Getting hit by a train and losing both legs is an experience that would plunge anyone into despair.

But not for Thai teen Nitcharee Peneakchanasak. Her strength and plucky personality touched many Singaporeans, who donated more than $400,000 to her.

The 15-year-old was in Singapore to sightsee and to brush up on her English when the accident happened.

While waiting for the train at Ang Mo Kio MRT station on April 3, she fell onto the tracks.

When her father came to Singapore to visit her in the hospital, she told him: "It's going to be all right."

She has since returned to Thailand and attends the prestigious Chitralada School, after being offered a place by Thai princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

Nitcharee was largely unaffected by the recent floods that hit Bangkok because she lives in a high-rise apartment.

"School is currently in session and there are many interesting activities here. I try my best to attend as many activities as I can," she told TNP.

She has also been fitted with prosthetic legs.

"I don't really feel sad about the incident because I always try to think positively to help myself," said the teen who gets recognised on the streets of Bangkok.

"Most of them are pleased with me for being brave despite losing both my legs."

So what does she think the new year will bring her?

Nitcharee, who held a 3.9 grade point average from her Princess Chulabhorn School in Trang, Thailand, said: "I'm really looking forward to getting good grades in the new semester."

benitaay@sph.com.sg

This article was first published in The New Paper.