'Ability over disability': Dartmouth entrepreneur set to open new storefront
Nov 15, 2024
DARTMOUTH, Mass. (WPRI) — Paige Santos is a firm believer that anything is possible.
That's why she has never let her disability get in the way of her aspirations.
Santos was born with cerebral palsy — a neurological disorder that causes limited movement and weakened muscles.
"Believe in yourself and do what you feel is right for you, not by other people," Santos said.
The Dartmouth woman has overcome a number of obstacles since her diagnosis, and what originally started as at-home therapy to strengthen her left hand has since blossomed into so much more.
Santos launched Paige's Paracord back in 2013, shortly after her parents gifted her a survival bracelet-making kit.
The unique bracelets are made of strong, military-grade cord that can be unraveled and used for outdoor survival. She eventually added "and more" to her business' name, since she also makes keychains, baskets, wreaths, mats and whatever else she can think of.
Santos is now expanding her business even further by moving far beyond selling her art from her home. She's set to open a storefront off State Road at the end of the month.
"I had goals I had to meet, and then I met all those goals — the parameters me and my mom set — and then we had this opportunity fall into our lap," Santos explained. "We were like, 'Let's run with it.'"
Santos lives by the motto "ability over disability."
"I show my ability over my disability in my creations," she said. "It helps me with my hand dexterity ... and [the business] will help me socialize with people of any age, gender or ability."
Marianne Santos told 12 News she's proud of her daughter's accomplishments.
"She always wants something to do," her mother said. "It will help her get into a routine and keep her socialized."
Paige is thrilled for her next chapter.
"I was getting tired of working in our living room and selling at local craft fairs," she said. "Now I can sell four times a week."
The world hasn't always been kind to Paige, which is why Marianne sees her daughter as an inspiration.
"People look at other people with disabilities like they can't do it," her mother explained. "She's far from that."
"We always encouraged her to do what she wanted to do, be the best she can be and be kind to everyone she comes in contact with, whether they're kind to her or not," she continued.
Paige's Paracord and More officially opens Nov. 30. Those who can't swing by her shop can still place orders online. Paige said she's dedicated to expanding her business and plans on also continuing to sell at craft fairs across New England.
Facebook: Paige's Paracord and More | Instagram: @paigesparacord | TikTok: @paracordp97 Etsy: Paige's Paracord and More
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