My name is Sorn Ram. I was born in 1965 in northern Thailand.
I began my life working in the teak logging industry, where my days were spent pushing, pulling, and rolling massive logs. It was hard, exhausting work—especially for a baby elephant like me, whose body was still growing.
As a young elephant, I was known for being stubborn and full of energy. Because of this, humans pierced my ear so a chain could be attached—a mark you can still see at the top of my right ear today. Our ears are among the most sensitive parts of our bodies, and this experience left a lasting impression. Later, I was moved to Surin Province in eastern Thailand, where I was forced to beg on the streets for food and money.
When I was around 30 years old, I was relocated again, this time to Koh Samui. The island was beautiful, with lush jungle and coconut plantations, and walking on softer ground was kinder to my feet than the boiling-hot pavements of the city. However, I was still made to carry a heavy metal chair and tourists every day. I hoped life would improve, but for ten long years I walked the same route over and over again, in rain or sunshine. During this time, I injured my leg, and the wound became badly infected. Veterinarians did come to help me, but they explained that true healing would only be possible with long-term rest and recovery.
Eventually, Maew learned about my life and my injuries and brought me to Samui Elephant Haven. For the first time, I felt truly safe. My mahout here takes wonderful care of me, and my wound is healing well—it is no longer as painful as it once was. The entire team treats me with kindness and patience, and I am slowly learning to relax.
Now, for the first time in my life, I can sleep peacefully, resting comfortably on my large sand bed. My mahout and the team take gentle care of me, and my injury continues to improve each day. There are also plans to build me a new, spacious home in the future, so I can live more comfortably as I continue to heal. After everything I’ve been through, the thought of a calmer, gentler life ahead fills me with hope.
