Jack Eyers, a male amputee model, made fashion history last Sunday as he made an inspiring appearance on the runway during New York Fashion Week.
The 25-year-old model's leg removal nine years ago did not stop him from walking in the FTL Moda show with other disabled individuals from around the world. Hailing from the United Kingdom, Eyers became part of a modeling team that showcased the designs of Antonio Urzi.
"It all feels so surreal "” I can't believe this is actually happening," Eyers told Caters News in a release. "To be the first male amputee model on a New York Fashion Week runway feels amazing - it feels like such a big deal."
He went on to express his sentiments on not letting disability hinder one's achievement of goals.
"I just want to show that having a disability doesn't need to hold you back," the 25-year-old model further said. "I want people to see me and to realize that there needs to be more disabled models walking the runway."
Born with proximal femoral focal deficiency, Eyers grew up with such condition that greatly affected the growth of his leg. He shared his experiences of being bullied in primary school and wanting to have his leg surgically removed at seven years old. However, he was asked to wait until his leg stopped growing.
"It felt like this devil attached to me," Eyers said. "When I finally got it removed, it felt like I'd been reborn."
When he learned about Models for Diversity agency, he made the decision to take up modeling and has now earned a nomination for the Man of the Year award for Men's Health magazine.
Eyers currently works as a spokesperson for the said agency, which seeks to support diversity in the fashion world.
"I just want to show that having a disability doesn't need to hold you back," Eyers said. "I want people to see me, and to realize that there needs to be more disabled models walking the runway."
This year's Fashion Week also brought in "American Horror Story' actress Jamie Brewer, who was recognized as the first woman with Down's syndrome to walk the runway.
The actress showcased designs by Carrie Hammer and showed support for the designer's "Role Models Not Runway Models' campaign.
"It's a true inspiration being a role model for young women to encourage them in being who they are and showing who they are," Brewer shared.
