THE word ‘hero’ is bandied around much too readily nowadays, but few really deserve such a nomination. In this issue of The BigChilli we feature someone who genuinely lives up to the dictionary definition of “a person of extreme courage.” He is Edwin Wiek, a softly-spoken Dutchman of steely resolve who devotes his life to rescuing and looking after animals injured by humans. Edwin was, and still could be, a successful businessman, but he realized in an epiphany that there is more to life than just making money. Against all kinds of odds, including physical threats from corrupt officials and nefarious traders in wildlife, he now runs a Rescue Centre near the beach resort of Hua Hin that provides safe shelter for more than 400 damaged animals. It’s certainly no money-making scheme and Edwin relies on the generosity of sponsors and a stream of volunteers to make the project viable.
His objectives also include naming and shaming those who profit massively by the exploitation and killing of Thailand’s precious wildlife. Every day, Edwin wakes to the possibility that he may not see tomorrow. But he carries on his wonderful work regardless. Is this not the real meaning of a hero?
His objectives also include naming and shaming those who profit massively by the exploitation and killing of Thailand’s precious wildlife. Every day, Edwin wakes to the possibility that he may not see tomorrow. But he carries on his wonderful work regardless. Is this not the real meaning of a hero?
