(VOVworld) – A friendly and sociable Nguyen Phuong Anh, 11th grader at Viet Duc school in Hanoi, was born with ‘glass-bone disease’, a genetic disorder causing fragile bones. In spite of this disability, Anh’s face is radiant with smiles always shows optimism. UNICEF recently published an article praising Phuong Anh as a universal outstanding child with disability.
Phuong Anh spoke at the launching of the UNICEF’s report “The State of the World’s Children 2013: Children with Disabilities” |
Competing in the Vietnam Got Talent 2012, Phuong Anh performed her favorite song This is me, which impressed the jury and the audience with her clear and energetic voice. Phuong Anh says: “Participating in last year’s Vietnam Got Talent was great. Most of all I had an opportunity to express my passion and people recognized me more by my capability than my disability. After the contest, I have more self-esteem and feel more confident. On top of that, I am able to inspire other people which makes my life more meaningful.”
16-year old Phuong Anh had fractured bones over 30 times. She is unable to play like her peers but is confined to a wheelchair. Music, singing, and strong determination have brought her a positive disposition and energy for life. The image of this lovely girl attending charity programs in a wheelchair has warmed the hearts of many people, particularly people with disabilities. Phuong Anh recalls: “Over the past year, I participated in charitable events benefiting the community, particularly young people with disabilities. I learned a lot and met many disable friends like me. I can share the story of my life to more friends.”
Phuong Anh said she is luckier than other people with disabilities because she studies in a friendly environment with support from teachers and friends. She is called “doll” by her classmates. Pham Thu Hien, one of her classmates, says: “Phuong Anh is good at English and I regularly ask for her help. She is a key singer in my class. We were impressed by her performance at the opening of the new academic year. We all love Phuong Anh.”
UNICEF has honored Phuong Anh as a global outstanding child with disabilities. At the launching of the UNICEF’s report “The State of the World’s Children 2013: Children with Disabilities”, she, on behalf of millions of children with disabilities worldwide, gave a touching speech. Phuong Anh talks about her future plan. “I will continue my high school studies. I always want to entertain people by singing or by other forms of performance. I also want to get a higher education degree.”
Phuong Anh’s radiant smiles and clear singing have sowed the seeds of optimism in other people with disabilities.
Le Phuong