 A
12-year-old’s Tsunami Story
The ocean looks harmless now. Small waves lap up on the sand as if life continued as
normal. But since December 26th Hendri has not experienced anything normal. Now the ocean
that once sustained his family with a livelihood, brought fear to Hendri’s heart.
As the OB Indonesia relief team helped survivors around him, the 12-year-old stood alone
with eyes closed remembering that fateful day.
The incident was still so clear in his mind. It all happened so fast. As people tried
running away from the crashing waves, Hendri’s father screamed at his son to run
as fast as he could and grab onto a tree. Hendri saw his mother running with his brother
and dad not far behind. Then the giant waves swallowed his family.
With tears streaming down his face, he shared, “When I was in grade 5, I told
my mom I wanted to be a doctor when I grew up. When I was in grade 6, I told her again
that if it makes you happy I want to be a doctor when I grew up. But now that she is
gone, what am I supposed to do? Now that I have no parents, how am I going to live?”
Hendri is not alone in his grief and shock. OB Indonesia’s relief team is bringing
food, medicine, emergency supplies and comfort to the many survivors in the Banda Aceh
area. The slightest sliver of hope is slowly returning to those who are left to pick
up the pieces.
A month has passed since the tragedy. Schools opened back up this week in the region.
Hendri knows his parents would want him to live for his goals. “I just want to
say thank you to all who has been helping me, heal me and console me,” commented
Hendri. “I am so grateful to be attended, I don’t feel lonely. I accept
what has been done, really.”
Would you please help us to continue to bring comfort, food, medical care and emergency
supplies to tsunami survivors? Orphans like Hendri?
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