Heroic officer sells fermented fish online after losing legs
A 36 year old explosives ordnance disposal officer from Narathiwat has been selling fermented fish online to support his family following a tragic bombing incident that resulted in the loss of both his legs. Despite the change in his physical condition, Sergeant Worawit Naratna remains undeterred in his efforts to earn a living.
On May 20 last year, Worawit, known as Puen, was injured in a bombing incident in Narathiwat province. Currently recuperating at home in Lam Pam subdistrict, Mueang district, Phatthalung province, he has embraced the challenge of selling fermented fish, a popular local product, online.
Initially, he managed to sell between 10 and 20 orders daily but as his story circulated on social media, demand surged to as high as 1,000 orders per day.
Worawit revealed that after being discharged from the hospital, he faced stress due to his inability to walk and the financial strain. With a monthly salary of just over 20,000 baht (US$585), loan repayments reduced his take-home pay to only 3,000 baht (US$88) monthly.
Despite these challenges, he persevered for the sake of his wife and young son in kindergarten. The fermented fish business became a lifeline, gradually gaining traction through social media shares.
Reflecting on the day of the bombing, Worawit recalled the explosion that took his legs and the immediate concern for his family. He entrusted his son to a close friend, fearing he wouldn’t survive.
Heroic officer
However, after seven months in hospital and recovery at home, he remained determined to heal and avoid becoming a burden to his family.
Encouragement from over 3,000 people online who commented on his story provided him with strength. His 34 year old wife, Lalita Sunseng, mentioned that their family dynamics changed dramatically when Worawit became disabled.
Although there was initial hope for a permanent job with the Phatthalung Irrigation Project, which would have provided financial stability, this expectation was not fulfilled. Lalita currently works as a daily wage earner, making just over 300 baht (US$9) per day.
Worawit’s prosthetic legs were provided by a German company, allowing him to practice walking two hours each day, thanks to a makeshift walking rail built by relatives.
Officials from the National Police Office have assured him that he can return to work, possibly relocating him to a position closer to home in Phatthalung province, reported KhaoSod.
For those interested in supporting Worawit and his family, orders for fermented fish can be placed through Lalita Sunseng’s Facebook page or by calling 093-739-1355. Each pack, priced at 200 baht (US$6), includes five items, with options such as pla duk ra and krachud bags available.
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