Sung.
Sung is only 2 years old and, despite his young age, is already battling leukemia. Thanks to the generous donations to the Thai Child Development Foundation’s healthcare program, he was able to undergo a critical operation. A damaged vein was widened and a permanent tube was placed, significantly reducing the pain from his monthly injections. This example demonstrates how indispensable specialized care is.
Currently, 68 Thai children, like Sung, are receiving the life-saving care they urgently need through this program. Thanks to the ongoing support of TCDF’s healthcare program, caregivers can respond swiftly in emergency situations. Your contributions truly make a difference and give children like Sung a chance at a healthier future. Together, we provide hope and improvement!
20 Years of TCDF: A Journey of Impact and Growth
The Thai Child Development Foundation (TCDF) began 20 years ago as a dream of Roos Tieges. She soon found a partner in Ingrid van der Straaten, and together they decided to dedicate their lives to improving the future of underprivileged Thai children. They met in Songkla, South Thailand, and have been working together ever since with the aim of giving as many children as possible a chance for a better future.
The Beginning in Phato
The first steps were taken in Phato, where Roos, Ingrid, and the Thai volunteers Jack, Nat, and Win started their work on Run’s farm. The first children, like Maria, Dome, May, and Amm, were taken in, and the first visitors and interns joined. Many of them are still involved with TCDF to this day. Eventually, the project moved to its own piece of land on “the Mountain,” marking the beginning of the growth that laid the foundation for what TCDF is today.After 20 years, sustainability has become one of TCDF’s core values. Thanks to the efforts of thousands of volunteers, under Ingrid’s leadership, and with the support of sponsors, TCDF continues to make sustainable contributions to healthcare and education for the children.
Last weekend, the anniversary celebration took place in the Netherlands, where many people took the opportunity to congratulate Roos and Ingrid on this milestone.
The Involvement of Mieke and Herman
Mieke shares: “I came to TCDF in October 2007 as a volunteer and stayed for six months on ‘the Mountain’ in Paksong. It was an unforgettable experience. Together with other volunteers, I dragged stones from the river to make pathways, cut bamboo, shoveled heavy black clay, and sang by the campfire. I also went to a small school in the middle of the rainforest, taught there, and stayed with the children’s families.
Meanwhile, we had Thai lessons, swam in the river, and had the best time together. Words cannot describe what these experiences have given me, and I highly recommend everyone pack their backpack and go!”
TCDF has always held a special place in my heart; we’ve returned several times, and we still feel closely connected.”
The Bike4Kids Team
In January 2023, Mieke and I visited TCDF again. Together with Roos and Ingrid, we shaped the idea for the sponsor ride from Hanoi to Paksong and founded the Bike4Kids team. We are proud to link this ride to the incredible work of TCDF, and we are confident that our financial contributions will directly benefit the children who need it most.So, what are you waiting for? Support us and help improve the future of underprivileged Thai children!
Preparations and Sponsorship: Kilometer by Kilometer Toward a Better Future
With just four weeks left before our departure to Hanoi, we have already covered 7,400 training kilometers. Donate €5 per kilometer and directly contribute to a better future for children in Thailand.
We aim to make the Bike4Kids newsletter a valuable source of information, ensuring you are always up-to-date with the latest news about the trip and know how to follow and support us. Our goal is to expand our network as much as possible.
You can help us tremendously by sharing this newsletter with friends, family, or collages who might also be interested in our work.
Thank You
Thank you for following our adventure in Asia. Would you like to help make a difference for underprivileged Thai children? Every contribution, no matter how small, brings us closer to our goal.
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