A nine-year-old girl who had both legs amputated when she was a baby will be walking the runway during New York Fashion Week.
Daisy-May Demetre, from Birmingham, was born with fibular hemimelia, a birth defect where part or all of the fibular bone is missing, which required her to undergo amputations of her legs when she was just 18-months-old.
However, Demetre hasn't let it stop her from pursuing her dreams of becoming a model.
After walking in a show for Lulu et Gigi Couture during London Kids’ Fashion Week, Demetre was chosen to represent the brand during this September’s NYFW. She was also named as a brand ambassador for the clothing line.
According to Demetre’s father, Alex, his daughter’s pursuit of her dreams is inspiring.
“She inspired me by showing me who she was,” he told CNN. “She takes on life with a smile on her face and she does remarkable things.
“Whether it’s dancing, singing, she is a very special little girl.”
While this will be the first time Demetre has appeared at NYFW, she is used to the spotlight, as she previously modelled for Nike, River Island, and Boden.
According to the designer behind the French-inspired children’s clothing, Eni Hegedus-Buiron, Demetre will be a perfect fit for the 8 September show.
“I was asked if I was okay with having an amputee walk in my show,” Hegedus-Buiron told the BBC. “To be honest I was surprised by the question. For me, a child is a child and thus is beautiful and perfect.
“So of course I said yes.”
On Lulu et Gigi Couture’s website, it reiterates the brand’s commitment to inclusion and diversity.
“We believe that inner beauty comes first; from within, and our garments are made to enhance each child’s uniqueness,” the website reads. “Inclusion and diversity are fostered, celebrated and encouraged.”
Since it was announced that Demetre would be involved in the upcoming fashion show, the brand has been praised for its inclusion.
"This is amazing," one person wrote on Instagram, while another said: "This is so incredible. Congratulations Daisy-May."
Last year’s NYFW was the most inclusive season seen yet in terms of race, size and age, according to The Fashion Spot’s official diversity report.
