Newsletter - Chiang Mai Disabled Center

On or about April 30th, we will be welcoming American citizen, Mr. John Huston as a new full time staff member to intern one year before assuming his permanent appointment as Foundation Coordinator to replace retiring founder Don Willcox, who is soon to reach the fortunate age of 77. John brings new blood, new ideas, new energy, a plethora of urgently needed IT skills, and the freshness and optimism of youth. As soon as John is settled in, we will hold a welcoming reception to introduce John to the community. We are hopeful that the cozy rooftop apartment (we are currently in process of building for John at the Disabled Center) will be ready for his occupancy upon his arrival. Thanks to all who donated the excellent and lovely furnishings for this new resident apartment. The only items missing from our wish list remain a used TV and microwave. Thanks again for such wonderful response!

We expect the imminent arrival of our 2nd container filled with 500 knock down wheelchairs thanks to Mr. Don Schoendorfer and Free Wheelchair Mission of Irvine, California. These chairs will be assembled by our staff and distributed free to poor and needy rural and remote area disabled persons throughout north Thailand. We feel incredibly blessed and thankful to partner with Free Wheelchair Mission as together we instantly transform hopelessness into smiles and hope.

In late March, our devoted caregiver for Baan Piranan, and the person who makes everything run so wonderfully was admitted to the Chiang Mai Nakornping Hospital with a very serious medical emergency which consequently involved multiple major surgeries, ICU care, and several very stressful days where her very survival remained at risk. We are delighted to inform you that she is now on the mend and hopes to return home in a few days thanks to the support of many doctors (including our local friend Dr. Pan and the Foundation’s medical advisor Dr. Robert Chen who not only provided Mrs. Singjai with extraordinary medical advice but also with their prayers and moral support). During this medical emergency, Mrs. Singjai’s mother came to our rescue as the children’s temporary caregiver along with members of our Baan Piranan staff. The children’s safety and welfare were therefore never at risk and all remained in good order at Baan Piranan. For all those who helped during this emergency, we extend our sincere thanks. Mrs. Singjai will require several weeks of at-home rest before she is fully recovered, but the future is hopeful.

Not only has Mrs. Singjai’s mother taken excellent care of our children, but she has nurtured the vegetable garden into a showplace of fresh produce. Children and staff are already enjoying cucumbers, lettuce, greens of all kinds, and “the corn is as high as an elephant’s eye”. This quiet 60 year old farm widow, who has never had the luxury of an education, puts many a “green thumb” to shame. Especially mine!

“We Couldn’t Do It Without You” For All The People Who Keep Us Afloat APRIL 2010 Update – Happy Thai New Year

“We Couldn’t Do It Without You”
For All The People Who Keep Us Afloat

APRIL 2010 Update – Happy Thai New Year