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.
Paparazzi photos show what Goldie Hawn, 77, really looks like – and everyone’s saying the same thing
Goldie Hawn is a name almost anyone will recognize. The actress has been a mainstay in the American media for decades because of her immensely successful career.
Behind the scenes, Hawn and her actor boyfriend Kurt Russell have been together for four decades (they celebrated their 40th anniversary on Valentine’s Day this year), and they’ve remained just as committed to one another as they were back in the very beginning.
Given the various allures and distractions life in the spotlight can bring, it’s a wonder that neither ever seems to have put a foot wrong.
What makes Kurt and Goldie’s relationship so very special – and, we might add, so real in the eyes of the public – is their steadfast dedication to each other. They don’t wield their romance as a tool to heighten their celebrity presence, nor have they ever been embroiled in scandals or publicity stunts to hijack the locomotive PR train.
Instead, theirs is a partnership that appears to be a throw-back to a by-gone era, an inspiring and very agreeable union that reminds us all what true love is really about.
As well as sharing adoration for one another, they also defend each other when scrutinized by the media. In fact, Russell defended Hawn when she was recently called cruel names by internet trolls, and when some pretty unflattering paparazzi photos of her emerged online.
One photo in particular shows her in Aspen, Colorado, rocking ugg boots, quilted pants, and a black turtleneck. At 77, she looks fantastic, but most people couldn’t help but comment on how old she now looks – cruelly saying she’s “gone too far” and no longer looks like herself.
Hawn has fought against agism in Hollywood by simply ignoring the comments, embracing getting older and not letting the teasing faze her. Russell is also incredibly supportive of his partner, with Hawn telling People magazine that Russell told her before a dinner date: “You’re unbelievable. I cannot believe how [beautiful] you look.”
After 40 years, the couple is still as in love as they were at the start, and their love story just goes to show the power of love. Despite facing harsh public opinions about their appearances, the couple doesn’t let this affect them.
Hawn especially continues to exude grace and confidence as she embraces the natural process of aging.
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