Teen with Duchenne muscular dystrophy to model in fashion show in Las Vegas

MARSHFIELD, Mass. — A Marshfield teen who has a severe form of muscular dystrophy is heading to his second fashion show to model adaptive clothing with other kids and young adults who have disabilities.

Joey Chorzewski, 18, has Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a genetic disease that has no known cure and causes rapid muscle loss first in the upper legs and then in the arms.

Although he has had his share of struggles, the Marshfield High School senior never lets any obstacle get in the way of his dreams.

“I just think you only live once,” Joey said. “So just make the most out of it.”

Last September, Joey was one of about 30 young people chosen out of hundreds to participate in the Runway of Dreams Foundation event in New York City.

He and the other models wore adaptive clothing. Joey wore a pull-over with snaps in the back, jeans with an elastic waistband and shoes with Velcro – all items that make it easier for him to get dressed in his wheelchair and wear the same cool styles as other kids.

"It was great getting to walk the runway," Joey said. "It just seems great. Everyone is included."
His parents, Denise and Mike, cheered Joey on from the audience, amazed by their son and hero's courage and positive attitude.

“Joey never complains,” Mike said. “I’m really proud of him.”

Next week, Joey will head to Las Vegas to participate in the next Runway of Dreams Foundation event modeling Zappos clothing. The motto for the foundation is fitting for Joey’s outlook on life: “Where there’s a will, there’s a runway.”

“It makes him feel alive,” Denise said. “It makes him feel excited, and he can fit right in with everybody else, which is the most important thing.”

Cox Media Group