Stop assuming. Stop judging.

We received an email from a supporter and a reader* sharing her very eye-opening story. What she discloses to all of us is a very good reminder to bite our tongues when we have the urge to jokingly comment (and I'm not talking about compliments here) on someone's physical appearance, because gaining weight doesn't only come from overeating and laziness--like most people tend to think. 

*She wishes to remain anonymous.

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A few years ago, I was thin. I wore skimpy shorts, dresses, and skirts. I had self-confidence. Until one time, I went to the doctor to have my ovaries checked because my [monthly] period was irregular. There was even a time that my "red flag" wasn't up for a year! Back then, it was no big deal since my mom had the same issue. After several tests, it was confirmed. I have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It is one of the most common female endocrine disorders and is thought to be one of the leading causes of female subfertility. The principal features are obesity, anovulation (resulting in irregular menstruation) or amenorrhea, acne, and excessive amounts or effects of androgenic hormones. The symptoms and severity of the syndrome vary greatly among women. While the causes are unknown, insulin resistance, diabetes, and obesity are all strongly correlated with PCOS. Yes, I am sick. Yes, there’s a big chance that I won’t be able to have a baby.

And yes, I am gaining weight.

So everytime a person tells me, “Hoy! Tumataba ka!” I just keep quiet. I just think to myself, if you only know what’s going on with my life.

I am sad but at the same time, grateful because there are people like you girls of this blog who will understand me and help me to get my self-esteem back. When I started reading your blog, I felt good. I wanted to pole dance just like Danah, I want The Boudoir Dolls to snap a picture of me because I have never been in a photoshoot ever! And lastly, I want to be proud of my body and myself. ;)

Thank you guys!

This is just a reminder to not judge other people because you have no idea what’s really going on!

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"For the great majority of mankind are satisfied with appearance as though they were realities, and are often more influenced by the things that seem than by those that are."

Niccolo Machiavelli

Have a great Sunday, plumpies! ;)

Love your beautiful body,

Stacy