At the beginning of 2025, one of STEF’s Trustees, Brian da Cal , visited our elephant hospital in Khok Kloi, Southern Thailand.
Brian has been a Board Member for STEF for over 3 years, and this was his first visit to the hospital. He was keen to fit in as much as possible during his short visit, and he definitely managed to do so!
The STEF mobile clinic vehicle in action.
Over three full days Brian was able to tour the hospital grounds to witness the incredible progression of the site over the past few years, see some of the projects STEF UK have been able to fund, and check on the progression of current projects.
“After three years working for the charity, nothing is as good as actually being there, shadowing the team and seeing first hand the work they do, always on call, seven days a week, all year round, to alleviate the suffering of any elephant that needs their help”.
Brian attended call outs in the mobile clinic with Dr Aon, visiting the Phuket Elephant Conservation Center and Phang Nga Elephant Park. He was also able to watch Dr Aon at work as she treated elephants within the veterinary hospital.
“It was wonderful to see the dedication of the vets and staff at the hospital as well as how much has been constructed over just a few shorts years, thanks for the generosity and vital support of our donors”.
Brian describes his time walking through the forest next to 62-year-old female elephant ‘Choosri’ as a highlight of his stay with the team at the Southern Thailand Elephant Foundation, knowing that the work we do from afar is helping to secure a better future for the elephants of Thailand.
Brian with Choosri, a 62 year old female elephant.