Harrowing Facts About Haing S. Ngor, Hollywood's Most Inspiring Survivor
From A Nightmare To Hollywood
Haing S Ngor is best known for his Oscar-winning performance in 1984’s The Killing Fields—but few know his harrowing backstory and unspeakably tragic end.
1. He Just Wanted To Help People
Born in 1940, Haing S Ngor grew up in a privileged family in the Cambodian village of Samrong Yong. While in his life, he would endure highs and lows of hard-earned achievements and unbearable suffering, he began his journey trying to help people.
2. He Went Into Medicine
Throughout his life, Ngor tried to influence the world for the better and help others, starting early on. Training in the medical field, he eventually specialized as both a gynecologist and obstetrician. Although he would stay in this line of work, fate had a cruel twist in store for him.
3. He Became A Soldier
As he furthered his career, Ngor didn’t limit his medical expertise to the general public. He later joined as a soldier in the Cambodian military, specifically as a medical officer. Even before this, though, he met someone very special.
4. He Met The Love Of His Life
For all the pain he would go through, Ngor found happiness early on in his life. While in medical school, he met Chang My Huoy, and it wasn’t long before the two married. Sadly, before long, something threatened the happiness they shared.
Larry Bessel, Los Angeles Times, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
