Monica McGhie's mother didn't even know she was pregnant when she hurt her hand and was given thalidomide to ease the pain.
Months later her daughter was born without arms and legs and she was told the baby would not survive.
The baby was placed in a corner to die.
But she let out a healthy cry and her mother took her home.
Fifty years on, Monica McGhie has her own art studio, has been scuba diving and is an advocate for people with disabilities.
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She is among more than 100 Australian and New Zealand thalidomide victims to receive compensation from drug company Diageo.
Ms McGhie travelled from Perth to be with her friend Lynette Rowe as lawyer Peter Gordon announced an $89 million settlement with the drug's distributors Diageo in Melbourne on Monday.
"I nearly cried," she told reporters.
"I never thought this day would come."
Ms McGhie said the money will make her life a lot easier and help her stay healthy.
"Life has been a daily struggle for 50 years.
"This settlement will not take that hardship away but it means I can look to the future with more confidence, knowing I can afford the support and care I need."
She also hopes she may be able to buy a home and take her 86-year-old mother on a cruise.
