Stories of Defection

Hello, I am a representative from Blooming Padauk. Below, we describe the impact from some CDMers who are receiving food support, thanks to Better Burma. We understand and sympathize with the difficulties of CDMs, so we are trying to provide food every month. However, there are times when there are no donors, so we are unable to provide monthly food. Food supply helps to meet the most basic needs of a person's survival. We thank Better Burma and all their donors who have helped us as we try to achieve our freedom.

Here are success stories from beneficiaries.

Story 1

I am a sergeant with more than 40 years of experience serving in an infantry unit.

My children said, "Dad, will you do CDM?" I asked what that was. To unite with the people and fight against the military dictator, they said. I didn't have the courage to begin with, I thought. I'm too old. I don't know what to do if I leave the army now. I was afraid that it would not be suitable even for eating and dressing outside.

When I left and came here, everything was new and everything was free and easy for me. It is true that it is difficult because there is no more salary and house to live in, but thanks to the donors who donated food, the family was comfortable.

Now, because I stood on the side of the people, I have no job. Even though I no longer have a home to live in, I am thankful for the fact that I am not hungry for food while bringing food. I am especially grateful to the donors who provide support for our family's food. I would also like to say thank you for supporting the soldiers who remained in the army to raise their heads and say, "You see, we are on the side of the people and the truth, so we are not starving."

Written By CDM Sergeant.

Story 2

Our family could not accept the arbitrary coup, so I consulted my husband and left the army. After that, they reached a small village on the Thai-Myanmar border and took refuge. Recently, as the army came in a column, our family had to flee again with only one piece of clothing while crossing the Moei River. Once when he left the army, When you cross the Ten Rivers and escape, you have to start all over again. The cost of living in the other country was huge for our family. The lives of CDMs like us who don't have enough money have to save everything. You can even try to find basic food such as rice and oil for a month.

At this time, providing rice and oil food to CDMs feels like saving our lives. Now, the rice, oil, and canned fish rations provided by Blooming Padauk have been enough support for our family to eat for a whole month. I can safely say that other CDMs will feel the same as me.

Written By CDM soldier's wife

Story 3

Since everything is expensive in Mae Sot, after I left the military, I find that buying rice and oil is like a huge burden. Therefore, I was very happy when Blooming Padauk donated food. It was as if a great burden had been lifted from my head.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all the donors who supported the team and the Blooming Padauk team for their responsible donations. May everything be fine and healthy. Let the military dictatorship fall as soon as possible.

Written By CDM Sergeant