Young Katie beats her disability to walk the ramp for London Fashion Week

Disabled people are breaking stereotypes everyday and proving that they can do anything. Like 11-year-old Katie Renshaw who has cerebral palsy. Katie, who recently walked the ramp at a fashion show in London, uses a wheelchair. For the walk she used a stroller for support and watching her grace, elegance and charisma on the ramp was quite a sight to behold.

Katie, from Cheshire, United Kingdom, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth. This is a development disorder that affects movement and co-ordination. Katie had to undergo a nine-hour-long surgery a few years back thanks to which she can now straighten her legs and feet. This enabled Katie to realize a long cherished dream – to walk the ramp for clothing brand, Panda.

Priya Bhargava, winner of the title, Miss Wheelchair India 2015, says Indian fashion brands should watch and learn from Katie.

This is great and amazing! Fashion is for everyone. Why can’t our models be of any mould? It can be, of course. It motivates people a lot. Catwalk by any mould of models opens opportunities to many people. It should be an open platform. I would love to see aged models too, one day. – Priya Bhargava, Miss Wheelchair India 2015

Katie’s mother Clare is her biggest supporter. Clare is very glad that her daughter is doing what she loves to do at such a young age. Katie has already been signed up by modelling agency, Zebdee Management for more assignments. She has also done photo shoots for Matalan and River Island. This young girl is definitely dreaming big and also working towards making her dreams a reality.

Vinayana Khurana is among those inspired by her story.

“This is a story of determination. It is important to come out of your shell and discover yourself like how Katie did”, says Khurana. Social media users too congratulated Katie’s grit and determination at such a young age.

“Great to see such a difference for 11yr old Katie Renshaw. A real model for everyone with cerebral palsy”, tweeted Paul Simpson.

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