A plus-sized winner of a Miss Alabama beauty contest, Sara Millikеn, has responded to online trolls who labeled her an “unhealthy embarrassment.” The 23-year-old was thrilled when she won the top prize in the National American Miss pageant, but her joy was short-lived as she faced a barrage of negative comments about her appearance.
“Even something that you type over a screen can have a lasting impression on people,” Millikеn told WKRG. “Even though I’m not at that point, it can lead people to do some very dark things to themselves.”
Millikеn’s response to the criticism highlights the impact of cyberbullying and the importance of kindness. Despite the negative comments, she remains determined to not let the harsh words hold her back as she prepares for the national final in Florida over Thanksgiving.
Among the cruel remarks, Blaine Tom Mieroughts wrote, “I thought it was a beauty pageant,” while Randy Hicks added, “Is that actually considered attractive in Alabama?” John Mason made a hurtful reference to the fast-food chain, saying, “This should have been (M)iss Jack in the Box winner.”
However, Millikеn also received support from many individuals. Tracie Stephens-Brooks praised her, saying, “To know is to love her. This young lady has a heart of gold and will give anyone in need a helping hand. A beautiful obese diva with style, sass, and a lot of class.” Samantha Thrash Duff expressed her pride, stating, “So proud of her! We watched her all weekend and prayed hard that she would come home with that title! She is an amazing, sweet young woman and is going to do great things!” David Junior added, “Great to finally not see some 100lb, blonde hair blue eyes who wants world peace win! Congrats to Alabama and this Queen!”
Millikеn’s victory was her third attempt at the contest, which aims to foster “positive self-image by enhancing natural beauty within.” She competed over Memorial Day Weekend, participating in interviews, volunteer work, and presentations. The pageant scores contestants based on “personality, confidence, and communication,” according to organizers.
The website for the contest states, “Braces, glasses, skin problems, varying heights, weights, and appearances are all a part of creating the special and unique individual that you are and that we want to celebrate.”
Although sh.ocked by the initial negative response, Millikеn has since received an outpouring of support from around the world, gaining 2,500 followers on Instagram and Facebook overnight.
She remains focused on spreading positivity. “I’ll be honest, it got to me for about five minutes,” she admitted. “Their words can hurt, even if it is online. I’ve always wanted to spread positivity, and this kind of put me in a position to do exactly that.”
Supporters have offered her everything from dresses to beauty products to help her in the next round of the competition. Millikеn emphasized the importance of kindness and noted that not everyone can easily shake off cyberbullying.
“No matter what your body looks likе, no matter where you come from, you can do anything you set your mind to,” Millikеn said following her victory. “I met so many amazing and accomplished women. That was definitely the best part.”
Hundreds of supporters have since flooded her inbox with offers of support, reinforcing the importance of community and positivity in the face of online negativity.
Turia Pitt and Michael Hoskin: A Love Story of Resilience and Inspiration
Turia Pitt and Michael Hoskin’s story is a powerful testament to the boundless strength of love and resilience. Six years ago, Turia, a former model, endured a life-changing event when she was caught in a devastating fire while competing in an ultramarathon in Australia. She suffered severe burns that affected 64% of her body, leaving her with only a slim chance of survival, according to doctors.
Amid this unimaginable tragedy, Michael, Turia’s boyfriend at the time, made an extraordinary decision. He left his job as a police officer to become her caregiver and unwavering pillar of support. Over the course of her recovery, Turia underwent 200 operations, lost seven fingers, and faced the daunting challenge of rebuilding her life during a two-year rehabilitation. In 2020, she courageously shared her story, recounting the harrowing moments when a 100km race in remote Western Australia turned into a fight for survival against flames.
During this arduous journey, Michael’s love and commitment never wavered. At a pivotal moment in Turia’s recovery, he gifted her a diamond ring he had purchased years earlier. In the idyllic setting of the Maldives, he proposed, symbolizing their enduring love and hope for the future.
Turia’s recovery required her to wear a mask for two years, a difficult yet necessary step in her healing process. Through it all, Michael provided constant reassurance, reminding her daily of her beauty and strength. In 2016, after seven years of challenges and triumphs that included countless hours in hospitals, the couple exchanged vows in a deeply emotional ceremony, solidifying their bond and gratitude for one another.
Reflecting on their love, Turia shared, “I never wanted to sleep next to my partner. Now I think how lucky I am to be able to sleep next to this beauty. He’s a nice guy, and I’m very happy to meet him. Every day I wake up next to Michael is a wonderful day.”
As they navigated the complexities of rebuilding their lives, Turia and Michael felt a shared longing to expand their family.
In 2017, Turia announced her pregnancy on Instagram, a moment of joy that captured the hearts of many. Despite being unable to run marathons during her pregnancy, she remained active and resilient. On December 7, 2017, the couple welcomed their first child, a baby boy named Hakawai, marking the start of a new chapter.
Their love story continued to grow with the birth of their second son, Rahiti Hoskin, on February 9, 2020.
Today, Turia and Michael are happily married, raising their children and cherishing the love that has guided them through life’s trials and triumphs.
Their journey is a remarkable reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the transformative power of love. By sharing their story, we celebrate hope, resilience, and the belief that no obstacle is insurmountable when love is at the heart of it all.
Leave a Reply