Many of you who follow me on Facebook have already seen many of Cortney's Runway LOUD pictures.
But you may not know the story behind the scenes.
Let me share a bit.....
For the longest time Cortney's life was a struggle.
People stared, gawked, and shared their ignorance on more than one occasion.
This mama fought for healthcare, disagreed with doctors, teachers, and IEP's.
I was told over and over how severe my daughter was.
How "low" she was.
Seeing the numbers year after year was devastating.
And yet, I continued to fight, adapt, and expose Cort to as many things as possible.
Who else would take their kid hiking in the mountains of Tenessee in a wheelchair? ;)
My family and friends thought I was nuts for pursuing such a crazy, crazy dream.
There were many naysayers.
They often reminded me that Cort couldn't "pose" like a typical teen.
They reminded me that she was in a wheelchair.
And yet, she was given the opportunity to "walk" the runway with models. "Real" models, who were kind to Cortney and showered her with love and attention. Everyone involved in the show was so incredibly kind to her.
I can't begin to describe the feeling her dad and I had when Cort went out on stage.
The audience jumped to their feet, clapping, cheering, videoing, and taking pictures.
Of Cortney.
Our daughter.
The one that people wrote off 19 years ago.
It took everything in my power not to cry from sheer happiness at this magical moment.
So instead I smiled.
And smiled.
And clapped for this angel that was given to us.
She has touched people's lives.
I can't help but think that maybe she has helped to change a few perspectives on having a disability, no matter how "severe."
I am glad I didn't listen to other people.
I am glad I have been able to create opportunities for her.
I hope this doesn't end her journey, but that it is only the beginning.
Cortney's story was shared in the Chicago Southtown if you would like to view the article.
Thank you for letting me share and bombard you with pictures of my girl!
Have a great day friends!
23 comments:
How beautiful. I was crying reading the story.
Yay for Cortney!
You are the best momma ever!
Gorgeous pictures of your gorgeous girl. You are an amazing Mom. Both you and Cortney inspire each one of us to be the best we can be. Thank you both.
Absolutely wonderful and inspiring. Cortney is a beautiful young woman. I hope her modeling career blossoms!
I love that smile on your face. I can't imagine how proud you are of Cortney. She is really a beautiful girl with an amazing smile.....like her Mama. You have done an amazing job. Way to go. Loved the article, too.
You both look so totally happy. I cant imagine anything more beautiful. Keep it up, both of you.
I think YOU are amazing! And so is Cortney.
Cortney's story is so inspirational! Her joyful smile on the runway reflects more than words can ever express. As a mother of a child with a disability I can relate to your struggle to ensure Cortney received the appropriate resources and care in a system that is poorly equipped and staffed to provide for them. Your love for your daughter gave you the strength and perseverance necessary to keep up the fight no matter how frustrating it became. I am so happy for your entire family!! I can't wait to see what Cortney will do next!!
Hugs,
Nancy
Oh please keep bombarding us with all your photos. I love to quietly sit and read about this journey. It is amazing and wonderful. Bless you.
Amazing Cortney and amazing YOU!! What strength and courage you had to fight for your daughter!! Love the entire story!!! Congratulations, who knows how far she will go!!!
Your daughter is gorgeous and I thank you for sharing your story with us. Not only do you have an amazing daughter but you are one amazing mom!!!
Sandy xx
Bravo to you and your family, AND to Courtney. She and you look so, so happy in every photo you've posted.
You are phenomenal! Your love and dedication for your daughter is so inspiring.
Tears of joy for Cortney and the entire Kovak family. All children deserve a safe place and happiness in the world. By being such a strong, devoted and loving family you are showing the world that wishes and dreams can come true and every person has tremendous potential to be what they desire. Thank you for sharing your journey.
Cortney shines like the sun and so do you, Michelle!!!
~Kris~
Michele - I had tears in my eyes as I read this post. You are an amazing woman and mom! God gave Cortney to you because he knew that you were amazing and would fight for Cortney! Your husband and son also seem to be amazing. I'm positive that this is only the beginning for Cortney - she is beautiful and the camera loves her.
I'm honored to call you my friend {{{hugs}}}
<3
I am a long time reader and a rare commenter, but I couldn't keep quiet on this post... BRAVO to you and your family for not listening to the naysayers. You and your husband are truly the only ones who know what's best for your children. I applaud y'all for living for your dreams and letting them come true. I also love that you share your family with your readers. You have a gorgeous family (furry family included)! Your post brought tears and a smile to my face and brightened my day considerable. Thank you.
You and Cort are both such beautiful people taking your journey together. I feel privileged to know you Michele. May God bless you and your family with many more smiles.
Bravo to you, Mom, for never taking no as an answer. You did a great job advocating for your daughter. And she is beautiful --and deserves to walk the runway. Go Cortney!
Way to go Mom ! I'm so happy for Courtney and for you ( I've missed reading your post ... some changes in schedule keeping me busy) ! Courtney looks adorable !
Courteny looks so beautiful! I am so glad she got a chance to "walk" the runway! Keep on doing what you're doing Michele!!
Sue S.
Just AWESOME!!! Congrats on having the opportunity to participate in that amazing experience. Hope Cortney had a fabulous time!!
Beautiful pictures, and a beautiful, inspiring girl. Your family makes this world a more wonderful place.
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