[Image: Profile of Katie running on the beach, while wearing her prosthetic arm. She is staying active and feeling peaceful at the beach, her happy place]
What is your favorite memory/ moment that brought you lots of joy?
One of my favorite memories is competing in the the 2013 Track and Field World Championships in Lyon, France for the US Paralympics.
What gets your fired up about the disability movement? I get fired up and inspired by seeing those of us all coming together and empowering one another in breaking down barriers. When we connect, we gain more visibility, and the social stigma dissipates.
What is your advocacy platform? Paralympic Movement, modeling
What do you want those who do not identify with disability to know? I would like those who do not identify with disability to know that is it okay to be curious and ask questions without fear of being offensive (including allowing children ask questions instead of telling them that it's rude). Disability is quite common, so let's open up the conversation to gain an understanding and acceptance!
What areas are you still growing/hope to grow? Personally? Professionally? I am constantly evolving and seeking growth in all areas of my life. Being present and enjoying the moment is my current focus.
Who was the person/role model who inspired you to look into disability advocacy? Why/how did they inspire you? There was no one person who inspired me to look into disability advocacy. The positive messages of encouragement I receive from friends, and even strangers, motivate me to dedicate my time to advocate and serve others.
When people look at you/up to you, what do you hope they see? I hope people see a woman who is comfortable in her own skin which, in turn, makes them feel comfortable in their own skin and confident in their own abilities. By demonstrating strength in vulnerability, I hope people see a woman who is a source for creating change in any misconceptions surrounding disability, or in general.
What are your next steps? I am currently training to compete in the Paralympics in 2021 in Tokyo Japan and working with a model agency who represents people with disabilities.
How do we follow you?! Instagram: @katwalk7
Facebook: katwalk101
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