Fashionistas who use wheelchairs have been forever wishing to take over the runway during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York and it finally happened earlier this month — and we have the Italian designer FTL Moda to thank. In its “Loving You” show, FTL Moda and famed designer Antonio Urzi decided to pair some of the best models in the world with experienced models with disabilities, and the sight on the catwalk was something to behold.

Of course, stunning women with spinal cord injuries were featured, including Tamara Mena. A paraplegic from California, she was one of the only American models in the show, as most of the models were found with the assistance of the London-based agency Models of Diversity. Regardless of which continent they hailed from, they all donned futuristic designs by Urzi, who has designed for Lady Gaga.

One of the most talked about models in the show was Jack Eyers, a 25-year-old personal trainer from the United Kingdom who was born with a smaller tibia. He is the first amputee male to model in New York Fashion Week and was handpicked by Urzi to be included.

Also, since many of the models with disabilities in the show have spinal cord injuries, the designer decided to team up with Italian spinal cord injury research foundation, Fondazione Vertical, to help raise funds.

And it wasn’t just FTL Moda who featured models with disabilities. Megan Silcott, an 18 year old paralyzed woman, was included in the Nina Performo show. She is recovering from a rare autoimmune disorder and can now walk with the aid of a walker

Nondisabled folks who saw the show may have wondered, “Why do models with disabilities on the catwalk matter?” It’s because it’s a change in mindset, or one we hope will happen because of the powerful visuals. We may not stroll with long lanky legs, but we are just as beautiful as anyone one else.

What did you think of the disabled models in NYC Fashion Week?