I Aspire to Be Like Grandma Sengheang

The ongoing border conflicts have devastated countless families - closing over 600 schools and displacing more than 200,000 Cambodians.

While delivering relief packages to refugee families, we met Grandma Sengheang, a 71-year-old caregiver who fled her village near the Thai-Cambodian border with her grandchildren.

Founder Victoria asked with curiosity and compassion, “Grandma Sengheang, where do you come from and are your grandchildren under your full care?”

Grandma Sengheang responded, “I am now 71 years old. I came from the border where there was a lot of bombing.”  She continued, “My son is a single parent in the army. I care for his children.”

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Victoria asked, “We heard about the bombing at the border too.  When that happened, what did you do?”
In times of war, there are no winners, and it is often the children and the elderly who suffer the most.  

Grandma recounted, “I don’t know many things. When the bombing began, I dug a hole in my yard. That’s where we hid, hoping to escape any danger.”
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The situation escalated quickly, with fighter jets and drones overhead. Grandma realized she had to take her grandchildren and seek shelter and safety.  She said, “We had no time to pack. We walked for a long time and reached Siem Reap with just a few belongings.”

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Grandma found refuge in a rural village called Chea Smonn, where she received a warm welcome and support from her fellow Cambodians.

Her grandchildren are now attending a local primary school. Although life has changed dramatically, at least they are safe and able to move forward.

Grandma Sengheang, you are an inspiration to many! Your story of strength, resilience, and gratitude will forever remain in my heart. 🧡

Join us to make a difference for Grandma Sendheang and many more: https://bit.ly/PS_Donate2025


​Story written by: Volunteer Aziza Monroe