Frances Cashman is an extraordinary person. She has written several books and has had articles published in the UK, the US and at home.

Her success story is all the more noteworthy because Frances suffers from cerebral palsy - a condition which makes it extra difficult for her to do things.

But Frances, from Mayfield, in Cork, is used to fighting her own corner, not least people's ignorance and prejudice about her condition.

What makes her extra special is her cheerfulness, charm and enormous enthusiasm.

She is proud of her other books, but this new one is extra special. It is her first book to be published by a mainstream publisher, Collins Press, Cork.

The collection of children's stories, which deal with birthdays, has proved to be an enormous hit with children. And I have personal experience of just how good it is.

I tried it on my child, Sam, aged 8, a very discerning critic, and he loved it.

Frances attended the Lavanagh Centre when she was younger, and it was there that she learned to type.

She is full of enthusiasm about all her educators, especially those in Mayfield Community School.

She loved writing compositions so much that when her father, Pat suggested she make a career out of writing it seemed a good idea.

Her dream career was teaching, but she is delighted that her writing will now reach so many new readers. Apart from her book writing Frances, who lives at Boherboy Road, Mayfield, Cork, frequently writes for Ireland's Own and Celtic Heritage, and is dedicated in her approach, working away at her computer for up to eight hours a day.

It's one of many achievements you wouldn't think possible, unless you see beyond the physical to the person behind and realise the intelligent person she is.

Frances' style of writing is clear and concise. It flows in such a natural way it gives the illusion that writing is easy.

Publicist Linda Kenny who works with Frances on behalf of Collins Press said that she finds Frances an inspiration.

"She has such zest and enthusiasm for life and she's very intelligent and entertaining.

"She's very talented and has a great future as a writer.

"She has overcome harder odds than most to become published. It's her determination I admire most."

Frances' mother, Pauline said "We're very, very proud of Frances.

"She's worked hard and never given up. She spent hours at her computer and she sent a lot of work off and even when it was sent back she kept on going.

"She never stopped believing in her abilities. Frances doesn't know the meaning of the word boredom."