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An inspiring writer with a unique perspective

Bonnie Chan not only has a moving story to tell about her unusual life, she is also extremely open about what made her a writer, and what she's aspiring to.

Bonnie published her first book I Have to Move On (in Chinese) in July 2009 before joining the OUHK last September to pursue her Bachelor of English Language Studies (Honours) degree. And moving on is a constant theme for this persistent young lady, who's never had the luxury of walking without pain or difficulty.

'I was born with cerebral palsy and have since gone through various types of treatment, including many that were still experimental,' said Bonnie. Time and again it would have been so easy for her to find excuses to give up on her future, but she has always chosen to press on.

That is not to say that Bonnie never feels frustrated with her situation, but she said she's not the kind of person who could easily share her feelings. 'You can't always bend other people's ears, and sometimes they can't really understand you,' she said. Writing opens a way for Bonnie to express herself. 'While people may find my book inspiring and motivating, the truth is, I wrote to express my own feelings more than anything else!'

Sitting in the new electric wheelchair that her family has bought her, Bonnie told us she has enjoyed her university life so far and finds the campus facilities user friendly. The academic faculty members have been caring too: 'They noticed I couldn't write quickly and made allowances for that.'

'I have made friends here too, and we discuss assignments and exchange views about life,' she continued with a smile. Bonnie writes a blog and believes her language skills will continue to improve over time. 'I hope to get a writing job of some kind when I finish my degree study.'