USA: PARALYSED CHINESE GYMNAST CELEBRATES NEW YEAR

(17 Feb 1999) Mandarin/Eng/Nat
A young Chinese woman who was paralysed in a gymnastics accident has reached new heights in the United States.
Seventen-year-old Sang Lan was on Tuesday taken up New York City's Empire State building to help usher in the Chinese new year.
The youngster has been recovering in Manhattan since the accident happened during last summer's Goodwill Games.
SUGGESTED VOICE-OVER:
This young woman is doubtless hoping that the Year of the Rabbit will bring more luck than that of the Tiger did.
Sang Lan was left paralysed after a vaulting accident in the Goodwill Games last July.
She has since been living in Manhattan.
The young Chinese on Tuesday visited the Empire State Building to usher in the Chinese New Year festivities here.
Still paralysed from the chest down, Sang Lan was optimistic about her chances for a full recovery in the new year.
[SOUNDBITE: (Chinese)
"I hope I have more progress in walking in this coming year."
SUPER CAPTION: Sang Lan, former Chinese gymnast]
It's certainly an inspiring sight, and after looking down at New York City from one of the tallest buildings in the world, Sang Lan wished all Chinese a happy new year.
[SOUNDBITE: (English)
"I would like to say, happy Chinese New Year to all Chinese in the world. Thank you"
SUPER CAPTION: Sang Lan, former Chinese gymnast
Sang Lan's mother came along too, and was also looking towards a bright future for her daughter.
SOUNDBITE: (Chinese)
"My wish of the year is that I hope my daughter will be recovered and one day better than the other."
SUPER CAPTION: Chen Xie Fong, Sang Lan's mother
Sang Lan has been here throughout her rehabilitation, and has plans to return home to China in June this year.
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[@liltut3979]

Sang is such a strong woman, God Bless Her!

[@krissy7342]

So much love & respect for Sang LAN! Such a true fighter and symbol of courage! 🙏🏼💖💪🏼