Children's stories from Myanmar (Burma)

Cyclone Nargis hit the southern delta region of Myanmar on 2 May, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Almost half a million children are without basic shelter, supplies and clean water. Their situation is desperate.

Thursday 8 May 2008

Khine Khine talking to SCiM staff in Thingyangon township monastry.Khine Khine, 9, has been forced to stay in a religious hall for shelter. She says, "I was so scared. It's the first time I have seen such a thing. I had to stay on my mother's lap. I don't want this kind of accident to happen again. The only thing I want is to have my house rebuilt as soon as possible. I want to stay with my family again, I don't want to stay in the shelter. It's not my home. Please help rebuild my home."

Shun Le Le Win, 5, has one simple wish: "I want my house to be rebuilt again."

Hlaing Myat Mo, 12, says, "When the storm came, the roof of my house was totally ripped off. The water came in and I was so cold. I was scared that my grandmother and my mother would die because of the storm. I don't want them die rather - I would die for them, so I said prayers. I was also worried about my father because he was at sea. I haven't had any news from my father. I am so worried. I just want to live with my family together again. The thing that I most want is to have my house rebuilt so that our family can live happily together again."

Su Su Sandi (middle) and Shwe Sin Moe (flowe dress). Shwe Sin Moe, 10, is now staying with relatives and says, "I was so frightened when I saw the storm and heard the roaring sound. I was saying prayers all the time. My house was totally destroyed. I want my house rebuilt because I don't want to live with my relatives because they are not my parents and they also are suffering. Please help us if you can."

Su Su Sandi, 12, who's been forced to stay in a religious hall for shelter, says, "I was so scared. The roofs were flying and I was frightened that they would come and hit me. I also feel so sad to see that my school was totally destroyed. School should start soon and I'm worried that we won't be able to attend school in time. I want my house and my school rebuilt."

How you can help

Help children and their families in desperate need.