Woman Suffers Skin Disease, Wins Internet Abuse on Reddit

[Turk]

A WOMAN who suffers a rare skin condition has won the internet after copping ridicule on Reddit.

Not only does Carly Findlay suffer from a rare skin condition, Ichthyosis, she has two forms; a mix of Netherton syndrome and Erythroderma.

Symptoms range from chronic skin inflammation, itchiness, dehydration and stunted growth.

It also causes skin to shed "at an insane rate".

The condition affects 10-20 people per million.

But when a Reddit user Google Image searched "champagne fridge" they stumbled upon a picture of Carly holding a glass of bubbles.

"I thought WTF," the user wrote, and posted the image of Carly online.

A Reddit user posted this image of Carly Findlay in the ...

A Reddit user posted this image of Carly Findlay in the WTF section. Source: Supplied

The internet soon took over.

"What does your vagina look like?"

"WTF is that? Looks like something that was partially digested by my dog."

"She looks like a glazed donut."

Findlay's worst nightmare had become reality. She was the subject of intense scrutiny and unreasonable, uneducated diagnoses from "Dr. Google".

So, she decided to fight back.

Carly's brave Reddi...

Carlys brave Reddit post Source: Supplied

"I knew the day would come that someone would create a Reddit thread about me, using my photo, having a laugh at my appearance," she posted in response .

"For years, that fear was why I didn't share photos of me online. But now, after gaining confidence and support through years of blogging, I couldn't care whether they call me a lobster or silly putty.

"The love I have around me and success I have had through telling my own story to break down stigma like these Reddit threads is stronger than any of those words.

"Yes I have Ichthyosis. Yes that picture is me. Don't fear it and don't criticise it. I am proud of the way I look, what I have achieved and for telling my story.

"FYI: I have two forms of Ichthyosis - a mix of Netherton's syndrome and erythroderma. My skin is shiny because I use paraffin. My body is less red than my face as it's not exposed to the elements, but it is generally more painful. Ichthyosis is survivable - I have lived a very full life.

The original user then gave this backhanded apology.

Carly fights back: Reddit style.

Carly fights back: Reddit style. Source: Supplied

"I'm reading all this and I apologise!

"I was looking for "champagne fridge" on Google Images. When I saw your picture, I thought "WTF!" and further: "allergic reaction", also your hair looks a bit on fire so I put it here.

"Hopefully you see it as a good promotion for your blog and chapeau [hats off] to you for being awesome!"

She was then joined by a score of supporters.

"You, madam, are the strongest motherf****r I have ever HEARD of, let alone met. If you are ever in Boston, I would be honoured to buy you a beer."

In a later blog post about her experience, she described "smashing" her own fears, "fighting back with awesome" and thanked those that went in to bat for her.

"I hope others out there are strong enough like me to deal with it," she told news.com.au.

"It's pretty nasty online."

Carly posted this image on her blog in response.

Carly posted this image on her blog in response. Source: Supplied

Earlier this year a Melbourne taxi company apologised to Findlay after a taxi driver told her "you smell" and asked "what's on your face?".

"It's the right outcome," Ms Findlay told news.com.au, adding the company's apology was genuine. "It might help the wider industry."

http://www.news.com.au/technology/online/carly-findlay-suffers-skin-condition-wins-internet-after-copping-abuse-on-internet-site-reddit/story-fnjwnhzf-1226787312639

[janedoe]

I wouldn't want to wish this sort of condition on anyone, but if at all anyone deserves it it's insensitive sickos like these. Carly seems to be an awesome person though, very brave when it comes to dealing with both the disease and the shameful reactions to it.

[locoJoe]

People often see things on the internet they havent come across before in real life, or maybe even seen on TV. They say stupid things, some because they think its fake, some because they are mean and some because they are just plain stupid. Im sure (I hope) most of the comments would fall under the "think its fake" heading, and actually didnt meen to hurt someone. That being said it doesnt help the lady with the disease, nor her feelings. People should be more slow to do (say) things like what was said about her. They should weigh the "laughs they may get" against the "possibility that what they are seeing is true and what they say might hurt". Anyways a prayer for her and all who suffer in this world.

[janedoe]

They should weigh the "laughs they may get" against the "possibility that what they are seeing is true and what they say might hurt".

The unfortunate reality is that the (perceived) anonymity of the internet gives many people the license to talk trash, whereas IRL (in real life) they'd probably pi** their pants or be ashamed if they had to say the same things to the other person face to face in a public location. "Think before you type and submit/send" is equally or perhaps in today's age more important than "think before you speak".

[OrioNeXus]

they are turning humour into humiliations Goddamn reddit users' popularity contest for nothing :thumbsdown:

[kn_andre]

Some people Do not know the Pain and Anguish that People with Certain Health Conditions go Through - Unless when they are the Ones who are Suffering that Condition or Someone Close to them that is Sick !! The World has Slowly Become a Place where Anything and Everything is Considered fair game - Free to be Poked Fun at and Laughed at ... Pity ... I sincerely Wish this Carly Findlay More Strength and Endurance in her Daily Life .. Cheers ..