Jessica Kirkwood is a beautiful aspiring model who is apart of the special needs community. Jessica, who is 32 years of age and currently residing in Peoria, IL, is living with Cerebral Palsy has always had a passion for the runway! Jessica hopes to break barriers by becoming the 1st black high fashion model living with Cerebral Palsy. Jessica desires to inspire other little girls living with Cerebral Palsy by showing them that life can still be fun beyond the wheelchair.
Fancy: How would you describe your SwagHer? What makes Jessica, Jessica?
Jessica: LOL, I consider myself classy with a little bougie, rocking a bald head, skinny jeans, and 5in heels on most days. I’m a “DIVA.” I like to refer to myself as a Barbie on wheels. Wow, what makes Jessica? My beautiful personality, heart, and soul. My love for life and determination. As I go through life, I understand, anything that I want I can have. I will accomplish everything I set my mind to.
Fancy: What is it like living with cerebral palsy?
Jessica: Surprisingly, living with cerebral palsy isn’t as difficult as some people may think. I’m not going to say it’s easy; it’s a struggle at times, but it’s all about simple adaptations. I’m very blessed with my condition. I have no pain at all, and my mind and body function properly. I would probably say my only issue really is everything can be a little more time consuming, which can be a bit tiresome, but that’s it. I can do anything an “able-bodied” person can do plus more just not walk correctly.
Fancy: How does your disability affect your modeling career, and how do you work around that?
Jessica: Â Fortunately for me, I haven’t run into too many issues yet. I never once felt discriminated against because of my disability. Everyone from photographers, hairstylists, make up artists, all have been understanding of my condition. Modeling can be challenging at times, but that’s what to be expected. The hardest part for me is probably getting all poses and faces to come together, but that’s because I’m somewhat of a perfectionist when it comes to my modeling.
Fancy: What made you decide to participate in Our Children’s Story Purple & Green Gala this year, or why do you think the gala is important?Â
Jessica: I consider myself to be an advocate for people with special needs. I love this quality about myself. I’ve also been told by so many people that I’m an inspiration and that I’ve given them strength and brought positivity to their life. If there’s ever an opportunity to share my story and help and touch others, I want to do so.
Fancy: Is there a specific subject you will be speaking on?Â
Jessica: Explaining what my type of Cerebral Palsy is and my modeling career, how it started, and where I would like to take it.
Fancy: As for the gala, what are you looking forward to?Â
Jessica: I’m excited about seeing/ meeting everyone and hearing their stories.Â
Fancy: If there was one thing you would like our readers to know about the special needs community or being a part of it, what would that be?Â
Jessica: We are all unique and beautiful none of us are the same. Take the time to get to know someone. You’ll be surprised by what you learn. We have zero limitations, and we are way more than what meets the eyes.
Our Children’s Story, Inc.’s mission is to uplift, inspire, empower, and educate families who care for children with (dis)Abilities. Breathing life back into the community and giving hope where hope has been lost. The Purple and Green Gala is an annual event that spotlights people from all walks of life (disabilities, business, etc.) that help inspire and give back to the community. Jessica Kirkwood and other amazing women that live with disabilities will be there to spread awareness. Register for the Purple and Green Gala Here!
Connect with Jessica:Â
Facebook: Jessica Kirkwood 16 Â
Disability Awareness Page♿ï¸: Disability Awareness Living with Cerebral PalsyÂ
Instagram:Â @foreverjessica_xoxo
Snapchat: BarbieonwheelsÂ
Learn more about Jessica here: Jessica Kirkwood
