This is my moment in the spotlight! If you browse platforms like People of Walmart or Reddit, you might stumble upon a photo of me that has made its rounds online.
The most frustrating aspect of this image is the assumption that a plus-sized woman tipped over a shopping cart simply because she was too lazy to get out and grab a case of soda. The reality is far more complex.
I suffer from a spinal condition known as spondylolisthesis, where one of my vertebrae slips out of place. This can happen at any point along the spine, but it’s most common in the lower back. Some people experience no symptoms, while others deal with varying levels of back and leg pain. For me, standing for too long leads to numbness and weakness in my legs, and I’ve even had falls as a result of this issue.
In addition to my spinal condition, I also struggle with obesity. Over time, I realized that I used food as a coping mechanism for my mental health challenges. I face a daily battle with my weight and have recently started hitting the gym, but it’s still a work in progress.
This incident took place several years ago, around 2011 to 2012. I was going through a tough time mentally and physically that day while grocery shopping for my family. I decided to use a cart to ease my burden. When I reached for a case of soda for my husband, the cart tipped over. I caught a glimpse of a flash of light and heard giggles from nearby young girls. Given my history of being mocked, I brushed it off as just another instance of people making fun of me.
Months later, I stumbled upon this photo being circulated on a website that poked fun at Walmart shoppers. I’ve seen it attached to various false narratives about that day. The one silver lining is that my face wasn’t visible in the shot.
I share this because it’s disheartening to see people laugh at others with disabilities. While my struggles might not be visible, they’re very real. The next time you come across images that mock individuals, remember that you have no idea what they might be enduring daily. It’s not just harmless fun when it comes at the expense of someone else.
Here are a couple of pictures of me to confirm that I am indeed the person in that viral image.
My spinal issues began with degenerative disc disease, which typically surfaces around the age of 50. For me, however, it started in my early 20s, long before obesity became a factor. After the disc deteriorates, spondylolisthesis can develop. Both of my parents experienced this condition and underwent surgery in their early 30s, which raises concerns that my children might face similar issues.
My obesity stems from my American diet and my mental health battles. I live with major depressive disorder, PTSD, and avoidant personality disorder, stemming from various emotional traumas. Food became my way of coping with these challenges.
I want to emphasize that I didn’t choose to be photographed at one of my lowest points. The assumption that my weight is a result of laziness or a desire to be on disability is simply not true. Obesity often leads to people being dehumanized and ridiculed. It’s essential to remember that individuals of all sizes deserve kindness and respect.
I’m not asking for acceptance of obesity, as it is indeed a significant health concern linked to numerous illnesses. Nor do I want pity. What I desire is compassion, understanding, and the acknowledgment that I am a person deserving of dignity. Please treat me as such!
This post previously appeared on one of our other blogs, which you can explore here for more insights on personal experiences and challenges.
To sum it up, it’s vital to approach every individual with empathy, as we never fully know the battles they are facing.