What is it like to live with Cerebral Palsy: Q&A with Singapore’s Paralympics star Xui Zen Ng

Marie France Asia: How does Cerebral Palsy affect your day to day life?

Xiu Zhen Ng: Well, I feel normal. I do not feel that I am any different from other people out there. It does not have great impact in my everyday life though.

MFA: You have recently taken part and represented Singapore in sporting events in England and South Korea, etc… How do you feel about your achievements?

XZ: I’ve trained very hard for both competitions. I am very happy that I can improve in my sailing in terms of speed and endurance. I am proud to be able to fly our Singapore flag.

MFA: Do you think Singaporeans have enough knowledge about CP? How do they react to it in general? 

XZ: Yes, I think more people are aware of CP now although it is still not a very well-known condition like Down’s Syndrome or Autism. There are some people who still react negatively especially if the physical condition is very obvious and severe, but in general I feel that Singaporeans are becoming more aware of persons with disabilities.

MFA: What drives you in life and who is your inspiration?

XZ: I enjoy sports and it is an integral part of my life. I hope to be a sportswoman in future.

MFA: What would be your advice to people living with the condition?

XZ: I will encourage them to go out and make more friends. We have to be confident with ourselves and focus on our abilities. There are a lot of nice people out there who can understand us.

MFA: If you could tell people one thing about CP, what would it be?

XZ: We are special people with our own abilities, not dis-ability.

MFA: What is the one message you’d like to give people during this holiday season?

XZ: No matter who and what we are, we should always strive to be a blessing to others.
MFA: What are your plans and hopes for the future?

XZ: I hope to be a sportswoman. I want to take part in more competitions and to open up my horizon. I also hope to earn more money for myself and my family.

For more information about Cerebral Palsy, you can contact CPAS on +65 6585 5600

During the holiday season, The Body Shop is teaming up with CPAS to send a child to a class with every specially selected gift you buy. The initiative aims to provide experiential learning classes for children 6 years old and below through the Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC). A selection of The Body Shop festive gift sets is available here.

Rana Wehbe