Parents carry autistic son in basin through floodwaters to reach hospital

CHACHOENGSAO — 6 October 2026, A family in Chachoengsao faced treacherous floodwaters to get their autistic son to a hospital for a scheduled medical appointment, carrying him in a large plastic basin through chest-high water.

The touching scene was witnessed on Tuesday in Ban Bang Phaniang, Village 2, Khu Yai Mi subdistrict, Sanam Chai Khet district, where flooding has affected the community for 11 days.

Khu Yai Mi Subdistrict Administrative Organization Mayor Thongchai Phromphithak and Khu Yai Mi subdistrict headman Sanan Phromphithak were delivering relief bags to residents affected by the flooding when they saw a couple carrying their son in a large black basin and moving through the fast-flowing water.

Sanan asked the couple what they were doing and learned that they were taking their autistic son to the hospital for his scheduled appointment. The boy also had a high fever, making it necessary for the family to seek medical care despite the dangerous conditions.

The mayor then instructed his vehicle to move in and pick up the family, helping them continue their journey more safely.

Thongchai said that although floodwaters that had inundated the area for more than 11 days had begun to recede, some communities remained under chest-high water.

One of the most dangerous areas is the Lom Choi intersection, where water from the Si Yat Reservoir continues to flow rapidly into the area. Small vehicles are unable to pass through the flooded section.

Local authorities have therefore organized teams to monitor the situation around the clock and assist residents affected by the flooding.