Report Compassionate Monk Offers Lifeline to Chon Buri Grandmother and Granddaughter

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Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod

 

In a heartwarming tale of resilience and community support from Chon Buri, a 70-year-old grandmother and her 15-year-old granddaughter have found hope after enduring severe poverty that forced them to survive on boiled rice water. Their plight caught the attention of the public thanks to a compassionate monk and a viral video.

 

On May 22, Phra Khru Thawornsatthakhun, the abbot of Wat Woraprot Sangkhawat, along with volunteers from the Vihok Weha group, visited the duo, Jidapa Thiraphanan and her granddaughter Pavinee, known as Ploy. Living in a small rented room in Mueang district, they were deeply grateful to receive donations of rice, dry food, daily necessities, and cash to support Ploy's education.

 

The family’s difficulties began when Ploy’s father, 49-year-old Phisit, was diagnosed with severe tuberculosis, leaving him unable to continue his work as a songthaew driver. Jidapa was forced to sell her noodle business equipment to pay for his medical expenses and Ploy’s schooling fees.

 

"I appeal to kind-hearted individuals for help with my granddaughter’s education and tools to restart my noodle business," Jidapa implored. Their survival relied on boiled rice water, which a neighbour captured on video to solicit help, resulting in the outpouring of support they received.

 

Despite her father’s illness and missing school days, Ploy has maintained an impressive GPA of 3.5 at Bansuan Udom School and dreams of pursuing further education to support her family.

 

Their condition came to public awareness when a local ice cream vendor noticed them eating plain rice and decided to share their story online. This act of kindness prompted Phra Khru Thawornsatthakhun to organise immediate assistance and encouraged the broader community to contribute.

 

For those inspired to help, donations can be made directly to Jidapa Thiraphanan through her Krung Thai Bank account, number 202-0481-367, Bang Pakong branch. This story not only highlights the power of community and compassion but also offers a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those in poverty and the life-changing impact of altruism.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-23