Pla’s life suddenly hit rock bottom when her 22-year-old daughter tragically died in the December 2004 tsunami. Pla said she felt lost and empty, not knowing where to turn or what to do. Half the people in her village of Ban Nam Kaem lost their lives and Pla’s house was gutted by the killer waves. Pla soon heard about the Step Ahead Training Center—a humanitarian organization financially supported by Operation Blessing Foundation (Thai). Pla enrolled in a rehabilitation course to help her deal with her grief. She also took advantage of their free courses in English and Computer skills.

Later Pla took Step Ahead’s Cooking/Bakery training to better equip herself to find a job. After completing the course, Pla turned from student to staff when she accepted a job at the Step Ahead Café. This opportunity became a platform to further develop her cooking skills and she soon found a job as chef at an area resort.

But there was still one more blessing in store for Pla. After the tsunami, Pla’s village had been relocated and new houses had been built. But the 65 houses were open below—vulnerable to thieves and rainstorms. Operation Blessing renovated all 65 homes, including Pla’s, by enclosing the downstairs area. The homes now have more living space that is safe and secure. 

“Thank you Operation Blessing for showing love to all the people in my village,” said Pla. “And thank you Step Ahead for the opportunity to help me learn new skills.”