Phuket cigarette vendor to receive new leg

PHUKET: The Prostheses Foundation of HRH The Princess Mother has approved a new prosthetic leg for Wilaiwan “Wan” Damnui, a Phuket cigarette vendor born with a deformed leg and no hands.

“I was notified by the Prostheses Foundation of HRH The Princess Mother that Ms Wan would indeed receive a new, free prosthesis,” confirmed Pornsri Suthanaruk, Director of the Regional Environmental Office.

“Ms Wan must travel to the foundation in Chiang Mai to have the prosthesis fitted. She must also train with it there for a week.”

The foundation will provide accommodation for Ms Wan, but will not be able to cover the cost of transportation and meals, said Dr Pornsri.

“Once she arrives, the Environmental Office in Chiang Mai will pick her up and take her to the foundation. We are currently making travel arrangements for her.”

Ms Wan expressed her deep gratitude to the foundation for providing her with a new leg.

The news of Ms Wan’s impending new prosthesis provides a happy ending to a story that began with Australian man Derek Clarkson. Mr Clarkson, a long-time Phuket visitor, was inspired by Ms Wan’s independence and positive attitude toward life, so he reached out to the Phuket Gazette for help in getting Ms Wan a new leg (story here).

“Because of Mr Clarkson’s help and donation, I am ready to go to Chiang Mai at any time. Thank you Mr Clarkson for giving me this chance,” Ms Wan told the Gazette today.

“Thank you very much.”

— Saran Mitrarat