GCSE students at Newbury College were moved by an inspirational presentation and dance performance by local young dancer Frankie Rae when she visited the Monks Lane campus earlier this month.
Frankie gave a presentation to students about how she has remained motivated despite her disability and struggles with depression, and imparted the techniques she has learnt to help her deal with them. Born with a condition called Holt Oram Syndrome, that causes defects in the hands, arms and heart, Frankie has had to undergo ten operations and have major reconstructive surgery on both of her hands.
Talking of why she was happy to share her story, Frankie said, "I wanted to speak to the students today to share with them the battles that I have faced and show them that no matter what you face you can still achieve your dreams".
Frankie's difficulties have not stopped her determination to pursue her love of dancing as a career. Dancing from a young age helped to save Frankie from losing the use of her hands and arms and also meant that she spent less time in hospital undergoing physiotherapy. She has danced for a number of local dance organisations including Italia Conti Associates Newbury and after Wilkes Academy of Performing Arts she is well on her way of achieving her dreams.
GCSE student Dean Miller who attended the presentation said, "Her visit was truly inspirational and has motivated the whole course to always try their hardest. We no longer say 'we can't', we now say 'we can try'. We learnt this from Frankie".
The visit concluded with a special performance of 'Hold your dream'.