A motorcycle accident in 1983 changed Lam Leung-ming's life. After regaining consciousness, he realized that he could hardly move, and that all sensation in his limbs was lost. He thought it was a dream. A few days later, he began to learn that he was in Queen Mary Hospital and that he had broken his spinal cord. His doctor and family did not disclose to him that he might have to rely on a wheelchair for the rest of his life.
In the first few months after the accident, Mr Lam recollects, "I could hardly accept the life-changing reality and therefore became very unstable emotionally. I felt very helpless and once had a suicidal intent." For the first three years afterward, Mr. Lam could not accept the fact that he had become a person with a physical disability. He only realized that he had been very fortunate after meeting those whose situations were even worse, as he did at one of Hong Kong's Cheshire Homes where he has been living for the past 19 years.
"Soon after my accident, I was transferred to MacLehose Medical Rehabilitation Centre for physiotherapy." The physiotherapeutic exercises helped to prevent sclerosis of his limbs. Since 1989, Mr. Lam has been the co-ordinator of HKSR's Rehab Volunteers. He has also been an instructor at the Vocational Rehabilitation & Retraining Centre, teaching the use of computer software.
Recently, HKSR has appointed him to be an ambassador promoting the image of HKSR and encouraging people with a disability to lead an active life and to develop their potential.
Mr. Lam eventually married one of his Rehab Volunteers, after overcoming many hurdles.
Mr. Lam shares three tips about re-adapting. Firstly, show a happy face to others all the time; second, learn to solve problems by yourself; and finally, develop a sense of commitment.
