The first three days of this new born male calf were as dramatic as
they were terrifying. Witnessing the death of his mother the terrified infant ran for cover in the forest.
Even before his first taste of mother’s milk the panic stricken
youngster was left alone, confused and forced to fend for himself.
During his escape he tumbled down a hill and got wedged between two
trees. In his efforts to escape their unyielding grip he suffered
deep wounds and abrasions. This poor orphan must have felt afraid,
bereft and without hope.
It will never be known how he survived those
three days without food or water but, miraculously, he pulled
through. Lek received a phone call from the Karen tribesman owner of
Ging Mai's (Little Tree) mother. He asked if she could take care of this tiny
elephant. No one expected him to survive. Lek and two volunteers
rushed to the area to take charge of the poor animal.
She was shocked by what she saw. Ging Mai was sunburned, suffering
from exposure and almost completely dehydrated. His skin peeled, raw
from the unrelenting sun and the wounds cut deep to the bone. In the
throes of death and groaning weakly an agonizing death appeared
certain. His ears were very sore from his head being lodged
between the trees. Healthy calves would flap their ears repeatedly to
keep cool and for balance. Ging Mai's hung limp, the gristle and
cartilage strained and torn as the poor calf suffered atrocious
injuries.
Naturally, after witnessing the killing of his mother, Ging Mai
was afraid and distrustful of human contact. It took hours of coaxing before
accepting milk from Lek. When he built up enough courage the youngster
plodded, reluctantly over to her and sniffed the bottle. He drank
greedily receiving the first nourishment in his short, tragic life.
After a few hours he would
travel to his adoptive home. Pitifully weak and vomiting throughout
the journey Lek feared that he would not make it. Milk and medicines
were offered throughout but he showed little interest as his agony continued.
Physically and mentally exhausted he reached the area where he would
be nursed. Lek’s sister Ben provided space for him to settle,
recuperate and relax. Screens were erected to keep the flies and
mosquitoes from his wounds. He was tended day and night by Lek and the
kindly volunteers as his strength slowly began to return. Jodi Thomas
from the USA and Australian Leonor Gonzo's kind contributions and
tireless efforts kept Ging Mai from sliding into an irreversible coma.
The infant warmed to their attention. His shyness and suspicion of humans began to
wane as he gained
mental strength and confidence. He began to discover things, much as
any baby would. His curiosity leading to playfulness as his wounds
began to heal. He was very affectionate to those who helped him.
Visitors bearing gifts of milk powder and medicines helped aid his
recovery and were gratefully received by Lek and Ging Mai.
It appears that Ging Mai has a chance. Hope for the future and a
place of sanctuary has been provided for him. Hopefully the scars of
distress will heal and his future will prove more fortunate than his
wretched early days.
Thanks again to the volunteers who helped make this youngsters life
so much better!
