Sky's the limit for cerebral palsy novelist

Zhao Dongmei, a woman with cerebral palsy, uses a keyboard with her toes. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Despite having cerebral palsy, 54-year-old Zhao Dongmei finished the 270,000-word autobiographic novel There Is No Disability In A World Of Love by typing with her feet.

The novel tells a range of stories in Zhao's life, including the love between her and her husband, Bouyinhshig.

On Aug 24, Bouyinhshig, a 52-year-old man of Mongolian ethnic group, will drive her around the country to travel.

Their vehicle, a motor tricycle, has been upgraded for the occasion. New tires have been installed, along with a new repairing toolkit and sofa seat, specifically prepared for Zhao.

Zhao, born in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang province, was diagnosed with severe cerebral palsy several months after her birth.

Cerebral palsy is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance and posture before, during or immediately after birth. Patients often have poor coordination, stiff and weak muscles, and tremors. They may also have problems with sensation, vision and hearing, as well as swallowing and speaking.

Zhao has no problem with hearing, but cannot speak clearly, and can only use her right hand and feet.