Thai girl who lost both legs in MRT accident brings cheer to hospital patients
PAK KRET: A young girl in a wheelchair enjoyed the moral support of patients at the World Health Clinic every day
Ms. Nitcharee “Nong Than” Peneakchanasak, who lost both legs in an accident in Singapore six years ago, smilingly greets patients, listens to their problems, and shares her inspiring attitudes about how to beat the odds. “Moral support is crucial to patients struggling with illnesses or injuries,” said Ms. Nitcharee, now 21. “But while moral support is important, even more, meaningful is our strength of mind.”
She started working at the hospital more than one month ago under a coveted six-month contract. The World Medical Hospital has agreed to pay Nitcharee one million baht (S$40,600) a month under the contract, believing that her positive mindset will benefit patients. “She stands out from other candidates because she does not just deliver motivational speeches. She does what she has talked about. She embodies it,” said Dr. Kantaporn Harnphanich, deputy hospital director of marketing of the Thai division at the World Medical Hospital.
Ms. Nitcharee said she had never tried to fool herself into believing what is not real. “I live in the realities and live my life as happily as I can,” she said. The young, cheerful woman said that her desire to share these tips with others going through what she has led her to apply for the post of the patient-happiness surveyor.
“I know patients, in general, need moral support. So, I want to give mine to them. We can share our stories and empower each other.” She is also working on a plan to raise donations for foundations or organizations that provide prosthetic legs to those in need. Dr. Kantaporn endorses Ms. Nitcharee’s plan. “Our hospital is working on the project to raise funds for the underprivileged, particularly in regards to the provision of prosthetic legs,” he said. Source: Straits Times
