It all began on a seemingly ordinary April day last year, at a row house nestled behind a bustling market in Rayong province’s Wang Chan district. Somboon and his wife, Liang, typically employed as rubber tappers, accepted a temporary job offer from their employer, known only by the pseudonym “A.” For a daily wage of just 400 baht (around US$12), they embarked on the task of dismantling the aging structure.
The couple had hoped for a straightforward job, unaware of the looming danger that awaited. On the second day, calamity struck. With a sudden, chilling snap, a crane cable gave way, sending a heavy basket plummeting down upon Somboon. The consequences were dire, leaving him with three severely fractured neck vertebrae—his nerves compressed and his body forever altered.
Doctors acted swiftly, performing intricate surgery in a bid to salvage his health, yet Somboon’s condition remains grave. He lies immobile, demanding round-the-clock care, his life now tethered to relentless medical expenses.
Amidst this turmoil stands Liang, Somboon’s steadfast 53-year-old wife. Her days are marked by sacrifice, stretching every baht and penny to afford Somboon’s care. The high cost of his prescribed liquid food has even forced her to blend rice—an ingenious solution born out of sheer necessity. The financial burden is relentless, compounded by mounting monthly expenses that soar beyond 20,000 baht.
The initial offer of consolation, a mere 20,000 baht from their elusive employer, has long been depleted. “A” has since vanished, leaving the couple to navigate this tumultuous journey alone. In a bid to sustain their expenses, Liang resorted to liquidating their modest savings and selling her cherished gold necklace—a symbol of the past sacrifices she’s willing to make for the one she loves.
As she faces this daunting financial impasse, Liang’s plea resonates beyond her immediate circle. On April 8, she turned to the media, too seeking the attention of kind-hearted individuals who might extend a helping hand. Her hope is not solely for financial aid but also for accountability from her wayward employer, a plea broadcasted for the world to hear.
In a world where stories flit in and out of public consciousness like fleeting whispers, Liang’s tale stands as a stark reminder of resilience amidst despair. It underscores the extent individuals can go to for their loved ones, and how life, despite its unpredictability, compels us to adapt and fight for justice, even when the odds seem insurmountable.
Beyond the borders of Sisaket, in the bustling cities of Thailand, life continues its relentless pace. Yet Liang’s tale, echoing from the quiet corners of Suk Sawat, serves as a testament to the fortitude of the human spirit, daring to hope against hope for a brighter, more compassionate tomorrow.
This is a tragic story, but the real villain here is the employer ‘A’. They should be held accountable for abandoning Somboon and Liang in their time of need.
Absolutely! Employers need to ensure the safety of their workers. Leaving them in such a state is criminal.
Exactly! If ‘A’ continues to evade responsibility, it sets a dangerous precedent for other employers.
But what can actually be done legally to hold ‘A’ accountable?
The legal system can be a long and arduous road, especially in cases with elusive individuals. But pressure from media and public can sometimes bring them to the spotlight.
Why is she blending rice for him? Isn’t liquid food a necessity here? This seems negligent on her part.
It’s not negligence; it’s desperation. She’s doing the best she can with limited resources.
Shows how economic constraints force impossible choices. It’s a survival tactic, not negligence.
Why aren’t local authorities stepping in to help this family? This is a huge oversight by the government!
It might not be as simple as it sounds. There’s oftentimes a huge backlog in such cases. Plus, smaller towns have less visibility to resources.
Governments often prioritize larger issues. This is where communities need to step up to support each other.
Thank goodness for media outlets that bring such stories to light. This is vital for communal support and awareness.
True, but what about media sensationalism? They sometimes exploit these stories for their own gain.
Yes, but in cases like this, awareness can lead to positive action. Liang needs all the help she can get.
This is just one more reason why private companies shouldn’t be allowed to dodge responsibility so easily.
Unbelievable that employers can just vanish like this. There needs to be stronger workforce protection laws!
Liang deserves a medal for her resilience, not just aid. She’s an incredible role model for us all!
The negligence is clear, but how much will the public actually remember? People forget too quickly.
It’s true, public memory is short-lived. Continuous media attention is necessary to keep momentum.
Faced with such adversity, what more can she do but fight? I hope there’s a silver lining for them.
Can the international community do more? Maybe NGOs should step in where governments fail.
Every time I hear of stories like this, I’m reminded of how much more compassion the world needs.
I’m honestly amazed by her strength. If only more people knew about these daily struggles!