by Siv Ashley (Author), Lynn Bemer Coble (Editor), Jennifer Tipton Cappoen (Designed by)
Siv Ashley started her life as a normal child in an average, happy family in Cambodia. She was surrounded by loving family members. On April 16, 1975, everything changed. Red soldiers evacuated her family with thousands of Cambodians and marched them to work camps to work in the government's rice fields. Children worked 12-plus-hour days. They were fed only rice in water and were nearly starved to death. Siv witnessed Red soldiers kill countless children and adults. For four long years, she faced the possibility of imminent death daily. Siv's father clung to faith and-no matter what happened-reminded her, "God is always with you, if you believe it with all your heart. Believe and you will go to a place called America one day." Siv's enduring faith and prayers helped her survive against all odds. From heartbreak and loneliness to hopefulness, Siv's story is compelling. Today she shares her story of faith and survival in her new home in America.