Vichheka Sok

This article was written when I was working for World Vision Cambodia.

Sreynich: My father is no longer a drunkard

In the past, twelve-year-old sponsored child Sreynich’s family experienced many difficulties caused by her alcoholic father.

“I was so scared of my father whenever he was drunk because he beat my mother and destroyed things in the house: plates, spoon, pan, glasses. He used insulting words to me and other neighbors who were trying to help,” says Sreynich.

“Our house was just a very small cottage. It was really hard to sleep when it rained as our old thatched roof had several holes. My family was the poorest in the village. Everything was just bad for the family. I could not focus on studying and I feel ashamed recalling the things that happened in my family.”

Sreynich’s father, Sopheak Chea, 42, was known as the drunkard who always wore just an old scarf with no shirt on. Every day from the early morning until evening, he was drinking and smoking. Sopheak was an irresponsible person in the family; he never cared about his daughter’s study or worked. He beat his wife for no reason and never learned from others to improve himself. He always used insulting words with others in the village, and especially to his daughter.

It was Sreynich’s mother, Sophorn Nov, 36, who worked so hard alone as a factory worker to support the family.

Sreynich says, “I want to be a good doctor because I want to earn more money and look after my parents’ health.”

Through the help and support of World Vision, Sreynich’s wish is much closer to reality.

“World Vision staff became involved with my family and they kept encouraging my father to think about his health and the future of the family,” says Sreynich.

“Today, my father is a good father and he has completely given up drinking alcohol. He’s gradually quit smoking too. Everything is good in my family now. I am an outstanding student now and I can focus more on studying.”

Sitting close to his daughter, Sopheak says, “I thought many times about choosing between alcohol and family. I feel so shameful about my previous behavior. I love my family so much. I thank World Vision for valuing me and helping me to make amazing changes to my life.”

“I have attended many World Vision trainings. I used to drink alcohol before attending the training. I was so bored at first, but I started to notice the benefits as I kept accepting their invitations. Since then, I have learned how to save money. I asked myself how to be a good father and do well for the family. Through what I have learned and the encouragement of World Vision staff, I am working to improve myself and try to be a useful person for the family especially for my daughter.”

“I was especially interested in trainings on how to raise chicken, agriculture, and make compost (natural fertilizer). And to earn more income, I use my skills as a carpenter to make bamboo beds for selling. I also work as a bicycle and motorbike repairman in the village. Everything I earn I save in a barrel at home, and I keep a part for my daughter for her studies,” he says.

“My father was able to build a bigger house. And he raises many chickens in the cage that he made. He has two cows. He also dug a pond storing water for daily use. He now drinks tea instead of alcohol. He has many friends in the village and he’s really good to my mother and me. I love him very much,” says Sreynich.

“I am happy to share with others who enjoy drinking alcohol and encourage them to give up it and see the longer way for the future of the family. Alcohol will never benefit our health and it’s a waste of time,” says Sopheak.

“I attended the trainings conducted by World Vision and I am happy that I have learned a lot. I love my family.”

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