Mrs. Chum Yann, a 58-year-old individual, is currently undertaking the noble responsibility of caring for her beloved grandchildren. Unfortunately, she grapples with the burden of hypertension and diabetes, health conditions that significantly impact her daily life. Regrettably, due to the traumatic experiences she endured during the Khmer Rouge era, her memory has been deeply affected, leaving her unable to recall many details from that distressing period. However, amidst the hazy recollections, she vividly remembers being subjected to the arduous task of transporting dirt to construct dams in Mlech commune, where she was forcibly relocated as part of a mobile unit brigade. During her time in Mlech commune, Ms. Chum Yann felt compelled to obey the orders of the soldiers in order to safeguard her own life, as the consequences of defiance were severe. Tragically, she was deprived of adequate sustenance, enduring the cruel reality of being both undernourished and overworked. This harrowing period of her life, characterized by physical exhaustion and constant hunger, left an indelible mark on her wellbeing. In 1979, when the Vietnamese forces entered the region, Ms. Chum Yann experienced overwhelming fear, prompting her to flee from her village and seek refuge in the mountains. This decision was undoubtedly motivated by her instinct to protect herself from potential harm, as the uncertainty of the situation intensified her sense of vulnerability.
