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| © freepik / Freepik |
In 2021, while studying design, Destiny Pinto received a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis, an event that altered her life. This ailment impacted her entire body, including her hands, thereby hindering her ability to create digital art, something she enjoyed.
“It affected my entire body. It affected my hands and the way I was traditionally working with art because I would do digital drawings,” she confessed. Instead of giving up, Pinto turned to virtual design, teaching herself how to create and 3D model on her laptop—much easier on her hands.
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| © bydestinypinto / Instagram |
Destiny Pinto, finding a void in the clothing industry as she adjusted to her own needs, realized fashionable clothing wasn’t available for those using medical necessities – compression gloves, hearing aids, and stoma bags. Speaking on her decision, she shared her project began by transforming items she wore, especially compression garments, into stylish designs she desired.
Simultaneously, her close friend underwent ostomy surgery, needing an ostomy bag. These two experiences directly led to her initial designs: one compression glove for her, one ostomy bag cover for her friend.
Therefore, Pinto began working to offer glamorous accessories intended to pair with these frequently neglected devices.
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| © Breno Cardoso / Pexels, © bydestinypinto / Instagram |
When Destiny Pinto first began posting her designs on Instagram, she didn’t get many viewers. Pinto notes that “The people I did reach were people with specific health conditions or who have an interest in assistive design. I kept at it and have let that initial sense of purpose drive,” explaining what motivated her continued efforts.
After more than twelve months of blending medical equipment with current styles, Pinto’s creations have become incredibly popular, gaining millions of views online. This success demonstrates that fashion can be practical and stylish for all. Pinto describes the reaction as “incredible” and “overwhelming, in the best possible way.”
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| © destinypinto / Instagram |
This experience has fostered Destinypinto’s self-acceptance. As she notes, dealing with rheumatoid arthritis can lead to self-doubt, but creating art from her experiences and connecting with many others has been validating.
It’s wonderful to support others through passion! Many individuals, such as the mother crafting diverse dolls for children with disabilities, do this.