First-Grader Born Without Hands Wins Penmanship Award

Yahoo/ABC News ^ | 4/20/2012 | lauren sher

[DemforBush]

Annie Clark, a 7-year-old born without hands but with a can-do spirit, has won a national award for penmanship.

The first grader at Wilson Christian Academy in the Pittsburgh-area was awarded the Nicholas Maxim Special Award for Excellent Penmanship at a surprise assembly at her school Wednesday, where she was presented with a trophy and $1,000 prize from Zaner-Bloser, the textbook publishing company that sponsors the contest...

[DemforBush]

Really a great little story. The spirit and determination of this girl warms my heart. It never fails to amaze me what can be accomplished through persistence, hard work, and just plain old telling yourself "Oh, yes I CAN!"

[dog breath]

Character is often what people do when life knocks them down. A little girl with a big heart and more determination then most will ever have. The Air Force used to give Young Heroes awards to kids overcoming challenges, definitely a candidate if they still have that program.

[bgill]

Who knew they still taught penmanship.

[9YearLurker]

What an inspirational little girl!

But is that level of first-grader penmanship now exceptional?

[Mycroft Holmes]

Pretty excellent example of writing with your mouth.