Best introduction post ever. I really am glad that you were able to get through all of that despite the horrendous treatment the Khmer Rouge put their fellow Cambodians through. I have read a few books by survivors as well as documentaries, but to hear a story of a person that is on the internet right in reach to talk to is really something.
It sounds like you had some culture shock when going into the Netherlands and perhaps some PTSD from what you were exposed to? I would like to learn a little more about that transition. You look great and I hope you are doing well now that you have lived for nearly 30 years. :)
Thank you, @justicepirate! That's such a nice comment.
Yes, our family had a huge culture shock when we arrived in the Netherlands. I have never been diagnosed with PTSD, but I would not be surprised if some in our family would have it. If I remember correctly, 50% of all people who have directly experienced the Khmer Rouge rule are suffering or have suffered from PTSD. And if I remember correctly, around 50% of their children although they may not have directly experienced the KR, suffer from depression before the age of 30. I was personally diagnosed with chronic depression since the age of 14/15 and with adjustment disorder, which I eventually overcame.
I will write a follow-up article on some more memories from Khao I Dang camp and our early years in the Netherlands. Despite the culture shock and several depressive episodes, we were also helped a lot by people here. We received second-hand clothes, the Church welcomed us, and despite language barriers we were able to build good relationships with people in our surroundings. :)