I am going to tell you a very personal story today about a boy who I met in Cambodia, the same age as me who was living at the Orphanage I had come to visit.
Chay Sovy, the moment I met him showed true signs of courage and bravery. Though when I had first talked to him he mentioned to me that he was too old to be staying in the orphanage for home care, so he had volunteered there for safety and shelter.
He wasn’t any different than me back then, and he is still no different today. Though I wanted to share an inspiring story for you all to show you that dreams really can come true.
As per usual we had met, added each other to Facebook and moved our separate ways (the typical traveller’s thought of ‘let’s be friends even though I am never going to see you again’ type of thing). Although Sovy was different, he was making casual conversation online that of which I responded to, but never really more. The day came when he had asked me for money and though I would give anything to help Sovy – in fact I had a lot to give (love, support, kind words) – but I had no money. This is the worst part of travel, when you meet some of the most inspiring people in the world and have so much to give but money, which they needed most.
Over the past 2 years a lot has changed for Sovy. He still supports the orphanage but has now moved into his own place and supports 2 of his brothers. He gives constant care and affection to his entire family (mother and 3 brothers) on a daily basis yet still has barely enough to cover the rent. He still has a ways to go, but is making it work.
So how did he get here? By following his dreams.
1. When did you start singing?
I started my singing when I was 13.
2. Who inspired you to start singing?
The people that inspired me to sing were my mum, my friends and all the people that know me.
3. What made you decide to go onto The Voice Cambodia?
Actually I decided to join The Voice because I was working in a restaurant and many people that came to eat in my restaurant listened to my singing and encouraged me to take the chance. My boss who also really likes my singing encouraged me go there.
4. If you could tell your life story in one sentence, what would you say?
About my life, I would say I have a very bad life because happiness happens to me very occasionally, only sadness.
5. What are your hopes and dreams for the future?
In the future I really want to meet a person that can help me with my face. I mean I really want to get my face treated for sure.
Of course what I promised him to be only 5 questions turned out to be a full blown conversation which led Sovy to answer a few more points for myself and you guys.
What happened to your face if you don’t mind me asking? I never did ask you when we met.
You know about 7 years ago before I came to live in the orphanage I was working in a car garage. I was in an accident caused by a gas explosion and burnt my hand, my legs and my face from the fire. This is what happened to me and to be honest I don’t care about my legs and my hand but I really care about my face. It is important for me to be able to face society.
The restaurant you work in, is that family owned? How did you get the job?
Actually the restaurant is owned by a Khmer man, not the family. I got the job because the boss knows that I am a good singer from the Voice Cambodia.
How many sisters and brothers do you have? Can you give me a small background on your family life?
To be honest, I have 3 brothers but no sister. 2 of them are staying with me and I support them. I also support my mum so it is quite hard for me to make enough money.
And Now, We Are Asking For Your Help!
We are not quite sure how to get the help that Sovy requires, but we are on a mission to do so.
I told Sovy that the scars are what make him who he is, it is a past that he doesn’t want to remember but that reminds all of the people around him how strong and courageous he is even today.
Regardless, I do understand the desperation that Sovy faces when he gets up on stage to sing in front of the world and doesn’t feel comfortable in his own skin. Sovy deserves the best and even though his scary past has now changed into a dream come true for Sovy – signing on The Voice Cambodia, generating more than 2,600 likes on his Facebook page in just over a month – Sovy’s real dream is to live a normal life.
So we are asking you all, my readers for a chance to help support us in finding Sovy the appropriate care and medical treatment that he requires. Sovy has estimated that the cosmetic surgery will likely cost around 8,000 – 9,000 US Dollars in a private medical institution in Bangkok, Thailand and we are on a mission to fulfill his dream.
PLEASE, if you have any advice, comments, references, media contacts, perhaps even donations, E-MAIL ME at giveforgranted(at)gmail.com
