Thomas

Thomas is an 11 year old boy from a mountainous region of South East Asia. He lived in a small village with his parents and siblings. One day, whilst Thomas was playing outside his house he was hit by a long range weapon, traumatically amputating the right leg and badly damaging his left leg. 

With the nearest hospital a days drive away, For The One, having been informed of the incident almost immediately after it had happened, had to act quickly to ensure any chance of survival. A small medical team on the ground were able to control the bleeding and stabilise Thomas just enough to transfer him to a bigger hospital that could deal with the complexities of traumatic injuries on this scale. Thanks to the quick actions of all those on the ground, Thomas eventually had surgery that not only saved his remaining leg but also saved his life. 

With very minimal pain relief, multiple surgeries and being far away from home, Thomas was overwhelmed and desperate to go home. Just weeks after the incident, his brother was killed in a second horrific incident. This is the reality of war! Overwhelmed with grief and unspeakable trauma, the family chose to return home to say goodbye to their son/brother. This is not the choice we would have wanted for them, but we were learning, and continue to learn, how to navigate and balance the need for medical treatment alongside the complexities of trauma, grief and war. With most mobile data and phone lines cut in this region, communication was incredibly difficult but we continued to be in contact with the family where possible and monitor recovery as best as we could.

For The One was able to cover all the costs of Thomas’ medical bills including all transportation cost, accommodation and food. It was also an opportunity to offer a variety of support to the whole family including friendship, love and hope. Recently, Thomas and his older sister made the long journey to seek further advice on a potential prosthetic leg. Just 8 months after the incident, Thomas was accepted for assessment at a prosthetic clinic specialising in children and they were ready to receive him immediately. The day the first photo was shared of Thomas standing with his new prosthetic leg we felt two things. On one hand our hearts ached as we recalled the trauma and pain this little boy has suffered, and we grieved everything he has lost. But on the other hand, we were overwhelmed with pride and joy to see Thomas standing upright for the first time in 8 months and with a smile on his face. He is alive and for that we are so grateful. But it doesn’t end there, with his physical healing well on its way, our heart is to see Thomas find complete healing emotionally too. 

Thomas continues to thrive as he adapts to life with a prosthetic leg. He will need ongoing help and support, particularly as he grows but we are so proud of him.