The Bionic Model Shattering Beauty Myths: Marsha Elle’s Inspiring Journey

Marsha Elle was born with a rare condition called PPFD, which led to her becoming an amputee shortly after birth. Now a singer-songwriter, bionic model, and motivational speaker, her mission is clear: “to share a message of hope through music.” In a society that places heavy emphasis on appearances, Marsha once doubted that her talent would be embraced. However, she faced her fears, held her head high, and now inspires others to embrace their true selves.

Marsha Elle’s childhood was not an easy ride.

Back when she was in school, Marsha Elle would hide out in the hallway and be late to class in an effort to avoid her peers' hurtful messages and judging eyes. The kids would ask questions, like, "Why do you walk like that?" And it wasn't just their words that made her feel insecure, it was also that she knew, despite everything, she was doing her best, and it wasn't enough.

She would wear long jackets on hot summer days to hide her prosthetic. It took Marsha some time to understand that doing her best was more than enough. Today, she proudly struts down runways, models for different clothing brands, and turns her struggles into music.

She took her own experience and became an example for others.

As a young girl, Marsha Elle struggled to see models who looked like her. To address this, she took matters into her own hands and became the very role model she needed. She receives numerous messages of support from those who relate to her story, which further encourages her to face her fears and insecurities with bravery and confidence.

Music keeps her going when other things bring her down.

Marsha’s first encounter with other amputees her own age was life-changing. Feeling inspired, she wrote her song, Unlimbted, crediting music as the saving grace that kept her spirits high and hopeful. Now, through her music, Marsha Elle spreads her message of hope to others.

Marsha Elle is thankful for her body every single day.

Marsha embraces her body’s resilience, allowing her to engage in a variety of activities, like climbing and hiking. She’s always seeking new experiences due to her spontaneous nature. She’s the type of person who, in order to overcome her fear of heights, books a ski trip. As she puts it, “The only way to overcome a fear is to confront it head-on.”

Marsha is also a motivational speaker, and her talks truly make you reflect deeply. Here’s what she has to say, "I want to encourage and implore you to go to the mirror, look yourself in the face. Say it and write it down every day, I am beautiful, I have a purpose, I will do what I have set out to do. Every single day say that to yourself — because then you will retrain your mind to be that person — because you are amazing.

You have to be the first person to say that. You are beautiful. You are strong. You are powerful. Despite what she is thinking, despite who out there is pouring negative things in your mind, you have to be the first person. You will see how everyone will embrace that because you started it, you started a fire. I do it every day."

Take a look at other models who are redefining beauty standards and embracing diversity.