Melissa Blake was born with Freeman-Sheldon Syndrome, a rare genetic bone and muscular disorder, and always dreamed of becoming a model. Despite her passion, she was often told that her disability would prevent her from achieving that goal. Years later, Blake defied the odds and walked the runway at New York Fashion Week.
As a journalist, Blake covers topics related to disabilities, relationships, lifestyle, and pop culture. Her journey has been marked by numerous surgeries—26 in total—on her knees, hands, hips, and spine. Growing up, she loved reading fashion magazines but noticed that people like her were rarely represented. When she was a teenager, someone told her she would never be a model because of her disability, a comment that left a lasting impact.
However, Blake refused to let those words define her. Twenty years later, at the age of 42, she made her modeling debut during New York Fashion Week, showcasing Zappos’ adaptive clothing line. This moment, which took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, was particularly significant as it highlighted the need for greater inclusivity in fashion. Blake was proud to be part of this change, emphasizing the importance of redefining beauty standards.
Blake’s runway walk was filmed at home, along with 25 other models, each sharing their personal stories about living with disabilities. This event was part of a broader movement to create more inclusive spaces in the fashion industry, inspired by non-profit organizations like Runway of Dreams, founded by Mindy Scheier. Scheier’s organization aims to promote functional and fashionable clothing for disabled people, motivated by her own experiences with her son, who has muscular dystrophy.
🎉 HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY VIRAL TWEET 🎉
Can’t believe my viral tweet turned two years old today! The most unexpected moment and I’d like to thank the trolls…
Because of you, I blossomed instead of withered, took up space instead of hid. I’m still standing…and rolling! 📸❤️✨ pic.twitter.com/V15uWIWMOT
— Melissa Blake (@melissablake) September 8, 2021
In addition to her modeling work, Blake uses her blog, “So About What I Said…,” to discuss her experiences as a person with disabilities, including finding love and standing up to online bullies. In 2019, she shared photos of herself on Twitter after trolls said she was “too ugly” to post pictures. Her tweet went viral, and she later reflected on the experience, celebrating her resilience and determination.
Blake remains committed to creating inclusive spaces through her journalism, blog, and advocacy, proving that beauty comes in all forms. Her story is a powerful reminder that dreams can be achieved regardless of the obstacles one might face.
