Fashion, MS, and Finding Your Style: An Interview with Ardra Shephard

Living Fashionably with Multiple Sclerosis: An Inspiring Conversation Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic condition that affects the central nervous system. It can manifest in various ways, impacting mobility, sensation, and cognitive function. While MS presents unique challenges, it doesn't mean compromising on personal style or living a full, vibrant life. In this interview, we speak with Ardra Shephard, a remarkable individual living with MS, who is also the host of the Canadian reality TV show ‘Fashion Dis.’ The show bravely puts individuals with disabilities at the forefront of the fashion and beauty world, challenging perceptions and celebrating individuality. Finding Inspiration and Becoming a Role Model Ardra shares a powerful insight: when individuals don't see themselves represented in the media or culture, they often step up to become the role models they wish they had. This was a driving force for Ardra. She realized that there was a gap in fashionable representation for people using mobility aids. Her advocacy isn't just about making the world a better place for others; it's also a personal mission to live in a world where disability and mobility aids are not stigmatized but accepted and celebrated. 'Fashion Dis': Challenging Perceptions Through Style The show ‘Fashion Dis’ offers a unique opportunity for the non-disabled world to connect with and understand people with disabilities. Ardra highlights a crucial point: media often portrays people with disabilities during their most challenging moments, leading to a perception that their lives are solely defined by hardship. While acknowledging that living with MS and any disability is indeed hard, Ardra emphasizes that life, in general, has its difficulties. ‘Fashion Dis’ aims to showcase the ‘best days’ of people with disabilities, positioning them not as subjects of pity, but as active participants and innovators in the fashion and beauty industries – sectors where they have historically been overlooked. Adaptive Fashion and Inclusive Beauty A significant aspect of ‘Fashion Dis’ involves spotlighting adaptive and universally designed clothing and beauty products. These are innovations designed to make dressing and personal care easier and more accessible for individuals with diverse needs. The show also features participants in professional photoshoots, creating magazine-quality images that contribute to a growing body of fashion photography that authentically includes disability. This visual representation is powerful in shifting societal attitudes and fostering a more inclusive fashion landscape. Balancing Advocacy, Creativity, and Health Ardra discusses the delicate balance required to manage her role as an advocate, a creator, and an individual living with MS. She finds that publicly sharing her experiences with MS through her blog, ‘Tripping On Air,’ has been a therapeutic process, even though it means talking about MS more. As an entrepreneur and creator, a certain level of ‘hustle’ is necessary, and Ardra admits to sometimes overextending herself, occasionally at the expense of household chores or even physiotherapy. She reflects on the universal quest for a ‘balanced life,’ acknowledging that it’s a challenging ideal for many. With MS, there's an added layer of consideration: planning activities with the awareness of potential limitations and the desire to make the most of one's capabilities. The Psychological Wellness of Passion A key takeaway from Ardra’s approach is her prioritization of enjoyment and fulfillment. She often asks herself, “Am I enjoying this? Is this worth it?” Ardra acknowledges that she sometimes allows herself to become physically depleted when pursuing creative endeavors. However, she finds immense psychological wellness and a unique ‘high’ in engaging in activities she loves. This highlights the importance of pursuing passions for overall well-being, even when managing a chronic condition. Advocating for Greater Accessibility Ardra speaks passionately about the need for improved accessibility. She recalls early frustrations with the lack of main-floor bathrooms in public spaces as her mobility needs increased. While acknowledging that MS is inherently unfair, she was determined not to let it negatively impact her social life. Beyond immediate personal needs, Ardra points to systemic issues, such as the airline industry’s shortcomings in serving the disabled population. She firmly believes that lasting change requires a fundamental shift in how society perceives disability, and storytelling, through platforms like television and film, is a powerful tool for this transformation. By featuring authentic narratives, media can educate and foster greater understanding and empathy. The Future of Disability Representation Ardra Shephard’s work with ‘Fashion Dis’ and her blog ‘Tripping On Air’ are testaments to the power of visibility and authentic storytelling. By placing individuals with disabilities at the center of fashion, beauty, and everyday life, she is not only challenging stigmas but also creating a more inclusive and equitable world. Her journey underscores the importance of self-advocacy, pursuing passions, and demanding accessibility, proving that living with MS, or any disability, does not diminish one's capacity for style, creativity, or a fulfilling life. When to Consult a Doctor About MS Symptoms It is crucial to consult a doctor if you experience any new or worsening neurological symptoms that could be indicative of Multiple Sclerosis. These may include: Vision problems: Blurred vision, double vision, or vision loss. Numbness or tingling: Sensations of pins and needles, or loss of feeling in parts of the body. Fatigue: Overwhelming tiredness that is not relieved by rest. Muscle weakness or spasms: Difficulty with movement, stiffness, or involuntary muscle contractions. Balance and coordination problems: Dizziness, unsteadiness, or difficulty walking. Bladder or bowel problems: Issues with control or urgency. Cognitive changes: Problems with memory, concentration, or processing information. Early

In summary, timely diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and prevention-focused care improve long-term health outcomes.