Life after a recent landmine accident in Cambodia: Neng’s story
Landmine accidents continue to occur in Cambodia, even decades after the conflict ended.
Neng, 54, from Preah Vihear province, lost her leg just six years ago after stepping on a landmine while collecting bamboo in a forest area she did not know was dangerous. Her experience is a reminder that these accidents are not confined to the past. They continue to affect lives today.
After the accident, Neng had to wait for her body to heal before receiving her first prosthetic limb. Like many prosthetic users, she has since needed replacements over time. Through APOPO’s support, she has been able to access prosthetic limbs provided by our partner Humanity & Inclusion (HI). APOPO supports transport to and from the rehabilitation center and clinic, which are often far from home and difficult to reach without assistance. This support has helped Neng maintain mobility and continue daily life after a relatively recent injury.
“The new prosthetic makes such a big difference in our lives”
“My name is Neng. I am 54 years old and I come from Preah Vihear province. I am married and I have eight children, six boys and two girls. The oldest is 36 and the youngest is 18.
Today I live with my husband and my granddaughter, who is nine years old and goes to school. My husband works in the military, and for our daily living we depend on his income and sometimes support from our children, who already moved out and have their own work.
Before the accident, I stayed at home and sold breakfast noodles to help support the family.
The accident happened when I was 48 years old, only six years ago. I went into a forest area with my husband to collect bamboo. We separated for a while, walking in different directions, and I stepped on a landmine. I had never been to that place before, and I did not know it was dangerous.
Only after my accident the area was finally cleared, so no one else would be hurt in the same way.
My husband heard the explosion and came running to find me. He brought me out of the forest on the motorbike and took me home, and then our neighbor drove me to the hospital. When I arrived, the doctors amputated my leg. I stayed in the hospital for one month before going back home.
I received my first prosthetic after one year, because the bone needed time to heal before I could use it safely. Later on, APOPO and HI supported me in renewing my prosthetic. This is my third time receiving a new one from them.
For the first prosthetic, I stayed at the clinic for a month to learn how to walk again. APOPO has helped me a lot, covering all transport costs to the clinic, taking me back home, and supporting me with daily food allowance while I stayed there. I am very thankful for this help.
The process for getting a new leg is impressive. On the first day they measure everything carefully. Three days later, the new prosthetic is already ready for testing. They adjust it to make sure it fits comfortably. In just about five days, you can walk out with your new leg. It is fast, efficient, and it makes such a big difference in our lives. I hope this support will continue, for me and for many others in the community who need help to walk again.”
