Plus-Size Disabled Model Transforming The Way We Look At Beauty

POSING for modelling shoots in swimming pools and remote castles may sound glamorous but for aspiring model Katie Knowles, it’s more than just a creating a good photo. The 25-year-old from Newcastle wants to make history by becoming the first plus size disabled model in the UK. Katie was diagnosed with crippling conditions disc degenerative disease and spinal stenosis - or as she calls them ‘the granny diseases,’ as they can result in loss of mobility, pain and paralysis - when she was 15. After surgery and a few months of rehabilitation, Katie was once again leading an active life – enjoying her love of badminton, horse riding and ballet. However, her recovery was short lived and as the pain worsened she had to undergo major surgery four years later. Videographer / director: David Hare Producer: Nathalie Bonney, Nick Johnson Editor: Sonia Estal Photo Credits: Bylaurajayne, Jade Baker Photography, Lucy-Rose Wilson-Green, Craig McNair