The internet can be a breeding ground for bullies and unhappy people who enjoy attacking strangers with hurtful words. Unfortunately, some individuals seem to derive pleasure from causing pain to others using technology. However, in this particular story, the victim was able to find her voice and confront those who tried to hurt her.
Jennifer Knapp Wilkinson was going about her usual shopping routine at her local Walmart when she lost her balance and fell. Despite struggling to catch herself on nearby shelving, Jennifer managed to regain her footing, thinking that she was alone in her mishap. However, little did she know that she had an unwanted audience. Instead of offering assistance or checking if she was okay, a stranger snapped a photo of her fall and shared it online.
Users from all over took to the post to mock Jennifer for her weight and for falling. Many responded with surprising anger, hurling insults and derogatory terms at a woman they knew nothing about. They attacked her for her weight, labeled her lazy, and found joy in her misfortune.
What these people didn’t realize is that Jennifer is a full-time mom with health issues and a passion for crocheting. They also didn’t know that Jennifer is not one to back down from a fight. While many would shy away from conflict when faced with a barrage of hate from unknown individuals, Jennifer decided to stand up for herself.
In her post, Jennifer explains, “The reason I am sharing this is because people think it is funny to laugh at people with disabilities.” She confronts the accusations of laziness by explaining her spinal condition, spondylolisthesis, which causes pain and weakness in her legs. The longer she stands, the more likely she is to fall – something she has grown accustomed to.
On that particular day, Jennifer was feeling particularly weak and in pain. Despite her mental health struggles, she still went grocery shopping for her family. While attempting to pick up a case of soda for her husband, she slipped and fell hard. She heard laughter nearby, but unfortunately, she has become accustomed to encountering rude people who make fun of her in public.
“You cannot see my disabilities, but they are there and they are real,” Jennifer states firmly. She also condemns the act of taking the photo without her consent, saying, “My main point in this is I did not choose to be photographed at a low point in my life.”
Jennifer continues to address the accusations of laziness and assumptions about her weight or physical impairment. Importantly, she reminds everyone that “obese people are treated as less than human and as something to ridicule.” Her message is simple: “I just want people to be aware that fat people are people too.”
In her heartfelt post, Jennifer concludes by stating that she is not seeking apologies or pity. Rather, she aims to encourage understanding and compassion. “I am a person, please treat me like one!”
We are truly impressed by Jennifer’s grace and compassion in the face of so much anger. The online world, oftentimes a negative place, becomes a little brighter when individuals like Jennifer stand up for themselves and others. What are your thoughts on this story? Let us know in the comments!
