Models are often told they need to work hard if they want to make it in the industry. It’s something quadriplegic model Angela Rockwood is very familiar with.
Angela began modelling when she was 17, but following a horrific car crash at the age of 26, which saw her lose the use of her legs and left her with extremely limited use of her arms, she became wheelchair bound.
But courageous Angela didn’t let the life-changing accident stop her achieving her goal and doing what she loves.
Now, 11 years after the accident, she has achieved her dream. Not only is she modelling again, but she has landed a national campaign with US brand Nordstrom.
The 37-year-old is also one of the stars of Sundance Channel series Push Girls, which looks at the real-life struggles of four inspiring women in wheelchairs.
“After my accident, the thought of modelling didn’t even cross my mind,” Angela told US magazine People.
“But what did occur to me was that I had been transported to the realm of the paralysed for a reason. I realised I had a huge choice to make: to go down the positive path, be an example for others in similar positions and be a voice.”
Once she made her decision to take a positive outlook on life, she knew she wanted to continue her modelling career.
“There weren’t many models in chairs to make a statement like, ‘Hey, we are consumers too!’ and ‘Who doesn’t want to look sexy or fashionable sitting in a wheelchair?’” she said.
And she was just what fashion retail giant Nordstrom was looking for models with disabilities to feature in an upcoming ad campaign. Angela submitted pictures and was chosen to face the campaign.
“When I was on set for Nordstrom, I felt like I was at ‘home’ again,” she said.
“It was like throwing a fighter back in the ring to win their belt after a major setback from a recovering injury.”
Related video: When a falling tree smashed through the roof of her car as she drove it, Heidi Edwards' life was changed forever.
