Optimistic about life

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By YP cadets Crystal Tai and Holiday Chan
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Childhood adversity did not stop Yeung Siu-fong, write YP cadets Crystal Tai and Holiday Chan

By YP cadets Crystal Tai and Holiday Chan |
Published: 
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Yeung Siu-fong writes and draws with her foot.

Even though she lost her arms in an accident when she was nine, Yeung Siu-fong's smile is still bigger than most people's. She remains very positive, and is determined to do her best in life.

Yeung, who moved from the mainland to live in Hong Kong in 2003, aged 14, has just written her autobiography, Stand Tall. It tells the story of how she has stayed optimistic and overcome adversity.

"Every time I face an obstacle, I never tell myself, 'I can't do this. I have to give up'," says Yeung, 25. "Instead I will ask myself, 'Why can't I do this?' and 'How can I do it?'."

Yeung lost her arms when she touched a live electrical cable by accident while she was playing.

Although some people may think she is "ill-fated" or "unlucky", she says she has never let her physical disabilities stop her from trying to achieve great things.

She taught herself to write using her right foot, and taken up hobbies, including drawing, swimming and athletics.

Yeung hopes her story will brighten the lives of others. "Whatever difficulty you are encountering, don't just give up easily!" she said at the launch of her book on Monday.

She says her parents have encouraged her to remain optimistic. Growing up in a poor family also forced her to be independent. Many Hong Kong children have domestic helpers to look after them, but she had to do household chores and take care of her younger siblings.

"I treasure my life very much. Many people feel pressure from work; the city is full of negativity. But I don't get upset. I am just thankful to be alive," Yeung says.

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