Many of you who follow me on Facebook have already seen many of Cortney's Runway LOUD pictures.
But you may not know the story behind the scenes.
Let me share a bit.....
For the longest time Cortney's life was a struggle.
People stared, gawked, and shared their ignorance on more than one occasion.
This mama fought for healthcare, disagreed with doctors, teachers, and IEP's.
I was told over and over how severe my daughter was.
How "low" she was.
Seeing the numbers year after year was devastating.
And yet, I continued to fight, adapt, and expose Cort to as many things as possible.
Who else would take their kid hiking in the mountains of Tenessee in a wheelchair? ;)
My family and friends thought I was nuts for pursuing such a crazy, crazy dream.
There were many naysayers.
They often reminded me that Cort couldn't "pose" like a typical teen.
They reminded me that she was in a wheelchair.
And yet, she was given the opportunity to "walk" the runway with models. "Real" models, who were kind to Cortney and showered her with love and attention. Everyone involved in the show was so incredibly kind to her.
I can't begin to describe the feeling her dad and I had when Cort went out on stage.
The audience jumped to their feet, clapping, cheering, videoing, and taking pictures.
Of Cortney.
Our daughter.
The one that people wrote off 19 years ago.
It took everything in my power not to cry from sheer happiness at this magical moment.
So instead I smiled.
And smiled.
And clapped for this angel that was given to us.
She has touched people's lives.
I can't help but think that maybe she has helped to change a few perspectives on having a disability, no matter how "severe."
I am glad I didn't listen to other people.
I am glad I have been able to create opportunities for her.
I hope this doesn't end her journey, but that it is only the beginning.
Cortney's story was shared in the Chicago Southtown if you would like to view the article.
Thank you for letting me share and bombard you with pictures of my girl!
Have a great day friends!
