In May 2007 I had the privilege of being allowed to do some photojournalist work in Siem Reap’s largest children’s hospital. Instead of just photographing the beautiful temples of nearby Angkor, I wanted to photograph the real people and their struggles. The work done mainly by volunteers at the hospital is amazing. So is the love, care and generosity of the child patients and their families who often care for them in the hospital. Some were in good spirits, some looked like they were in terrible pain. Without full air conditioning the heat was stifling. The malnourishment of some children was shocking to see.

At first I found it difficult, voyeuristic and even uncaring to stick my cameras into the space of the children and their families waiting for or recovering from treatment. But I intended to use my photos to help the hospital fund raise and to raise consciousness about the condition of the people and the good work of many trying to help them. So, as uneasy as it felt, I knew I should not turn my camera away. Nobody likes to see suffering, especially a child suffering, but in the expressions of those photographed you can also see hope, love, care and dignity. I hope you can look at these photos and read the few words I written about the work of the hospital. I hope you might be interested enough to learn more or donate to or support this hospital or maybe other projects doing similar good work. Photography should not only be about beautiful landscapes, sexy models, fashion or smiling loved ones; it is surely at it’s best when it can move and educate. Please leave your comments and if you vote for this gallery more people might hopefully see it.