Natalia Chi
Ethan Sappington just walked home from the iconic New York Fashion Week catwalk. His story is probably more inspiring than anyone else on the runway.
Amputee Sappington participated in Limb Kind Disability’s ‘Show Your Shine’. fashion show last month.
It was Ethan’s first show, but thanks to his determination and prosthetic leg, he did it all by himself.
“Seeing him come out of his shell and do something like walk a runway in New York to a crowd of people was a huge opportunity for us! Because it’s hard for him…but… He did it,” said his mother Teresa.
The 4th graders are cheered on by everyone at Lily Lake Elementary School and are called local heroes.
“He taught us all how to be patient. He also taught us all about acceptance. He’s a funny guy and we actually call him the mayor of Lily Lake.” Principal Rebecca Jarth said.
Theresa says she was blown away not only by the support her son received, but by how wonderful the whole experience was.
“He wasn’t in a wheelchair. He used a prosthetic leg for his lower leg. This was huge for us,” she said. “It was an incredible experience.”
Ethan’s participation was part of a fundraiser for the Limb Kind Foundation, a non-profit organization that raises funds to provide prostheses to people living in countries around the world.
“It’s been an incredible experience doing this in New York and being part of this community, and watching my son walk the runway alongside 27 other superheroes.
