When Melissa Blake was a teenager, someone told her she could never be a model because she’s disabled. Those words stuck with her — until she proved them completely wrong.

Born with Freeman-Sheldon syndrome, a rare genetic disorder affecting her muscles and bones, Melissa has had more than 26 surgeries. But thanks to supportive parents and a sharp sense of humor, she grew up believing she could do anything — and she was right.

Melissa became a successful freelance writer, with bylines in The New York Times, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, and more. She also runs a personal blog and is a passionate disability activist.

Despite online trolls mocking her looks and telling her to stop posting selfies, Melissa didn’t back down. Instead, she posted more selfies — and they went viral. In 2020, her boldness caught the attention of Runway of Dreams founder Mindy Scheier, who invited her to walk (virtually) in New York Fashion Week. She modeled alongside 25 other disabled individuals in a campaign featuring inclusive brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Zappos Adaptive.

If she had 10 seconds to speak to the world, Melissa’s message is clear:
“Please listen to disabled people. Our voices and our stories matter — stop making us an afterthought.”

And if she could speak to her younger self?
“One day, you’ll love yourself and your disabled body. You’re going to be okay.”

Melissa’s story is more than inspiring — it’s a reminder that the world needs more visibility, inclusion, and unapologetic confidence.