By Jan-Peter Kelder | Resource development manager
In 2022, we supported 167 children in pursuing their education. All of them face difficulties in their young lives. Leo (an assumed name), is one of them. He is a 14-year-old boy, who has no parents, and was unwanted by his family. We found him a safe and loving home, and ensure he stays in school. This is his touching story.
When Leo’s father learned that his wife was pregnant, he left right away and has never been in touch with his son ever since. Unfortunately, it is a common response in Thailand for fathers to disappear without taking any responsibly. Leo’s mother had to raise her son all by herself and struggled to make ends meet. When Leo was only nine years old, mother died because of HIV and cancer, after being sick for several years. Leaving Leo an orphan, with no one wanting to look after him.
Unwanted by relatives
Leo’s aunt reluctantly invited Leo to come and live with her family. It was clear from the start that she did not want to look after Leo, also because she didn’t have the financial means to take care of yet another child. Leo felt unwanted, and aunt didn’t hide that she was frustrated with the situation. There was a lot of tension, and Siam-care staff often had to visit to talk to auntie. At one point, the situation got out of hand, and Leo had to leave.
A true angel
Suddenly, Leo was all alone, being only 13 years old. Thankfully, we found someone in our network who was willing to let Leo live with her. She is a true angel, named auntie Nui. Our staff is a member of the same church, and when auntie Nui heard of Leo’s situation, she opened her house for him right away. Leo now lives in a Christian community, with other children who were unwanted, like himself. Auntie Nui even looks after the children of her ex-husband, who aren’t her own. She has a big heart and much love to give to children unloved by others.
A better future
Siam-Care covers all educational costs, ensuring Leo can finish his studies and look after himself financially in the future. Auntie Nui works hard to pay for rent and food, working several jobs. She feels God has called her to look after orphans, and he provides their needs. With the help of Leo’s sponsor (through Siam-Care), the family manages to make ends meet. It is not an ideal situation, but we are thankful that Leo ended up with people who care about him and want the best for him. This was all made possible, with the support of Siam-Care’s donors.
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