Living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) means facing unique challenges daily, like finding appropriate clothes. As a disabled artist, I often draw motivation from the vibrant community of individuals who share similar experiences. One such connection led me to a remarkable woman, Jane Hash. Her advocacy work and innovative initiatives continue to inspire me and others navigating life with OI.
Clothes Through Community: Finding Support and Motivation
Facebook is a hub for communities of all kinds, and for those of us living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, it offers spaces where we can share advice and trade stories. I’ve joined several OI-focused groups, and while everyone has their own approach to managing chronic pain and social challenges, the shared understanding creates a sense of camaraderie.
Through one of these groups, I met Jane Hash—a fellow OI-er with the same type as me. Jane is not only an advocate but also a podcast host, and she invited me to appear on her show, Hash it Out with Jane. We discussed my book, my artwork, and what it means to navigate life with art and disability. The experience was empowering, and you can listen to that episode HERE.
Inspiration Through Advocacy: Jane’s Journey and Motivation
Jane’s life has been an incredible source of motivation for me. Growing up, I was told that my lifespan might be limited to around 40 years. But Jane, who has surpassed that milestone, defies those expectations in the best ways. Her activism, campaigns, and fearless advocacy are a testament to her resilience. She is proof that living with Brittle Bone Disease doesn’t have to limit your voice or impact.
Clothes for All: Classy Little Fashions Foundation
Jane’s advocacy doesn’t stop at podcasts and protests. She co-founded Classy Little Fashions, a foundation that creates age-appropriate, professional clothing tailored for people with disabilities. For individuals with unique body types, finding clothes that fit well and look stylish is nearly impossible.
Classy Little Fashions designs clothing that not only fits comfortably but also accommodates practical needs like wheelchair transfers and bathroom access. Clients send their measurements and style preferences, and the foundation delivers outfits that blend functionality with fabulous design.
When Jane approached me for help with graphic design for the foundation, I gladly offered my services. In return, I received custom-made clothing: three pairs of jeans, black pants, and a shirt. These pieces have become wardrobe staples, and I’ll soon need more because I wear them so often!
For someone like me—30 years old, 2’7”, and navigating life with Brittle Bone Disease—finding clothes off the rack is impossible. Kids’ clothing doesn’t suit my age or personal style (sorry, Disney Princess shirts aren’t my thing), but Classy Little Fashions changes the game. They give people with disabilities the confidence and comfort that comes from wearing clothes designed just for them.
Art, Disability, and the Power of Community
As a disabled artist, my journey with art and disability has been deeply shaped by the support and creativity of people like Jane. Her ability to overcome obstacles and create meaningful change in the world of disability advocacy inspires me in my artistic pursuits. Whether I’m painting, creating jewelry, or writing, I carry the motivation from these experiences with me.
For anyone living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, or navigating similar challenges, I hope Jane’s story—and my own—serve as a reminder that our voices, creativity, and resilience can have a powerful impact.
Whether you’re part of the OI community, an artist, or someone seeking motivation, remember that connecting with others and sharing your journey can create ripples of change.
Fulfilling Fashion Wishes and Building Confidence
Jane, Jess, and Carol at Classy Little Fashions are fulfilling fashion wishes one outfit at a time, helping individuals with disabilities look and feel their best. Their work reminds us that disability shouldn’t limit personal expression or confidence.
For more stories about Osteogenesis Imperfecta, the intersection of art and disability, and the motivation behind my journey as a disabled artist, stay tuned to my blog. Let’s continue to break barriers together!