Ban Kunthy was a 17-year-old soldier fighting near the Thai border when he stepped on a landmine in 1985. He now lives outside of Phnom Pehn, Cambodia, with his wife and tow children. His prosthetic leg was provided by a USAID-funded rehabilitation center. Source: Noah Hendler
“When I was a soldier, I thought that if I
ever stepped on a landmine and survived I would be too ashamed to live. I thought I would never be able
to work without legs.
In the hospital I was surrounded by other people who had also stepped on mines. I realized I was not alone
and decided to live.
When I walked with crutches my hands were not free. But now
that I have a leg again, I earn money washing motorbikes and am able to provide for my family.”