Founder and president of FORDE'S FUNCTIONAL FASHIONS, INC._^® , Patricia A. Forde, MA,RN,CEAC has dedicated the last 25 years of her business and professional life to two inter-related agenda: making available affordable and attractive clothing and accessories, and meeting the needs of persons with physical disabilities, including aging persons. Since 1990, Pat has worked exclusively to bring functional fashions and accessible lifestyles to persons with limited mobility and special needs.

As a young clothing buyer for a Division of The May Department Stores, Pat traveled around the world to produce private label clothing programs that were distinctive because of their product quality and value at affordable prices.

Her personal experience as a care giver for several physically disabled and aging family members highlighted for Pat the unsuitability of "off the rack" clothing and accessories for persons who were accustomed to wearing clothes of their choice. As she watched her loved ones struggle to maintain their independence, Pat made two commitments that have changed her life, and the lives of persons with limited mobility and special needs.

First, Pat took her extensive product development and retail experience in a new direction that focuses on outerwear, clothing and accessories that are "easy to use," often referred to as "adaptive clothing." These items are so easy to use, in fact, that many of them are used by the general population. Other items are designed to meet the special needs of persons with disabilities. FORDE'S FUNCTIONAL FASHIONS® products are used by persons with disabilities in over 40 states.

Volunteer activities with institutionalized persons with physical as well as developmental and cognitive disabilities highlighted for Pat the need for affordable, attractive, adaptive clothing and accessories to promote the dignity and independence of all persons, even those who have never had the opportunity to work and play in the community .

Second, Pat immersed herself in the clinical, psychological, social and practical aspects of having a physical disability, whether because of a developmental challenge, injury or illness in adult life, or aging. She has been awarded a Master of Arts degree in Gerontology and is a Registered Nurse and Certified Environmental Access Consultant .

Pat's overall expertise in the area of maintaining independence despite limited mobility or special needs makes her a popular speaker and consultant. She has presented to a variety of international, national, regional and local organizations including: the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center, the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America, the American Society on Aging, Missouri Department of Mental Health, Missouri Head Injury Association, Missouri Assistive Technology Exposition, Association on Aging with Developmental Disabilities, The Missouri Rehabilitation Association, and many more.