Tragedy at CCT
It is with the deepest sorrow that we share the tragic news that 5 year old Jendar Heng died on Sunday 26th September 2010.
The CCT children, along with 11 staff and volunteers, were taken by a generous volunteer to the Green Park Swimming Pool for a lovely excursion and lunch. On all waterside excursions the younger children always wear floatation devices, but on this occasion Jendar removed her floatation vest, which resulted in a tragic drowning accident. Despite the best efforts of Tara, the staff and volunteers to administer first aid and the actions of doctors at the hospital, Jendar was unable to be revived.
Tara had a special bond with Jendar and is stricken with grief.
Jendar arrived at CCT two years ago, and from the first moment made her mark as one of CCT's funniest, cheekiest, cutest and affectionate characters! She was popular amongst all the staff and very close to all her CCT 'brothers' and 'sisters'. Playful and clever, mischievous and a bit of a dare devil, CCT was never short of laughter, love and lots of hugs whenever Jendar was around.
The funeral started on Sunday the 26th of September in the evening and Jendar was cremated at the Buddhist temple on Monday September 27th in the afternoon. The final ceremony was held on Sunday the 3rd of October. After the Buddhist monks chanted, the procession went to the Battambang river with a beautiful basket of offerings including some of Jendar’s ashes, photos and flowers on a small decorated bamboo raft. They took a little boat to the middle of the river and Tara placed the bamboo raft into the water. It will float down stream all the way to the great lakes of central Cambodia.
All the children at CCT are extremely close and Tara, the staff and volunteers are working to support and care for the children during this time. The staff and children have also all begun grief and trauma counselling.
Tara is in deep mourning. She would like to pass on her gratitude to all those who have sent their love and condolences. She said it is the knowledge of all the love and support behind her that will carry her through this tragedy. Her love for the children will ensure that in time she will bounce back and continue her work for CCT, with renewed passion and vigour.
We hope to start a swimming school program open to all Cambodian children in Jendar’s name.
Tara would like to share with you a video she made in memory of Jendar - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mY2SnBQs8ys
