Library Expansion: A New Chapter at B.K. Kee Patient House

The past two months at the B.K. Kee Patient House have been full of meaningful activities and remarkable progress. From puzzles and art outings to the always popular "B.K. Kee Has Talent" show, our regular visits have brought joy to both patients and their caregivers. I have felt incredibly fulfilled by the happiness we’ve been able to share.

What I’m especially thrilled to report is the significant progress on our library expansion project. In February, I sent out a request for financial support, and thanks to the generosity of many kind individuals, we raised just over half of the necessary funds. The remaining amount was graciously covered by the Bob Carroll Memorial Fund. Bob, a former CMIRC member, left a portion of his estate to support the house and the patients he cared so deeply about.

Construction officially began on April 19 with an expected completion date of June 19. As of May 30, photos show the project is nearly finished. What started as a simple concept has evolved into something far more impressive than I imagined.

Here are a few highlights of the construction:

• The library space has been expanded to more than triple its original size.

• Electrical systems have been upgraded with outlets every 2.5 meters.• Ceiling light fixtures and soffit lighting have been installed.

• Three wall-mounted fans have their own circuits, and the space is ready for future air conditioners.

• All electrical wiring is hidden behind drywall, creating a safer and cleaner look.

• A battery-powered emergency light has been added to the porch.

• Tinted glass windows and doors help reduce glare and heat.

• Decorative tile frames and a brand new roof and ceiling give the room a finished, welcoming appearance.

• BCMF is funding additional work, including extending the roofing and pouring new concrete in the courtyard.

With five weeks of construction behind us, I can confidently say the contractor has gone above and beyond. The craftsmanship and attention to detail are outstanding.

To celebrate this transformation, we are planning a grand reopening ceremony on Sunday, June 29, at 11:00 a.m. Everyone is welcome.

Looking ahead to the second phase of the project, we are seeking donations of books, furniture, and computer equipment. We are interested in books in English, Thai, and Burmese, including fiction, nonfiction, textbooks, and especially children’s books. For furniture, we are looking for tables, desks, and bookshelves. I will be donating a bookshelf and an HP multi-function tank printer. We are also happy to accept monetary donations.

All donated items will be presented at the grand opening ceremony on June 29. If you wish to contribute, please email me with your ideas.

The B.K. Kee Patient House, nestled in the Suthep foothills, has been a CMIRC-supported project since 2015, beginning with repairs to a storm-damaged roof. Managed by the Burma Children Medical Fund, the house provides a place to stay for patients and their caregivers while receiving medical care in Chiang Mai. Most patients are referred by the Mae Tao Clinic in Mae Sot for specialized treatment not available at the clinic.

Thank you to everyone who has supported this project. With your help, we are not only building a better facility, we are also building a stronger, more compassionate community.