High Heels & Killer Wheels

A Regina in Rotis

ajbray — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 04:42:49 EST

Fellow Wheeled Queens and Kings,

This is an official proclamation to declare our liberation from the ambulatory constraints, and point out all the ways we're awesome in our own ways...

(Of course, this is nothing against our Standing Brethren, but, as every minority group has before us, we must, at some point, establish some identity of our own. No hard feelings, Ambis...)

I just did something that no right-minded Ambi (Ambulatory Person) can, or should, do... I tattooed the bottom of my foot.

Why? you ask...because, well, because I can.

How many Ambis can say they'll be off their foot for long enough to keep out infection, dirt, and cat hair? How many women can proudly state that they can go round their daily activities with a wee, bleeding, gaping, inked-in heart on the sole of her foot without fear of covering it with calluses, destruction by improper aftercare, or wear and tear from cramped shoes?

We few, we proud, we wheeled...that's who!

My baby-soft feet are often confounding for those who have never encountered a Regina (or Rex) in Rotis, as our walking counterparts struggle with bunions, calluses, and fallen arches. We get to roll through life with beautiful, soft feet, and get marked where and when we want. We don't fret over the exact sizing of a shoe, nor worry how a five-inch stiletto will feel after an 8 hour work day.

Instead, we cover up for cold days to keep our inert knees and shins safe from the cold and, if you're a para, potential frostbite. Or if you're like me and have a myriad of issues, including internal metal hardware and Reynauds...well, frostbite. We have little blankies that we quickly shed and try to hide as soon as we cross the Holt's or Bloomie's thresholds, and stock up on those disposable "Hot Hands" packets every time they go on sale. We try to hide our frailness and, if you're anything like me, tuck the ugly-but-soooo-warm Tractor Supply suede gloves behind you before anyone can see how the yucky brown utilitarianism clashes with her mink jacket.

But, once inside, I have the distinction of gliding silently through the halls, stopping only when a pretty item catches my eye, and dodging through low, tiny holes in crowds.

This past New Year's Eve, I was in Niagara Falls, Ontario (of course), watching O.L.P. and Simple Plan to ring in the New Year, and while with my hubby and Eliza, I had to school them a bit.

"As you always state, my darling, one cannot go faster than the person in front of them," my husband, Cheyn said calmly, as I prepared to pass a slow-moving family.

"Au contraire, mon amour," I countered, as we attempted to negotiate through the ridiculous crowd. "That rule only applies to cars on the street and mere mortals. I'm a Regina in rotis. I can 'bob and weave.'"

"Bob and Weave." I have lived by those words in crowds for as long as I remember being on wheels.

So, we bobbed and we wove, and by the end, the three of us got a quite acceptable vantage point (with the aid of a few constables), and all kissed in the New Year happily. And, thanks to the storage room in my chair, we were able to toast it in with respectable bubbly, too, though officially it was "non alcoholic." (If the cops were interested in busting anyone at all, they would've gone after the, oh, thousand or few peeps sparking up doobs -- that *I* could see/smell -- for the Ball Drop. I'm just saying...)

Since then, in less than a fortnight, so many things have happened to reinforce my role as a Disability Rights Advocate and public person that I can't even consider hiding behind my writing anymore, as I once did when I first started out as a wee author...I wasn't even legal to drink in the US when I toasted my first publication in America.

I'm in the current People Magazine, I was just on Entertainment Tonight Canada, and my husband is being exhibited in Niagara Falls as a prominent "Local African-American Artist." I was recently named to the head editorial staff of the upcoming DisabilityNews.Net, I'm the Chairwoman of the Public Policy and Outreach Committee for ILNC, and the Vice Chair of the Niagara Falls Human Rights Commission. I have an amazing husband who has joined our movement, the world's greatest Personal Assistant (recently hired after years of her consistent help), and the most supportive parents in the history of queer, disabled, zany history. And I couldn't be prouder of my team...they're combining to allow me to not only write, but go into business for myself...

oh, and get a tattoo on the bottom of my foot.

To my dear Bothers and Sister on Wheels...smile. How fortunate are we? We can make jokes, always have our own seating, and never need strange, expensive insoles in our shoes. We can either be footloose and fancy/shoe free, or strap into the sexiest shoes ever without fear of wearing them out or spraining an ankle using the loo. We can't fall on wet floors, and when we dance, not only is it a thing of graceful, rolling beauty, but a thing of public "inspiration," and wonder.

So, to my beautiful, wondrous Brothers and Sisters in Wheelage...own it.

You're in it for life, so you might as well LIVE.

The Price of Being "liberbal": Amusing Hate Mail!

ajbray — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 18:47:47 EDT

I like FaceBook. I really, really do, but sometimes, well... sometimes I get some of the craziest messages. Each week, my inbox gets stuffed with everything from nice, normal, "Hi, how ya doing, A.J.?!" notes (which I love, BTW), to marriage proposals (interesting and flattering, but impossible), to sexual propositions (eeew), to spam, and finally, to crazy hate mail. For instance, I just read THE most ridiculously offensive hate mail from someone who *requested* to be on my "Friends List." Please, allow me to re-post this bigoted, small-minded diatribe, and let us all get a good laugh from the illiterate drivel! LOL

From Justin Engel**** in B.C.
30 May

"A.J.
Hey A.J. I understand you are very liberbal but why must you consume foods from foriegn countries too prove your political correctness. I understand you are in a wheel chair but you also need to understand some of us american kids with disabilities have adopted a more Eurpean method of living despite the fact that we were products of Ronald Reagan and his electronic money like credit cards, and electronic cash. Reagan understood people like myself."

Then, several weeks later, after I ignored him, he sent this into the void:

19 June
"Married to a black guy hey. I'm sorry did your parents discriminate against black folk. I am glad I wasn't raised that way and maintain my cultural identity as a christian who dates other chritians. Thats the new fetish with you women "You are VERY LIBERAL, and date a black guy that is straight out of GREEN MILE". On a proving ground that you are liberal and free thinking. Let me know if he knocks you up and leaves you with the kids."

Since I have no desire to write directly to this loser right now, I thought it would be better to respond to the world: after all, I have nothing to hide.

Let's hit this point for point:

1) "why must you consume foods from foriegn countries too prove your political correctness" Ummm...wha-? I'm not sure how eating yummy things and trying various foods to expand my grazing repertoire proves anything other than I like to eat. How does stuffing my face with awesomeness make me "liberbal"??? LOL

2) "I understand you are in a wheel chair but you also need to understand some of us american kids with disabilities have adopted a more Eurpean method of living despite the fact that we were products of Ronald Reagan..." *sigh* All right... PLEASE can SOMEONE tell me how ANY of this sounds "Eurpean"??? The last time I checked -- and maybe I'm wrong here -- Europe is comprised of many countries of varying and diverse cuisines and foodstuffs...things like ummmm.... snails, offal, and raw meat. LOL I'm just sayin'. ;)

3) "...despite the fact that we were products of Ronald Reagan and his electronic money like credit cards, and electronic cash. Reagan understood people like myself" Really? Did President Reagan really understand completely incomprehensible morons?? It's such a shame that there aren't more people like President Reagan to translate for people like me. What a tragedy. (BTW: what does "electronic cash" have ANYthing to do with food, "liberbal"ism, or disability?!?!? LMAO)

4) "I'm sorry did your parents discriminate against black folk." Is this a question, statement, apology, interrogative, or what??? I almost want to write to this dude and ask, but yeah, I think that wouldn't go too well. LOL Anyway, the answer (I think) is a resounding NO, and that's why I decide how feel about people based on things like, ummmmm, personality, intelligence, skills, interests, humour, and all that silly stuff, rather than the really important things like race, race, race, and RACE! LMAO And, P.S. I don't think it's OK to refer to persons of African descent as, "black folk," any longer. As an additional FYI, they are also now allowed to use the same water fountain as you, Justin. Darn that Civil Rights Movement! ;) (/EXTREME sarcasm)

5) "I am glad I wasn't raised that way and maintain my cultural identity as a christian who dates other chritians." First thing: "Cultural Identity" = White Supremacist = Neo-Nazi = Nut Second thing: I'm pretty sure there are African American Christians, or "chritians," as you put it. Third thing: Neither of us are Christian, so that's moot. Fourth thing: I'm guessing you're one of those "people" (read: nuts) who believes that interracial marriage is against the Bible. Thank you. Seriously, from all of us who are working for full marriage equality for same-sex couples, THANK YOU! Because, for years same-sex marriage opponents have been stating that the gay marriage debate is TOTALLY different from the interracial marriage debate because, according to them (now), in the Bible, nothing is said about mixed-race marriage, whereas sexual diversity is expressly forbidden. Well, you sir, have just given our side even more credence. Thanks! (NB: Contrary to the current rewriting of history, religion was used in the case against interracial marriage. Check out the book, Almighty God Created the Races by Fay Botham.)

6) "Thats the new fetish with you women" Love? Umm, yeah, I guess we women have gotten kinda turned on by that whole wacky, "love who makes your heart happy," thing, and have totally fetishized it. That, and kissing other girls. ;)

7) "'You are VERY LIBERAL, and date a black guy that is straight out of GREEN MILE".' First thing: How is this a direct quote? Does Justin E., originally of Washington State, know what quotation marks are? Or how and why they're used? I'm sorry to say it, but South Delta Secondary School needs to audit their English department. Immediately. Anyway... Second thing: I wasn't aware I was dating any guys; perhaps I should tell my husband of 11 years that I'm dating some guy. He'll probably be pretty hurt. Third thing: "GREEN MILE"??? Really? Wow, I know he's cute and all, but do you REALLY think my hubby looks like Tom Hanks, Justin E.??? It's funny, but I never noticed the resemblance before now...

8) "On a proving ground that you are liberal and free thinking. Let me know if he knocks you up and leaves you with the kids." Actually, I don't need to *prove* I'm liberal or free thinking, simply because I don't write racist, Neo-Nazi drivel like this. And, for the record, we have no children. We're proudly a Child-Free household, and will always stay that way. It is medically impossible for us to conceive, and I don't think one can "accidentally" adopt a child after a crazy night of drinking too much Champagne, so I don't foresee that ever changing. We do, however, have a cat that we rescued, but I think if we ever got divorced, I'd demand full custody of the cat. And alimony, Cat Care (versus Child Care), the house, and a lifetime supply of foreign foods to prove my political correctness.

Oh, and some of that "electronic cash." ;)

Sincerely,

A.J.

"liberbal" Extraordinaire

Purse Safety: A Tip for Wheelie Chicks

ajbray — Thu, 12 May 2011 21:11:32 EDT

Good evening, fellow be-wheeled fashionistas! I have a question for all of you: has anyone else wondered how to integrate all the cute little handbags popping up in stores with our somewhat, shall we say...unusual situation? Well, I have an even more unusual solution to keep those purses safely in our laps, and maybe even help to carry shopping bags home from the mall!

But, I'll warn you, ladies...it's not for the faint of heart...

Once upon a time, I was given a set of "love cuffs" by a friend as a gag gift. Naturally, as open-minded as I am, I was highly amused and not even a little bit offended, but I'm not exactly what some might call a, 'submissive,' kind of girl. So, a perfectly nice pair of purple neoprene wrist restraints sat, gathering dust, until one day I finally figured out a more practical use for them.

I had been out earlier that night, dancing and having a few cocktails with some girlfriends, when I hit a bump and my *adorable* sequined clutch slid off my lap and popped open on the ground. Lipstick, a compact, my ID, and cash all went flying. Rather than looking savvy and independent with my chic little purse, I suddenly found myself scrabbling to find all my night-out necessities, with random helpful strangers bending to come to my rescue. So not sexy.

As I got ready for bed that night, I found myself ruminating over my handbag faux pas, and wondering what, if anything, could be done to keep it from happening ever, ever again. I examined the purse; there was a short chain handle that could be detached, so I began experimenting with places where I could hook it on my chair. After a few unsuccessful, albeit innovative, attempts, I realized the chain was simply too short. I considered the notion of buying a longer chain at the local hardware store and attaching it to the bar across the back, but the metal chain would eventually chip the paint and scuff it. Not acceptable. Luckily, my eyes slid over to my dresser and to where the love cuffs still sat in their box. Perfect!

***

Step 1. Purchase (or repurpose *winkwink*) a pair of neoprene 'love cuffs' with adjustable Velcro fasteners. If you're too timid to visit your local 'Adult Toy Store,' visit some places online, such as BetterSex.com, for more clandestine delivery.

Step 2. Wrap one end of a cuff around the back bar of your favourite chair and adjust according to the length you want. (This is when these particular cuffs come in handy -- they're secure at almost any length thanks to the strong hook-and-loop closures.) If you have a mini-backpack on your chair, as I do, be sure to wrap the cuff around the strap to keep it safe, too.

Step 3. If you find you need a little extra length, or you know you're going to want to carry other bags at the same time, add in a few additional carabiners. (Available everywhere from cutesy accessories stores at the mall and sporting goods shops, to true camping and outdoors superstores.) I got one to match the snazzy purple, but I've even seen them glittery, crusted with rhinestones, or emblazoned with your own name. When you want to carry other bags, such as grocery sacks, just clip them into the carabiner

Step 4. Link the other cuff around your purse strap.

Step 5. Place your purse in your lap, make any final adjustments, and enjoy feeling safer and more secure while still rocking your sassy style!

Rant: Can't Beat the REAL Thing

ajbray — Sun, 08 May 2011 08:13:46 EDT

Okay, ladies, it's time for a little chat.

I cannot remain silent any longer. There's an epidemic spreading amongst the female populous and it needs to be stopped. Other diseases have ribbons, campaigns, and snappy slogans. Celebrities speak out in YouTube promo spots about esoteric, unpleasant conditions, and doctors hold international conferences to foster collaborative dialogue between top industry specialists. So, then, why is that this foul, insidious plague is allowed to run rampant through my gender without even so much as a simple fundraiser or charity ball?

What is this loathsome scourge affecting so many of my fellow females, you ask? Well, my trusty reader, it is none other than formo imitationosis. And it seems to be spreading rapidly.

I first noticed the infection on eBay many moon ago. I decided to treat myself to a little trinket as a personal reward, so I logged on to the worldwide auction site in search of a designer bag. Instead of a pretty parade of gently-used purses being pawned off, I was faced with a plethora of fakes, frauds, and phonies. Some were masquerading as the real deal, while others were open about the fact that the product was a, "beautiful designer reproduction." As a result, my PayPal account didn't get depleted that day, and I waited till I got to the mall at the weekend, and to a reputable boutique, before I bought myself a little bag.

That was years and years ago, and now, the epidemic has spread well beyond the Internet and the backs of vans in urban alleyways. When I go to the mall, I get accosted by kiosk vendors openly hawking "Gucce," and "Chanell," bags for $19.99 each, or 2 for $30. Really??? And in Niagara Falls, a town I frequent on both sides of the border, there's a huge Welcome Centre on the U.S. side thats only uses, from what I can discern, are to house a repulsive "International Food Court," and a mall which only sells Falls souvenirs and knock-offs. As a result, there seems to be an inordinate number of girls in the area who really believe they're fooling people with their pleather totebags with huge, tacky, interlocking C's.

(As an aside: I find it extra amusing when I see women sporting these atrocities with outfits that make no sense. Like, for instance, tatty Christmas pyjama bottoms (in May), a bleach-stained Tweety Bird t-shirt, and a Scrunchee. In public. Are we to believe that Ms. Thing spent so long saving up thousands upon thousands of dollars to splash out on her Chanel tote, that she is only left with pyjamas and holey Keds? Perhaps she'd been better off buying a cute tote from Target, H&M, or Joe Fresh, and been able to afford a descent hair accessory, actual pants, and food for her toddler. Win-win!)

One other thing that really gets me is fake Coach. I mean, really...c'mon?! And, the irony is, that I see more knock-off Coach bags (be they with a smattering of G's instead of C's, or just out-and-out fakes) in towns where there is a handy-dandy Coach outlet store. I'm serious. Let's go back to Niagara Falls, but this time to the Canadian side... I don't think I've ever ventured down Clifton Hill without counting at least a dozen along the way. And there's no excuse; there's a Coach USA outlet, and several of their outlets on the Canadian side. So what's with all the fakes??

My other current pet peeve is the glut of key pendants on the market meant to emulate Tiffany & Co.'s key collection. I find this especially offensive because I own a couple of them; the first one was a very special gift from my husband. Several years ago, he found my beloved collection of antique keys, most of which were gifts from my great-grandmother, and when he saw the lovely pieces Tiffany crafted, he knew one would be the perfect present. So, not only did I get the joy of untying the pristine white bow and opening the "little blue box," but I also received a gift that spoke to me... and it said, "Hey... he gets you. And, yes, it's real." That's pretty darned hard to counterfeit, if you ask me.

In my opinion, there really is no reason in the world to wear forgeries. So many stores and designers are creating great looks at affordable prices, that I shouldn't see a single phony anywhere. And, yes, while ideally one should save her pennies and invest wisely in "the real deal," that isn't always possible on every budget. Personally, I'd rather have one beautiful, timeless classic in my closet, like a perfectly tailored pencil skirt, or The Iconic Little Black Wrap Dress, than dozens of those heinous t-shirts with the Chanel logo sloppily screen-printed across the chest. Strike that: I'd rather go naked. But I'd still rather not pay full price if I don't have to, so I'm a devoted Outlet Hound, and have lucked into some of the deals of the century that way.

Beyond the mall and outlets, there's always the Wondrous World of Thrift Store Shopping. (Honestly, I have culled many of my favourite wardrobe staples from thrift stores. Some of which are vintage designer pieces, some are elegant classics, and others, thanks to the eternal merry-go-round of fashion, are fun, trendy seasonals.) If your patience fails you at the thought of sifting and sorting through racks of muu-muus, polyester lounge suits, and Members Only jackets, then hit up some of the great budget-friendly retailers out there (Target, H&M, Joe Fresh, Top Shop, Kohl's), either in person or online.

And, finally, no one's being fooled -- the other girls who buy the knock-offs will recognize yours as a fellow fake, and the true fashionistas won't be tricked for a second. More importantly, you will know it isn't real, and that's the real rub. Sure, everyone will copy what's hot to some degree -- there will be little Versace-esque dresses at stores, big box retailers will take cues from runway trends, and yes, someone, somewhere is actively quilting a no-name leather clutch even as I type this, but please, ladies, vaccinate yourselves against this unfashionable malady...

Don't take it that extra step and plunk down your hard-earned money on a genuine fraud. Practice safe shopping, and always, always guard yourself against falling ill to formo imitationosis.

Because, while imitation may be *considered* the sincerest form of flattery, there's sincerely nothing flattering about wearing imitations.

Mad for Hattery

ajbray — Wed, 26 May 2010 05:01:03 EDT

About a year ago, I made the decision to venture into the Great Accessory Unknown. Bags, shoes, and jewellery are all great ways of enhancing an outfit, but no matter how much adorable headwear I saw, I always asserted that, "I'm not a Hat Person."

Little did I know that everyone can be a Hat Person; it just takes the right piece of headwear.

Some women are best suited for cloches, but others rock the boho knitted toque. Princesses have long worn tiaras and crowns, while screen queens once sported the mighty pillbox.

A sudden resurgence in millinery was obvious from runways all over the world. In Toronto, designer Jason Meyers showed an especially delicious array of headgear from the elegant to elaborate for Spring/Summer 2010 that covered the spectrum and dazzled the onlooking fashionistas.

As for me, I'm still experimenting with the exact Golden Ratio that will lead me to Headwear Heaven, but I'm having a great time in the interim. All women, disabled or able-bodied, currently have a rare opportunity to stock up on exciting, daring hats in innumerable shapes, styles, and colours to augment their wardrobes. It's the first time in eons that women have been encouraged to adapt the age-old custom of donning head coverings, but as an avowed accessory junkie, I'm pleased to have yet another avenue to express the innate feminine fabulosity.

With any luck, this trend will stick around even longer than skinny jeans, though hopefully I'm not being too optimistic. Though I've seen plenty of adorable lids for sale, I'm usually the only woman in a hat when I venture out and about. It's a crying shame, too, because whenever I don one of my sassy, quirky toppers, I always receive a bevy of flattery. People never fail to stop me and compliment my headwear. It's different, it's fun, and it's something to make any woman stand out in any crowd -- no cleavage required. Adding hats to your accessory wardrobe is easy and can compliment any age, figure, or complexion.

Honestly, I suppose it can be summed up thusly...

Hats are a no-brainer.

A Designer After My Own Heart

ajbray — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 05:07:38 EST

What's in a name? Well, maybe not that much, but a friend on FaceBook referred me to a collection whose name caught my attention right away. Designers Angela Irick and Antonio Wingfield are collaborating on a line called Heels with Wheels, and although the whole collection isn't available online yet, what they're showing is right in step with the more prominent names in adaptive fashion. And I'm impressed.

For those unfamiliar with adaptive fashions, let me give you some perspective. First, imagine your favourite pair of skinny jeans. You know, the ones with a little stretch in them that lift your booty up to the sky? Yeah, those. Now, picture how you put them on: one leg, then the other, then a little shimmy to get them up your thighs, followed by a few hops to get them over the aforementioned booty. Finally, you zip them with a satisfied smirk, throw on a cute button-up top, and you're out the door.

What if you couldn't hop and shimmy? What would you do if you were unable to hold something as small as a zip, or manage tiny, difficult buttons? And what if no one ever saw that nice booty because it's firmly planted in a wheelchair? These are just a few of the issues that face rolling fashionistas, and depending on the type and severity of disability, this list of concerns can grow exponentially.

To help wheeled chicks speed up their morning routines and improve independence, a number of designers are stepping up to the plate and crafting collections made with these issues in mind. Hot names like Canada's own Izzy Camilleri have even jumped into the market, upping the product availability from the foul granny-gowns and Snuggie-esque coverups of yore to genuinely covetable fashion. I'm 29 -- I have no desire to dress like I'm 79; unless, of course, it's Coco at 79. In that case, bring it on.

So, when I was shown the adorable duds on display at Heels With Wheels, I just had to spread the love.

First off, the "Lounging and Cover-Ups" section has gowns for lazy days, sipping wine by the pool, and according to the website, are even apropos for the boudoir. Unlike other loungewear created for disabled individuals, these are actually cute. And yeah, kind of sexy. All the pieces appear to be light and silky, and I love the graphic-print halter tunic and the long strapless gown. The strapless number is gathered at the bust and drapes beautifully on both the model in a power wheelchair and *gasp!* the standing model, too. Yes, ladies, these are dresses that appeal to both able-bodied and disabled women alike, and I can certainly see why. No Snuggies here, thank the gods.

The "Happy Hour" collection is perfect for the woman on the go. Easy, flattering, fitted tops and dresses that can help turn any girl into Day to Night Barbie. A quick accessories change, a sweet clutch, and any gal is ready to go from office to cocktail hour with her BFFs. I'm especially impressed with the fit of these garments. If any of you have ever seen most of the so-called 'adaptive' garments, many of them are bulky, shapeless, and completely unfeminine. It's like the designers just want to make something convenient to put on and remove, and the self esteem and sexuality of the wearer are completely ignored. Irick and her co-designer, Wingfield, clearly have other things in mind: like that we're women.

And, finally, in the "Glamour" section, we see a small sampling of two chic, easy wrap-tops. As a devoted fan of Diane von Furstenberg for more than one reason, I'll scoop up anything that is wrap-like. I have arthritis in my hands and it can often make it painful to grasp little zip pulls and fasten buttons. One day, I was wandering through Holt Renfrew and thought I'd try on a classic DVF wrap dress. It went on like a dream, tied at the waist painlessly, and suddenly I was wearing a gorgeous, sexy, yet professional frock that made me feel like a million bucks. And, I thought as I handed over my debit card, on my student budget it felt like I was paying about the same amount. But it was so worth it.

That was quite some time ago, and to this day, whenever I need a new outfit, I head straight for the DVF section at Holt's. Failing that, I scour the Internet for wrap dresses in classic cuts and prints. The wrap-tops on Heels with Wheels offer that kind of elegant simplicity, though am hoping for more colour options. As much as I love the wider, retro-cut sleeves and elongated kimono-style bodice, I'm not a huge fan of either the orangeish pattern or the gold lamé. I prefer silver any day, but I also think that some more subtle patterns or solids might be nice given the voluminous cut. I do love the slimming effect, and as this is not the full collection, for all I know there are a zillion more colours from which to choose.

As of right now, there isn't a way to buy from the site directly, but I'm hoping that will soon change. I'm jonesing to get my paws on a few of these pieces and report back my final opinion. Any time fashion and femininity meet function, I'm all over it, and Heels with Wheels is definitely on the right track from the look of these samples.

That, and I totally dig the name... ;)

*****

Update! Designer Angela Irick confirmed that yes, there are other colours, solids, and patterns available. I can't *wait* to scoop up some finery! Check back often for further updates.

*****

(All photos are from the Heels with Wheels website.)

Brake Dancing

ajbray — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 01:39:39 EST

Part of the art of blogging involves revealing yourself to the masses through an anonymous medium. Well, since I'm a relatively open, real person, it isn't such an incognito undertaking. But we're all friends on OnSugar, so here goes...

I used to be a dancer.

Actually, I still am, but not like I was when I was younger. I was born into a family of competitive, avid ballroom and swing dancers, and did them all proud in my tiny, formative years. I was learning ballroom, latin, and swing dancing before most kids could walk, and could execute a decent cha-cha and jitterbug by grade one. I loved dancing, and my parents, grandmother, and/or aunt took me everywhere they could. I seemed on a fast-track to becoming a future member of the dancesport community.

That is, until my legs failed me the first time at age nine.

I was shuttled from specialist to specialist, only to find that I already had "advanced arthritis" in my lower limbs and a major bone deformity. No one knew how to correct it, everyone was afraid to touch me at such a young age, and no one had a very optimistic prognosis.

I'll spare you the gory details, but umpteen surgeries and a world of hell later, nothing improved... except my outlook on life, that is.

When I was fourteen, the first full year I spent non-ambulatory, my parents took me to a swanky New Year's event that included dancing into the wee hours. I spent the first chunk of time being surly, missish, and not really trying to do anything other than feel sorry for myself. Suddenly, the DJ slid from a generic dance tune to one my mom and I had danced to a zillion times when I was a baby. It was, "Heaven Must Be Missing an Angel" by Tavares, and as it relates to my given name, she would sing it to me while hugging me close to her, even before I could walk. That song still makes me happy.

"Angel, c'mon, let's do this. We'll kick their asses!" my Mom smirked, then grabbed my hand and pulled me bodily out onto the dance floor.

And we danced.

I don't know how she knew, or how I knew, but somehow we both just moved in synch, wheelchair and all, and cleared the floor amidst a standing ovation from onlookers. We rocked it, and I have never once looked back. I found out later that she had requested that song specifically, knowing I'd never deny my Momma a turn about to a song from my babyhood.

Now that I'm a grown woman, my husband is the one who usually takes me out on literal 'spins' around the dance floor, and his own dance background shows. When he was a child, he took dance for fourteen years, including jazz, tap, ballet, and modern, but I've since helped him add disco, swing, ballroom, Latin, and goth dancing to his impressive repertoire. And between the two of us, we can execute a perfect wheelie tango that would sex the pants off any standing couple.

And, most importantly, we're not alone.

Across the Pond, the Brits have done it again by way of progress and mainstreaming PWDs, but, this time, the Yanks aren't too far behind.

The American DanceWheels Foundation recently released an informative email to their members that featured their most recent accomplishments:

"Ballroom and Latin Dancers using wheelchairs will be featured in a new television series, Dancing on Wheels, debuting next year in the United Kingdom. News about this innovative and controversial dance show created a buzz in the U.S. and producers from America's Got Talent asked American DanceWheels Foundation to audition for their show."

American DanceWheels is a fantastic organization, and one of the many wheelie dancing orgs here on our fair planet, along with Wheelchair Dancesport USA, Wheel Chair Dance Sport Australia, Malta Wheelchair Dancesport Association, and B.C.'s Canadian Wheelchair Dance Academy.

The release goes on to include more local news...

"ADF highlights this past year included a three-page article in the Philadelphia Inquirer about our own Reesa Marchetti and husband Dan. Reesa has had her own band for over thirty years and uses a power wheelchair to dance. She and Dan dance a mean Fox Trot and always bring the house down when they perform. You can read Reesa's story on our website, and yes, Reesa is as colorful on the dance floor as she is in life!!"

Their site is a great resource for those of us who still love to cut a rug on wheels, along with many other similar sites on the Web. For people like me who remember when the notion of dancing without legs was as bizarre as disabled models, we're in luck. Maybe we're catching up with the world; maybe the world is catching up with us, but either way...

We're taking the world by storm.

(Photos from my personal collection and New Mobility Magazine.)

'Missing' Models?! We're Right Here!

ajbray — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:48:07 EST

This is a momentous occasion in my house.

Tonight, for the first time in my life, I'm going to schedule my night (or at least my DVR) around a reality show.

Some people may know that I'm not terribly fond of eliminate-y reality shows. I don't care for the banal dialogue, pointless standing around, and overused pregnant pauses for dramatic license. I also find it excessively irritating that to really appreciate the show, one must follow it religiously, much like a soap opera, but without as many any marriages to amnesiac evil twins who, in the search for their estranged fathers, discover they had four children whilst in a cult, underwent a sex change, and have been brought back from the dead...twice. And, now that I think about it, even that sounds way more interesting than who can swallow a bug fastest or stand Flavor Flav the longest.

But, tonight will change all that. The Brits have finally decided to export the coolest, most fabulous thing since Topshop... Britain's Missing Top Model.

The concept is basically the same as [Insert Country Here]'s Next Top Model, except these ladies are gorgeous, glamourous, and all disabled.

After doing some digging on the actual BBC site for the show, there should be a badass animated interloper to spice up the action named Disability Bitch. I'm hoping she doesn't get edited out for the export, but if not, we can expect some seriously sassy gems like these throughout the show (from the UK site):

"Hi, I'm Disability Bitch. I'm disabled and I love it. Everyone should be disabled. Everyone should be like me."

"Mostly I use a crutch, but when I want to slip into a pair of high heels - which makes it almost impossible for someone with my lack of balance to even think about walking - I have a wheelchair to match. Of course, I'd prefer to be carried around on a sedan chair. Preferably by semi-naked men. But even I can't have everything, more's the pity."

"I love gossip, especially gossip about disabled people. Barely a day goes by when I don't find myself scanning the tabloids for news of Heather Mills."

"I eat doughnuts and I hate exercise. Quite frankly, I don't see why disabled people should have to do exercise in the first place."

DB will also be interviewing the models as they get the boot, one by one, so I'm hoping for some juicy, catty tidbits, but with as classy as these girls look, I may or may not get my wish.

The only thing I am a little confused about is the 'Missing' part. I mean, I'm a disabled model, and I'm not missing. I'm sitting right here on my tushy, typing out a blog. I know a lot of other gorgeous disabled models, and they're not missing either -- they know exactly where they are and where they're going. Professionally, I haven't really faced all that many issues, except maybe trying to explain to photographers that "just a few stairs" is NOT equivalent to wheelchair accessible, and no, I can't always move that way. We already have a great network within the community, from runway shows to photography exhibits, but I can see that we are 'missing' from mainstream media. Still, we're out there, and it's good to see we're finally being taken seriously by AB people. And this..well, this is bloody brilliant, if you ask me.

The other bummer is that the BBC.co.uk page on the show is still up, and since this show was aired last season, I already know who wins. Unless you want the ending to be spoilt, I don't recommend going directly there. Instead, head to the BBC America page for the episode guide, intros to the models, and a little more about the show. If you don't mind knowing who wins before the show even premiers, the UK page has tons more information. There, you'll find quotes, downloads, message boards, extensive photo galleries for each model, and background info on the judges. Even though I already know which of the stunning women makes it to her very own photo spread, I'll still be watching every episode as it airs.

So, if you're trying to get a hold of me tonight at 9 PM, it'll be for naught. I'll be watching eight beautiful women as they attempt to break into the modelling industry and shatter stereotypes along the way.

(Hey, Canada, the US... where's our Missing Top Model show?!)

Bananas Roster [Change]

ajbray — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 04:45:57 EDT

Although the ratings may be somewhat lower than other Bravo (sur)reality shows featuring vapid, alarmingly affluent label whores, I'll admit that I secretly adore the Rachel Zoe Project. As a true fashionista, I love having a tiny, grimy window into the world of a celebrity stylist, however unattractive I may find the main star. Rachel Zoe may not have the figure of a post-pubescent female, but the woman is a damned genius, if I may say so. It's not my job to critique her body (or lack thereof), so I can't really understand the obsession with her weight (or lack thereof) in the tabloids, but I do have a theory about those that do. And yeah, I'll go there -- I think it has something to do with jealousy.

Not that I think many people envy her opulently displayed clavicle, but she's an incredibly prestigious, important woman in one of the most incredibly prestigious, important industries. And yeah, she's skinny.

But, after watching the latest episode of her edited exploits on Bravo, it also hits home that she is a real entrepreneuse. She deals with time crunches, wonky scenarios, and pilfering employees. Not really unlike your local Macy's, Neiman's, or Holt's. (Get those assistants clear plastic purses, Zoe!) Great for TV drama; bad for the bottom line.

I will say that I'm incredibly happy that the chopped team member was Taylor; I don't know if I could've handled another season of her unattractive bitching. Between her fried, brittle "blond" emo tresses, the insubordinate behaviour, and her pervasive meanness to every living creature, I would've needed to up my Zoloft just to watch Season 2 with her aboard.

Oh, wait... I would've just changed the channel. Bravo for cutting her Bravo (ummm..I mean Rachel and Rodger).

Long Live the McQueen

ajbray — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 01:05:33 EST

I was reading my WWD Accessories guide this morning and was completely taken by the beautiful two-page spread on Alexander McQueen's outlandish and awe-inspiring shoe designs. As an avowed and unabashed Shoe Whore with an almost fetishistic footwear adoration, Mr McQueen's creations have been near and dear to my heart since the first time they strutted into my comprehension.

From his whimsical, romantic flats to the iconic Armadillo shoes, every single example has been beautiful in some way, even if not exactly 'wearable.'

But, today, the world lost a genius.

The post I was going to write early this morning on his dark, kinky-lovely designs was completely overshadowed by the news that Mr McQueen has passed away at the age of 40.

Lately, it seems that the world has lost a great many artists, and all far too young. Maybe it's because I had met one of these electrified, talented people personally, and saw the impact of his death on his friends, family, and art itself, but either way, we're all losing out as a result. Writers, sculptors, and now one of fashion's most daring, thought-provoking designers have all left their mark on the world, and what's more, have left an even larger hole in our collective conscious, as we know there was more to come. So much more.

So, with a mere few days left before Valentine's Day, I'll leave you with these sweet pumps. Not his most macabre work, but the man was a master at hopping from Dominatrix to Diva seamlessly.

And that, my friends, is an art form in an of itself.

Long live the McQueen.

(RIP Alexander McQueen, 16 March 1969 - 11 February 2010)