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.
An update on Kate Middleton’s first announced engagement following surgery
Even though there are still many unanswered questions about Kate Middleton, not the least of which is what led to the “abdominal procedure” that will keep her out of commission until after Easter, there has been an update that should interest everyone who considers themselves to be a royal fan.
The Princess of Wales is scheduled to attend her first formal engagement following surgery on June 8, according to sources.
Hi there! Say that one week prior to the big event, on that date, Kate will review Trooping the Colour.
The Household Division’s official website has a statement that says, “Her Royal Highness reviewed Trooping the Colour.” The Princess of Wales is exactly the same as Trooping the Colour as seen by His Majesty the King, with the exception that when He is present, a few more mounted officers ride.
“The second of two formal Reviews will feature a parade of over 1400 soldiers from the Household Division and The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, along with 400 musicians from the Massed Bands,” the statement reads.
Kate’s scheduled return to royal duties on a set date may help soothe the fears of many who have interpreted the general dearth of information since the future Queen’s operation as a negative sign.
In recent weeks, there has been a lot of conjecture around the potential that Kate’s condition is worse than the Palace has disclosed. In an attempt to reassure the public that Kate was “doing well,” the Palace itself was compelled to release a statement restating its earlier assertions that all is OK with her recuperation.
Nevertheless, the general dearth of public knowledge has left a void where speculation frequently spreads like wildfire.
The fact that the Princess of Wales had not been spotted in person or on camera since Christmas did not assist the situation much. That is, until yesterday, when Kate was photographed sitting in a car outside of Windsor Castle with her mother, Carol Middleton.
With the photo, Kate was seen for the first time in seventy days. Even while the Royal Family has been trying to convince royal admirers over the past week that the Princess is only recovering on her own terms, away from the flashing of cameras, this has led to a new round of wild speculation.
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