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!