Intimately.co has the privilege of interviewing Instagram influencer Paula Carozzo. Born in Venezuela and raised in Miami, Paula Carozzo is a disabled lifestyle blogger and influencer. She was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of 5 after an anoxic episode from a surgery. After moving to the US for advanced treatment options, Paula went from being physically impaired in a wheelchair to regaining muscle strength to walk again. Her enlightenment for fashion and beauty has inspired her to create a movement that would resonate with other disabled folk and all people from all walks of life through social media. Paula currently uses a fashionable cane to help her live an independent life while rocking her style on the streets of Miami.
What is your favorite place to shop?
Zara! I love how much you can transform the minimalist style and enhance it to your taste. How would you describe your style in 4 four words? Edgy Street Classy Modern
What is the biggest misconception you hear about spastic diplegia? I feel that one of the biggest misconceptions about being spastic diplegic is that I won't be able to have children of my own. Spastic diplegia is a form of cerebral palsy that affects the lower extremities in poor muscle coordination, tightness and stiffness. Being spastic diplegic does not impact a person's fertility in any way. Women with severe forms of CP have had successful pregnancies in the past. However, there is always the option of surrogacy if things look a bit complicated.
What do you wish abled-bodied people would know about disabilities in general? I wish abled-bodied people knew that the more that they point out differences in others the more differences they create. When I am out, I get asked everyday "what happened to you?" or "what happened to your leg?". I understand that able-bodied people are curious to know why I walk the way I do, but curiosity has limits. Able bodied people should keep in mind that even if something looks like a painless injury, it probably wasn't and it's not always right to ask. What is your favorite quote about self-confidence? “Don't be satisfied with stories, how things have gone with others. Unfold your own myth."― Rumi What outfit do you feel the most confident in? Sweatpants and a hoodie. What do you wish abled-bodied people knew about dating and sex in relation to disabilities? I wish that able-bodied people knew how difficult it can be for people with disabilities to open up sexually. It takes a toll on me mentally and emotionally to have to sit with my partner and explain that I have physical limitations for sex, especially when my partner has never encountered a situation of this sort in the past. However, just because I have a physical disability doesn't mean I can't have sex. We can have sex, just in our way and that's what makes it a unique experience. Follow Paula for more content @pauuzzo on Instagram
