I Can Be Disabled And A Model

MODELLING with Cerebral Palsy is all part of one girl’s mission to “change the way the world views disability.” Samantha Norgart was diagnosed with Hypotonic Cerebral Palsy at the age of one, which causes stiff muscles and muscle spasms, and prevented her from speaking properly until the age of 21. But even with this debilitating condition, the determined Oregon City-native has begun a modelling career, using the photos on social media to spread a message of positivity and inclusivity. The 22-year-old, known online as ‘@wheelchairblondie’, told Barcroft Studios: “Most people assume because I’m in a wheelchair my mind doesn’t work. But it does. At the end of the day, you just have to live and have no fear and no regrets.” Sister, Sophie said: “I think her modeling is perfect for her. She started working with organisations and brands, and at first we thought maybe it was a bit of fun. But now it’s getting more serious to where she’s getting agencies contacting her and wanting to her even start traveling, so it’s pretty cool.” At the age of 21, doctors applied a Scopolamine patch to Samantha’s skin to help her with feelings of nausea, and soon after Samantha miraculously began talking for the first time. “Because of this patch, now I can talk. It was great, it was so great to finally have my independence,” said Samantha. She has been continuously modelling with photographers around Oregon and hopes to spread her positive message of inclusivity with everything she does.