People treat me differently since I gained weight. It’s an absolutely hilarious and sometimes sad as well as scary experience. It’s like I should be someone to feel sorry for, and I have the feeling that it makes me less interesting to people. Since I have been thin most of my life I know the difference. I find it horrifying that we treat overweight people in the way that we do. It’s like we’re some kind of pariah at times.

Don’t get me wrong, there are upsides, like less women are jealous of me and I’m enjoying a new relationship with men, in which it’s easier to simply be friends. But generally, I find that many people treat me with some kind of “oh poor you” attitude, which is quite disrespectful.

I’m still the same person. I’m a strong, independent woman with loads to give. I gained weight mainly due to medical issues, which are over, so I am loosing weight now. I do look forward to dancing freely again, and to be treated with respect. I’m not talking about the medical issues to excuse myself, just to remind people that there might be other reasons than for example lack of discipline for some to be overweight.

Here below are two photos of me, the thin version is from ca 8 years ago. It’s not a very long time, but it feels like another life. I have to fight and prove myself a lot to get the same kind of respect from people as back then. People seem to think that I have to live a problematic life due to my overweight. That is far from true. I live a great life, right now! I have the same energy on stage as back then, I can mesmerize a room full of people with my stories and fairy tales – when I get the chance.

When you look at the photos, you see the same smile, the same look in the eyes, the same person. Remember that next time you meet an overweight individual. It’s a human being with strength, dreams and power, just like you!