One of the most memorable moments for me whenever I make visits to Ban WiaKadee, Sangklaburi, Kanchanaburi is seeing a happy young boy who always has big smile on his face. The familiar picture is of him sitting in his wheelchair in front of his house, smiling away as he sees me, and adorably asks if I have his favourite sweet for him. It’s been three years of knowing this charming boy.
The boy’s name is Jantid, one of the children enrolled into our Child Rescue Fund program. He is now 10 years old, has been suffered from Thalassemia. From the illness, he is always tired, cannot balance well, pale, and has big swollen stomach. He also needs blood transfusion every two months, at the nearest hospital, 10 kms away from his house. Despite his weak body, he loves going to school. He enjoys attending any activities available, including the ones organized by CCF Kanchanaburi Child Development Program. He’s always enthusiastic and excited to join the sessions.
At the beginning of this year (2016), his illness got worse as his body has to deal with muscular weakness or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The doctor said the boy will not be able to walk anymore. What they can do for him is to continue with blood transfusion, regular medical checkup, and medicine. This stops Jantid from going to school and seeing his friends.
CCF gives him love and care, covers medical expenses, transport expenses to and from hospital, and helps with household supplies. And we hope we can do more, to cheer him up.
Jantid’s parents told us that their son loves social activities and he enjoys colouring. He wants to go to school but with his physical limitation, he has to stay home. His mum added, "Whenever you have activities in the area, please let me know. I’ll definitely take my boy there."
Every time I visit Jantid, I can see the flashback of the big belly little boy running to me with big smile as I would always bring some goodies. These days, he’s still the lovely smiley boy despite all that unfortunate circumstances in life.
Salinthip Charoensap
CCF project, Kanchanaburi
20 July 2016
