This is my fleeting moment of notoriety. If you browse through platforms like People of Walmart or Reddit, you’re likely to come across a particular photo of me.
The most disheartening aspect of this image is the assumption that a plus-sized woman toppled over a shopping cart due to sheer laziness. In reality, I suffer from a spinal condition known as spondylolisthesis. This disorder occurs when one of the vertebrae slips out of alignment, predominantly affecting the lower back. While some individuals experience no symptoms, others endure varying degrees of back and leg pain. In my case, prolonged standing leads to numbness and weakness in my legs, which has resulted in falls.
Additionally, I struggle with obesity, which exacerbates my back issues. I’ve come to realize that my relationship with food has often been a coping mechanism for my mental health challenges. Daily, I battle my weight, and I’ve recently taken steps to join a gym, but the struggle continues.
This incident occurred several years ago, around 2011 or 2012, during a particularly difficult period for my mental health. On that day, I was in significant pain and weakness while grocery shopping for my family. As I reached for a case of soda for my husband, the cart tipped over. I noticed a brief flash and heard giggles from nearby young girls. Such reactions were nothing new to me, as I had grown accustomed to ridicule and disparaging comments.
Months later, I stumbled upon this photo circulating on a website mocking individuals at Walmart. It was disheartening to see the image attached to fabricated stories about the incident. Thankfully, my face wasn’t captured in the shot.
The purpose of sharing this is to highlight the tendency to mock those with invisible disabilities. My struggles may not be visible, but they are very real. The next time you encounter images making fun of others, remember that each person has their own battles that you know nothing about. Laughter at someone else’s expense is never just harmless fun.
My Health Journey
Here are a few images of me to confirm my identity in the aforementioned photo:
My spinal issues began with degenerative disc disease, which typically arises around the age of 50. In my situation, it started in my early twenties, long before my obesity developed. Following the degeneration of the disc, spondylolisthesis occurred. Both my parents experienced similar conditions and underwent back surgeries in their thirties, suggesting that my children may also be at risk of inheriting this spinal disease.
My weight issues are largely a result of an unhealthy American diet and my mental health conditions, including major depressive disorder, PTSD, and avoidant personality disorder. I have faced significant emotional trauma that has led to my reliance on food as a coping strategy.
I want to stress that I did not choose to be photographed during a low point in my life. The assumption that my weight is a result of laziness or a desire for disability benefits is misguided. Individuals with obesity often face dehumanization and ridicule. I simply wish for people to recognize that larger individuals are human beings deserving of respect.
It’s important to clarify that I’m not advocating for the acceptance of obesity as a norm. Obesity presents serious health risks and complications. Moreover, I don’t seek pity or sympathy; rather, I ask for compassion, understanding, and respect as a fellow human being. I am a person—please treat me accordingly.
This narrative first appeared on The Mighty.
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Summary
The author reflects on a viral photo that misrepresents her struggles with obesity and a spinal condition, emphasizing the importance of understanding and compassion toward individuals facing invisible disabilities, rather than mocking them.