The internet often provides a platform for bullies and unhappy individuals to lash out at strangers. Unfortunately, certain people continue to be common targets for this negativity.
In a troubling trend, many seem to derive satisfaction from hurting others online, and this story highlights that issue. However, the twist here is that the victim chose to confront her attackers.
Jennifer Knapp Wilkinson was shopping at her local grocery store when she lost her balance and fell while trying to grab a nearby shelf. Struggling to stabilize herself from her scooter, she managed to right herself, thinking she was alone.
Sadly, she soon discovered that wasn’t the case. Instead of offering assistance, a bystander took a photo of her fall and shared it online. This act prompted a wave of mockery from users worldwide, who cruelly ridiculed her for her weight and circumstances.
Instead of remaining silent, Jennifer decided to speak out. In her response, she explained: “The reason I’m sharing this is because people think it’s funny to laugh at people with disabilities”.
She clarified that her weight issues stem from a spinal condition called spondylolisthesis, which causes pain and weakness in her legs. Standing for extended periods increases her risk of falling, something she has unfortunately become accustomed to.
That day, despite feeling particularly weak and in pain, she ventured out to shop for her family. While reaching for a case of soda, she fell, and although she sensed people giggling nearby, she brushed it off, as she had grown used to rude remarks from strangers.
Jennifer emphasized: “You can’t see my disabilities, but they are there and they are real. The next time you see someone being mocked, remember you don’t know their struggles. It’s never just harmless fun”. She condemned the act of taking and sharing the photo without her consent, stating: “I did not choose to be photographed at a low point in my life”.
Despite facing ongoing accusations about her weight and assumptions regarding her health, Jennifer wants to remind everyone: “Obese people are treated as less than human, but we are people, too”.
In closing, she expressed that her intention is not to seek pity but to foster understanding and compassion. “I am a person, please treat me as such!” Jennifer’s bravery in standing up against bullying and her thoughtful message serve as a reminder that the online world can be dark, but those who advocate for themselves and others help illuminate it.
Baby once labeled ‘hideous’ grows into a stunning little girl
Every individual is beautiful in their own way, including newborns with their unique features.
In 2018, Angelica entered the world, bringing immense joy to her family. Her delicate facial features and a heart-shaped port-wine stain made her even more special. While her family embraced her beauty, not everyone appreciated the uniqueness of her birthmark.
Angelica’s mother, Marianna Bowering, shared that while their family adored her daughter just as she was, some strangers online felt entitled to make cruel comments about Angelica’s appearance.
“The worst comment I’ve received online was from someone asking if her face had been pressed onto a skillet, essentially saying her face looked grilled,” Marianna told The Mirror.
Marianna also recalled times when Angelica was labeled “hideous” or described as a “defect.” These remarks were deeply hurtful and added to the challenges the family faced. Despite the negativity, they remained determined to shield Angelica from the impact of such cruelty and to help her embrace her unique beauty.
To instill confidence and self-love in her daughter, Marianna took an extraordinary step. Inspired by Vascular Birthmark Awareness Day, which encourages participants to paint a heart on their cheek, she decided to replicate Angelica’s birthmark on her own face using makeup.
“I initially painted a heart as part of my makeup look, but then I thought, why not go all out and recreate Angelica’s port-wine stain?” Marianna shared with The Epoch Times.
However, not all reactions were positive. Remarks suggesting the mark would fade over time or that Angelica could conceal it with makeup as she grew older left Marianna heartbroken. These comments reminded her of society’s rigid standards of beauty and the pressure to conform.
Determined to counter this, Marianna and her family encouraged Angelica to embrace her individuality. On occasion, Marianna would even decorate Angelica’s birthmark with glitter to celebrate its beauty.
“Thankfully, tests have shown Angelica is completely healthy,” Marianna said, acknowledging that children with similar birthmarks can sometimes face health concerns like glaucoma. “We just need regular check-ups to monitor her health, particularly her eyes.”
Angelica is now thriving, surrounded by love and support that teaches her to appreciate her uniqueness. Her story is a reminder that beauty comes in many forms and that self-love is a powerful gift.
Isn’t Angelica a stunning young girl with a story that inspires?
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