 — Dr Chakriwat “Than Aong” Vivacharawongse, a son of Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn, has publicly appealed to return to Thailand for urgent brain surgery, saying he has two large brain tumours and cannot afford treatment in Malaysia or the United States.
In a video posted on social media, the 43-year-old physician said he wants to receive treatment in Thailand because he believes Thai doctors have the expertise needed for his condition.
“I want to return to Thailand for treatment because Thai doctors are highly capable,” he said, according to reports of the video.
Dr Chakriwat said he fears his condition could become life-threatening without timely treatment. His latest comments provide further details following a Sept. 18 statement in which he said his health was in “truly terrible condition” and that several neurologists had warned he could become bedridden or die if treatment was delayed.
His health concerns first emerged publicly earlier this month, when he said he was unwell and focusing on recovery. His brothers subsequently expressed concern over his condition, saying they did not know where he was or whether he was receiving appropriate medication and treatment.
Dr Chakriwat has lived with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), now known as NF2-related schwannomatosis, since adolescence. The condition can cause tumours to develop along nerves and within or around the brain and spinal cord. His previous medical account documented a long history of treatment, including 10 open surgeries as well as Gamma Knife and CyberKnife procedures.
The latest information about his condition comes primarily from Dr Chakriwat himself. No hospital or treating physician has publicly confirmed the current diagnosis, the proposed surgical procedure or when an operation might take place.
He has also cautioned the public against unauthorised fundraising. Dr Chakriwat said he has not given anyone permission to collect donations on his behalf and urged people to verify any fundraising appeal through his official social-media accounts before sending money.
The appeal comes as attention grows around his reported medical condition and his request to receive treatment in Thailand.
