I Defy Disability and Here's How I Did It (by Jackie Chionh)

My name is Jackie Chionh, and I'm a multi-talented individual with a passion for various pursuits. Currently, I work as a Sports Assistant at the Deaf Sports Association, a Docent Guide at Enabling Village, a Busker, a Magician, a CPR+AED Instructor, and an MOE Instructor.

As I reflect on my life story, I find myself tracing back to a pivotal moment in 1995. That year, my father and I were involved in a devastating accident when a pickup van collided with our motorcycle, sending us flying off the bike upon impact.

While my father escaped with only minor injuries, I was not as fortunate. I was rushed to Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH), where I spent more than five days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

I sustained severe physical injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, which resulted in cognitive impairment and damage to the nervous system affecting the right side of my body. This led to a permanent disability in my limbs.

I spent a year in a wheelchair, but through intensive rehabilitation at Ang Mo Kio Rehabilitation Centre, I made a remarkable recovery, learning to walk again and regaining the ability to perform daily tasks.

Since then, my left hand has become my dominant hand for almost everything, including mastering magic and card tricks. In addition, I've developed the remarkable ability to use my left foot to cut and trim the nails of my left hand with impressive dexterity.

Primary School Life

During my primary school years, neither I nor my fellow students fully comprehended the implications of my physical challenges. While my academic studies proceeded normally, my family took a cautious approach, restricting me from participating in physical activities like Physical Education (P.E.) and Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) for most of my six years in primary school. This was done to prevent any potential exacerbation of my existing disability.

This led to a deeply unfulfilling experience throughout my primary school years. However, in a welcome turn of events, I finally had the opportunity to join the Computer Club as a Co-Curricular Activity (CCA) during my final year in Primary 6, which brought me immense joy and satisfaction.

Secondary School Life

Following primary school, I entered the next phase of my educational journey: secondary school life. Unfortunately, this marked the beginning of significant challenges. I was frequently subjected to teasing and bullying due to my disability.

The taunts were often hurtful, with names like "Spiderman" or "Undertaker" being hurled at me, a cruel reference to the splint I wore on my right hand.

The relentless bullying took a devastating toll on my mental health, causing my confidence and self-esteem to plummet to an all-time low. I sank into a deep and crippling depression, feeling utterly helpless and alone. To avoid my tormentors, I would often take a longer route home or to other parts of the school, just to escape their constant harassment.

Despite these challenges, I persevered and maintained my focus on academics, ultimately achieving a remarkable Top 10 position in my school and receiving frequent awards from the podium, a testament to my hard work and determination.

Unfortunately, the bullying escalated to a new level of cruelty when my peers began to boo and humiliate me on stage as I received awards, further eroding my already fragile confidence and self-esteem. The constant ridicule became so unbearable that I started to intentionally underperform academically, hoping to avoid receiving awards in front of my classmates and thereby spare myself the agony of their taunts.

The bullying ultimately reached its peak, pushing me to the brink of desperation and contemplating a transfer to a special school as a means of escape from my tormentors. This harrowing experience serves as a poignant reminder of the immense struggles and emotional torture that countless individuals with disabilities endure in schools worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for greater support and inclusivity.

Polytechnic Education

After completing secondary school, I secured a place at Ngee Ann Polytechnic to pursue a diploma in Engineering Informatics. This marked a significant turning point in my educational journey, as I finally found myself in an environment where most people demonstrated a genuine understanding and acceptance of disabilities, offering encouragement and support instead of bullying and ridicule.

Despite the supportive environment, I continued to grapple with deep-seated insecurities and low self-esteem. Unlike my peers, I lacked the confidence to express interest in girls or form romantic connections. Additionally, I often shied away from taking photos with friends, feeling self-conscious about my disabled right hand and perceived flaws in my physical appearance, including struggles with body weight issues and a negative body image.

Not only that, but I also felt a deep sense of loneliness, struggling to form meaningful connections with others due to our vastly different hobbies and interests. Whenever my peers enthusiastically discussed the latest Adidas shoes or trends, I would feel utterly disconnected, like an outsider looking in, unable to contribute to the conversation.

Ultimately, I successfully completed my Diploma in Engineering Informatics by diligently managing my assignment workloads and supplementing my studies with additional modules through the "Diploma Plus" program. This strategic approach enabled me to maintain a laser-like focus on my academic objectives, shielding me from distractions and allowing me to stay committed to my goals.

The Struggles of Finding Employment

With the GPA score I obtained from my diploma, I was unable to secure a spot in a degree program at a local university. Left with no other option, I took on the responsibility of supporting my family, including my aunt and grandmother, and began searching for employment. However, finding a job proved to be an even greater challenge due to my disability. Despite my best efforts to source a job on my own, I was unsuccessful, and even attempts to secure a position through employment agencies yielded no results.

At that point in time, I frequently found myself overcome with despair, crying myself to sleep with tears of sorrow soaking my pillow. My mind was consumed by negative thoughts, leaving me feeling utterly useless and worthless. I struggled with existential questions, wondering why I was born human and even doubting my purpose in this world.

How I Overcame the Challenges to Be Who I Am Today

From a young age, I had an innate belief in my capabilities, knowing that I could achieve just as much as anyone else despite my physical disability. However, I soon realized that others often perceived me differently. Whenever people noticed my limp or my disabled right hand, they would immediately question my abilities, focusing on my limitations rather than my potential. It was as if they saw my 'disability' before they saw me, the person.

There's a timeless saying, "Never judge a book by its cover." I've always been driven to defy the doubts of others and be treated with the same respect and dignity as anyone else, rather than being perceived as a second-class citizen. I longed to be seen beyond my physical limitations and valued for my abilities, skills, and character.

Of course, it was very hard to stay positive always and I struggled to overcome some of the challenges I faced along the way. I failed many times in trying to stay positive, confident, and happy. It was easier said than done.

However, I was resolute in my determination to pick myself up, dust myself off, and wipe away my tears. I sternly told myself that I had no other choice but to stay strong and self-reliant. I was determined to avoid eliciting pity from others, which is why I rarely approached people for assistance. On the rare occasions when help was offered, I politely but firmly declined, insisting on handling things on my own.

I used to be a people pleaser, constantly seeking approval and validation from others. But it was a draining and exhausting experience, like wearing a heavy mask to conceal my true self from the world. I was pretending to be perfect, trying to fit in and avoid standing out, so that everyone would treat me normally and not stare at me with pity or curiosity. But in the process, I lost sight of my own identity and authenticity, and I wasn't being true to myself.

The opinions of others are none of your concern. What truly matters is how you perceive yourself. So, I made a conscious decision to shift my mindset and embrace self-confidence and self-acceptance. I realized that if I wanted to see a transformation, I had to be bold enough to initiate it. Ultimately, the power to change lies within me, and I am the only one who can bring about the growth and self-improvement I desire.

I refuse to let others' opinions define my identity or limit my potential. Despite my physical limitations, I firmly believe that I am capable of achieving so much more. I make the most of what I have and strive to live life to the fullest. By stepping out of my comfort zone, I have overcome numerous challenges and pursued many activities that bring me joy. My goal is to become the best version of myself and make a positive impact on others. Volunteering and helping those in need not only brings me happiness but also allows me to spread smiles and make a difference in the lives of others.

That doesn't mean I'm immune to feelings of sadness, tears, or negative thoughts. I'm human, just like everyone else, and I experience a full range of emotions. There are times when I'll feel overwhelmed, and I'll manage those feelings on my own, even if it's difficult, often shedding tears when no one is watching. Despite the challenges, I make a conscious effort to put on a brave face and smile in front of others. I don't want my struggles to burden those around me or negatively impact their emotions. Before speaking, I always try to consider the perspective of others and be mindful of the impact my words may have.

As a Person with Disability (PwD), I've come to realize that the term holds a different meaning for me. While society defines PwD as "Persons with Disability," I prefer to see it as "Persons with Determination." Despite my physical challenges, I've achieved many things that many able-bodied individuals have not. With unwavering determination, I believe that all things are possible. In fact, I like to think of the word "IMPOSSIBLE" as two words: "IM POSSIBLE" - a constant reminder that nothing is truly impossible with the right mindset.

• I have completed over 40 marathons since 2012, including 13 vertical marathons since 2005
• I have received the Edu-Save scholarship award from 2004 to 2008
• I have skills as a one-handed close-up magician and cardist, specializing in magic tricks and cardistry
• I have been a para athlete with Para Athletics Singapore since 2016
• I have been a personal certified trainer since 2021
• I have completed the longest distance covered consecutively in 200 hours, totaling 2000km, as part of the Relay Majulah President Star charity event in 2019
• I have been active in various volunteering work, particularly in sports events
• I have worked as a motivational speaker
• I have developed a passion for Latin Dance (Salsa and Bachata) since 2020
• I have held a busking license since 2023

"Disability may have presented obstacles, but it has also fueled my determination to turn the impossible into possibilities."

If you're interested in booking me for magic shows, motivational speaking, or fitness coaching, please feel free to reach out through the following channels:

• Email: jchionh89@gmail.com
• Website: (link unavailable)
• Instagram: @thekops
• Tiktok: @onehandedprestige
• Facebook Page: One Handed Prestige
• Youtube Channel: One Handed Prestige
• LinkedIn: Jackie Chionh
• Website: www.jackiechionh.com