In a stunning turn of events in Nonthaburi, Thailand, 65-year-old Chonthirat Sakulkoo was declared dead by her family and placed in a coffin, only to wake up moments before her cremation at a local temple. Doctors later revealed she suffered from severe hypoglycemia, a condition that caused her to appear lifeless but allowed for her full recovery after quick medical intervention.

This incident, which unfolded in late November 2025, has captivated people across Thailand and beyond. It highlights the rare but possible risks of misdiagnosing death in cases of extreme medical conditions.

The Dramatic Discovery at the Temple

Chonthirat’s brother, Mongkol Sakulkoo, had been caring for her during her two-year illness in Phitsanulok province. When she stopped responding and seemed to have no pulse, the family assumed she had passed away.

They transported her body over 500 kilometers to Wat Rat Prakhong Tham temple near Bangkok for cremation. Temple staff prepared for the ceremony, but just as it was about to begin, they heard faint knocking from inside the coffin.

Workers quickly opened it and found Chonthirat moving and breathing. They alerted authorities and rushed her to Bang Yai Hospital, where she received immediate care.

This quick response prevented a tragic mistake. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic yet relieving, with family members in shock as Chonthirat regained consciousness.

What Caused the Apparent Death?

Medical experts at the hospital diagnosed Chonthirat with extreme hypoglycemia, where blood sugar levels drop dangerously low. This can lead to symptoms that mimic death, such as unconsciousness, weak pulse, and shallow breathing.

Hypoglycemia often affects people with diabetes or other health issues, and in severe cases, it can cause seizures or coma. Chonthirat had been unwell for years, which likely contributed to her condition.

Doctors stabilized her with glucose treatments and monitoring. By the following day, she was alert and able to communicate.

Such cases are rare but not unheard of. Similar incidents have occurred globally, like a 2023 case in Ecuador where a woman was found alive in her coffin after being pronounced dead from a stroke.

Here are key facts about hypoglycemia that explain Chonthirat’s ordeal:

• It occurs when blood sugar falls below 70 mg/dL, leading to confusion or fainting.
• Severe episodes can cause loss of consciousness, resembling death without proper checks.
• Quick intervention with sugar or medical help usually leads to recovery.
• Risk factors include diabetes, certain medications, or prolonged illness.

Family’s Journey and Emotional Toll

Mongkol Sakulkoo shared that the family followed traditional procedures, obtaining paperwork to transport what they believed was a deceased relative. They did not seek a formal medical declaration of death, relying on visual signs.

The long drive to the temple added to the stress, as they grieved during the journey. Upon learning she was alive, relief mixed with guilt over the near-miss.

Chonthirat returned home stable by Sunday evening after the incident. Family members visited her in the hospital, expressing gratitude to the temple staff and doctors.

This event echoes other family stories worldwide. For instance, in 2024, an Indian man woke up on his funeral pyre due to a similar misdiagnosis, prompting calls for better protocols.

Lessons for Medical and Legal Protocols

Thai authorities reviewed the case and confirmed all parties followed existing rules. However, the incident exposed gaps in end-of-life verification, especially outside hospitals.

Experts suggest mandatory medical checks before declaring death in non-clinical settings. This could prevent future scares.

Public reaction has been strong, with social media buzzing about the “miracle recovery.” Discussions focus on improving awareness of conditions like hypoglycemia.

To illustrate the timeline of events, here’s a simple table:

Broader Impact on Public Health Awareness

Stories like Chonthirat’s raise questions about how often such errors happen. Global data from health organizations shows thousands of hypoglycemia cases yearly, but few reach this extreme.

In Thailand, health officials are using this to promote diabetes education. Simple steps like regular blood sugar checks can prevent crises.

Related events include a 2025 case in the Philippines where a child woke during a wake, also due to low blood sugar. These highlight the need for vigilance.

As 2025 data from the World Health Organization indicates, diabetes affects over 400 million people worldwide, making awareness crucial.

What do you think about this incredible story? Share your thoughts in the comments below and spread the word to raise awareness about health checks.