Posted Feb. 26, 2008 –  “Rip the Runway: Model Search ’08” is a one-hour special that follows the journey of four hopefuls from casting and rehearsals to the  runway. Christina Mendez is one of them. 

As a young teenager, Christina’s main aspiration was to become a top model. On the verge of recognition, Christina and her high school sweetheart became pregnant with a son. Though the news of gestation was exciting, her modeling career would be placed on hold for childcare. Then, an unseen revelation, her son, Daniel, was diagnosed with autism at the age of two.  When a teacher informed Christina of the devastating news, she painted the prognosis of a brain dead child for life. Following her heart, Christina, at the tender age of 22, left her job to care for her son full-time.

Following childbirth, weight gain became a major issue for the otherwise diminutive woman. Christina tried many diet plans including some unhealthy ones, in an attempt to lose the baby weight. After three years with no major weight lost, Christina finally came to terms with her new body frame and came out of retirement in 2007 as a plus size model. Now 10 yrs later, with Daniel older, Christina is ready to pursue her dream of becoming a recognized face.
 
Through dedication and persistence, Christina has been able to make a name for herself in a short time. Though signed to Goddess Agency, in many cases, Christina acts as her own agent. In addition, Ms. Mendez started a plus size model support group where other curvy models go for support and encouragement.

Be sure to tune in Thursday at 10 p.m. (ET/PT) and watch it all unfold.

Don't forget to watch "Rip the Runway" March 4 at 8 p.m. (ET/PT).