Bangkok: A 65-year-old woman from Phitsanulok, initially believed to have died, surprised her family by showing signs of life during her own cremation ceremony. The incident unfolded as relatives prepared to perform the last rites for Ms. Chonthirat at Wat Rat Prakong Tham. As her coffin was being carried into the ceremony, she unexpectedly knocked on it, indicating she was still alive, which led to her being rushed to Bang Yai Hospital.
According to Thai News Agency, the hospital's examination revealed that Ms. Chonthirat had not experienced respiratory or cardiac arrest but was suffering from hypoglycemia, a condition characterized by low blood sugar. Her brother, Mr. Mongkol, recounted that she had been bedridden for approximately two years and was mistakenly thought to have passed away in the middle of the night at their home. He had signed a death certificate and transported her body to the temple for cremation without embalming it.
The temple's abbot, Phra Kittiwachirathada, expressed relief at her survival and ensured that the temple would assist with her medical expenses. A patron of the temple also donated 10,000 baht to aid in her recovery.
Dr. Wichaya Wechayansringsarn, Acting Director of Bang Yai Hospital, stated that Ms. Chonthirat was conscious and stable, albeit slightly lethargic, due to low blood sugar and minor mineral imbalances. She received intravenous fluids and glucose as part of her treatment. Her relatives revealed a history of brain tumors and noted that she had been less responsive prior to the incident, leading to the mistaken belief of her death.
Ms. Chonthirat's condition is reportedly improving, but she remains unable to eat independently and is being fed through a tube. She is scheduled for further examination at Phra Nang Klao Hospital, where specialists will conduct an endoscopy to assess her digestive system. Her progress will be closely monitored over the next week.