In her poignant essay, “Being Plus-Sized Didn’t Diminish My Joy, But Embracing It Did,” Jenna Thompson highlights the liberating journey of self-acceptance. “Happiness isn’t contingent upon being thin. Plus-size does not equate to sorrow,” she shares, reflecting on her past obsession with maintaining an unrealistic body size. After abandoning her rigorous fitness routine, Jenna discovered a newfound joy in living life as “unapologetically plus-sized.” Since the essay’s release, she has made appearances on major platforms like Good Morning America and has been featured in publications such as The Huffington Post and the San Francisco Chronicle. We were eager to learn more about Jenna, a mother of five and a dedicated nurse, so we invited her for a candid Q&A session. Keep an eye out for more insights from Jenna on parenting in future posts.
Q&A with Jenna Thompson
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What’s a skill you aspire to master?
I want to learn how to play the guitar. My dad gifted me his old one for my 30th birthday, but I’m still struggling. I won’t give up, but let’s just say I’m far from proficient.
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What trip is on your bucket list?
My husband and I really need to visit Italy. It’s long overdue.
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Who deserves a thank-you note from you?
I owe a huge thank you to my high school art teacher, Lisa Hartman. Sadly, she passed away from cancer a few years back. Although I found her demanding at times, she instilled a sense of confidence in me that I carry to this day. She was the first person to see my potential.
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What were your Friday nights like at age 12?
I’d be at home trying on my aunt’s old formal dresses, daydreaming I was a star like Drew Barrymore or Jennifer Aniston. I’d wear oversized bras (with stuffing) while munching on Doritos and Ding Dongs.
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Who was your first mix tape for, and what songs did you include?
I can’t quite recall his name—maybe it was Jason—but I do remember including “I Just Called to Say I Love You” by Stevie Wonder and several hits from New Edition, like “Mr. Telephone Man” and “If It Isn’t Love.” My mixtape game improved a lot over the years!
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What childhood story do you wish would stop coming up at family gatherings?
For some inexplicable reason, everyone loves to recount the tale of when I accidentally got a jellybean stuck up my nose. I didn’t even let anyone know until it mysteriously appeared a few days later. Super embarrassing!
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What advice would you give your 25-year-old self?
Address your mental health struggles. Having bipolar disorder doesn’t mean you’ll follow in your mother’s footsteps. Seek treatment—it will drastically enhance your life. Don’t shy away from getting help.
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What’s your specialty in the kitchen?
When it comes to baking, I’m the cake queen. I can whip up a cake like nobody else.
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What’s your personal motto?
It varies, but I often remind myself, “Don’t forget to be AMAZING!” or the well-known, “Be the change you wish to see.” Thanks, Gandhi!
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Do you have a theme song?
James Taylor’s “Secret of Life” resonates with me: “Enjoy the passage of time.”
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What’s a movie that always lifts your spirits?
“Love Actually” will forever restore my faith in humanity.
This article originally appeared on March 11, 2005.
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In summary, Jenna Thompson’s reflections provide valuable insights into self-acceptance and personal growth, reminding us that happiness is not defined by our size. Through her journey, she encourages others to seek help and embrace their true selves.