Author, Unstoppable in Stilettos

“It all starts with self love. You have to love yourself in order for the world to love you. I knew from the time I was small that loving and accepting myself was the key.” –Lauren Ruotolo

Lauren Ruotolo is living proof that big things come in small packages. Standing at just 4’2’’, Lauren refuses to accept limiting labels, and embraces life with a positive resolve and a charismatic personality that outshines her disability.

Born with McCune Albright symptom, Lauren has refused to let her disability define her. “I was born a fighter. My mom said I was that way when I was a baby. When I was little I would always want to do what the other kids were doing, so I’d find a way to do it.”

By the time she was five, her femur bone had broken so many times that she had a decision to make. “They told me I needed to decide if I wanted to spend my life on crutches or in a wheelchair. I wanted to play with my friends so I chose crutches.”

She credits her parents’ honesty as a key factor in her development. “My parents were always really honest about what I’d need to do to get what I wanted. They would tell me if I wanted to play with the other kids I would have to work hard and really do my best at physical therapy.”

Doing her best and setting goals has been a practice Lauren has kept throughout her life. “I always set goals when I was little and I’m still that way. Setting a goal and achieving it gets me pretty revved up.”

Lauren’s choice to work in a field known for its focus on superficial beauty may seem odd to some, but for her it was a natural fit. “I was always driven to the limelight. I was fascinated by television and music and anything creative. My mother said I was always singing and dancing even as a baby. I was never afraid of the spotlight.”

In 2009, Lauren compiled her life philosophies into an article for Marie Claire Magazine entitled, “Get Shorty,” which became one of the most-responded to articles in the history of the magazine.

The response to her article inspired her to write a book filled with her hard won wisdom and success strategy tips. Unstoppable in Stilettos, is an inspiring and educational read for anyone who needs a reminder that nothing is impossible with the right mindset.

“I believe God only gives you what you can handle, and that I was given this disease to make me confident. I have complete confidence in myself and my abilities…when I’m all dressed up I love to put on those stilettos and strut!”

To find out more about Lauren go to laurenruotolo.com