Britain's Missing Top Model: Debbie

3 months ago 04th Jul 13:43

Debbie van der Putten
Age:22
From:Netherlands
Height:5'4"
Occupation:Researcher
Disability:Arm amputee

Debbie grew up in Helmond, a city in the Netherlands that is more like a village where everyone knows everyone else. She lives with her mum, dad, sister and their pet dog.

At nineteen years old and on her way to party on the beaches of Spain, she was in a terrible bus accident. As a result, she lost her right arm, which she says was lucky because she's actually left-handed.

At the time, Debbie was a typical teenager with a boyfriend, a gaggle of mates, and a penchant for clothes. Not much has changed then, since she still enjoys shopping, movies, and dressing up for a girls' night out.

Okay, so there were some downsides: mum became even more protective of her than before, and she had to give up breakdancing. But Debbie evens the score by modelling. She finds the catwalk cathartic, and photo shoots boost her self-esteem.

Debbie has a glam job travelling the world to research disability-friendly holidays. Though single, she did meet a nice Norwich lad during a recent trip to South Africa.