If you live in Thailand, you may have heard of a popular Thai rock band known as Bodyslam. A few years ago, their frontman, Artiwara ‘Toon’ Kongmalai rose to the status of 'national hero' by running from the bottom of Thailand all the way to the top..
In 2017, the Thai superstar ran 2,215 kilometers over 55 days, from the bottom-most province of Yala, all the way up to Chiang Rai, as a means to gather awareness and funding for the severely under-budget ministry of public health. He was hoping to raise $21 million US but a surge of public support and donations over the month and a half journey bolstered him well past that mark to nearly $34 million.
He is lauded and loved as more than just a rockstar. He has become a national treasure in The Land of Smiles.
But, it looks like Toon isn't just going to sit back an rest on his laurels.. This past weekend saw him back out hitting the pavement for charity again. This time in the Northeast of Thailand, locally known as Isaan..
Starting at the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge in Nong Khai, Toon and his entourage covered 187 kilometers over the course of 2 days, finishing up at the Khon Kaen Sports Stadium.
Charitable donations totalling 54 million Baht flowed in. Toon's foundation, Kao Kon La Kao Foundation, is planning to donate the money to impoverished hospitals in that region. Toon has made clear his plans to do similar regional charity runs in the south, north, east, and central provinces of the country.
If you live in Thailand and wish to contribute to his cause you can text “T” to 4545099 to donate 10 baht, visit any branch of 7-Eleven, or use the SCB Easy App if you have a Siam Commercial Bank account. Donations will be accepted through July 31.