As for the judgment of others…
Well, I’m far from fat, but according to at least one BMI measurement, I’m a bacon-cheeseburger away from obese! So, I think what matters most is how one feels about one’s self. And, Sarah, no matter what you look like, feel good that you are who you are, have survived what you have survived, and are loved by those around you.

Please let Sarah know that we’re all out here for her whenever she needs us… and that she’s absolutely right to take down her blog under these circumstances.

One of the hardest things for people who know they’re any sort of “role model” to do is stand up for themselves about BEING a role model. I don’t care if it’s Sarah getting pounded by the local “yur fat hurr hurr” Neanderthals or Nichelle Nichols having all her lines stolen by Shatner; it can be very hard to pull yourself out of the line of fire under such circumstances, no matter how necessary it is.

Please: Let her know we’re all thinking of her, and wishing her the best. Well, and that not every guy out here is a dyed-in-the-wool idiot.:)

Yours in embarassment for the stupidity evidenced by his gender,

The head-shaking,

Wanderer

You don’t know me, but I’ve lurked around your blog these past few months. I know you don’t like to hear that you’re an inspiration, but I would be lying if I left that out. You inspire me not just because you’re a triathlete… also because you’re happy, not despite but BECAUSE of your body. And one day I too will be happy, not despite but BECAUSE of my body.

I also want to commend you for making your blog private for awhile, because it’s important to recognize your boundaries and do what’s best for your own well-being. Sometimes it’s all too easy to forget about ourselves when we’re caught up with public education and activism!

So please take your time, and know that whenever you’re ready to come back, we’ll be waiting for you :)

Take care, Sarah!

-Rosalie