Picture courtesy: Khaosod

 

A 13-year-old boy named Pond embarked on an ambitious 100-kilometre bicycle journey to reunite with his grandparents in Ubon Ratchathani. His adventure commenced in Laem Chabang, Chonburi province, as he departed without notifying his mother, determined to reconnect with the grandparents who had nurtured him.

 

The young cyclist's journey was interrupted when compassionate locals found him at a PTT Hua Samrong Gateway gas station in Chachoengsao province. The boy, dressed in a school uniform and appearing worn out, was quickly surrounded by concerned patrons who inquired about his circumstances.

 

Pond shared that his intention was not born out of any domestic strife or issues at school. Having moved in with his mother only five months prior, he simply missed the comforting presence of his grandparents. His ordeal included a minor collision with a motorcyclist, who generously compensated him with 100 baht, enabling him to purchase some food.

 

Inside his modest backpack, Pond carried a hammock, a few school essentials, and personal items such as a ping-pong paddle and a flute. When he was found, he had just 60 baht remaining. The quick response from locals and a local reporter at the scene led to an outpouring of generosity, raising over 2,000 baht for the intrepid young traveller.

Police from the Plaeng Yao station soon stepped in, contacting Pond’s father, Mr. Kat. Upon arrival, the father and son shared a heartfelt reunion, discussing Pond's determination to return to his grandparents in Ubon Ratchathani. Though his father understood and respected his son's wishes, he requested Pond to finish the school term first due to approaching exams.

 

The family agreed upon a plan for Pond to move back to his grandparents after completing the term, allowing him to embrace his educational journey while maintaining cherished family ties. During this conversation, Pond also revealed his ambition to become a social justice lawyer, highlighting a mature and profound sense of purpose at such a young age.

 

With the situation amicably resolved, and assurances from Pond that he would not venture out without notice again, his father took him safely back to Laem Chabang. This story not only illustrates the lengths a child might go for love and belonging but also showcases community spirit and collective empathy, reported Khaosod.

 

-- 2025-02-17

 

 

Lovely story thank you.

Good luck kid... 

7 hours ago, webfact said:

The family agreed upon a plan for Pond to move back to his grandparents after completing the term,

 

I sincerely hope this transpires and that Thai media outlets follow up on this story to confirm the young lad's wishes are fulfilled.

The best of luck Young Mister Pond.

A sad story. He is obviously happier and more comfortable with his grandparents than with his parents. There will have been a good reason for him to try and undertake such a long and difficult journey. I hope this works out well for him.