The creator of this Dunk, 17-year-old Zoe Taaffe,is diagnosed with Granulomatosis with polyangiitis, which is a rare autoimmune disease that causes a severe inflammation of the blood vessels. How rare is it? Only1 in 1.2 million paediatric patients have the disease. Granulomatosis with polyangiitis Can affect the ears, nose, throat, lungs, and kidneys. Blood flow to organs and tissues may be reduced, which will cause damage.
A closer examination of the zebra-esque pattern on the upper Zoe’s name smartly hidden in the print. The print also holds another secret- it is inspired by the steroid-caused stretch marks on Zoe’s body.
“Just like a zebra’s stripes, I believe that everyone is unique,” she said. “I’m also a huge advocate for body positivity on social media—young kids need to learn to love their bodies no matter what. This experience taught me that what you’re going through doesn’t define you—it’s what you do with it that counts.”
Zoe’s dunk also features interchangeable Swooshes, one of which reads ”one in a million” a call to the rare nature of her disease. A rubber strap sports the follwing: ”Zoe”, ”one in a million” ”FEARLESS” and a Swoosh. Connected to the aforementioned strap is a University of Oregon inspired nursing logo, which is also seen on the yellow and green insoles. On the respective lace aglets are seen ”Zoe” and ”FEARLESS.”
Underneath the white midsole is a glow-in-the-dark outsole.
“I think my shoe is a constant reminder that we’re all special in our own way, we all have rare qualities, and we’re all one in a million,” she emphasized. “I hope it inspires people to be fearless and get out there to achieve whatever they want.”
“This experience taught me that what you’re going through doesn’t define you—it’s what you do with it that counts.”
Zoe Taaffe
The ”Doernbecher” Nike Dunk Low is anticipated to release imminently at nike.com and select retail locations.
Nike Dunk Low DR7305-100 $TBA 2022
