I Fear Physical Activity in Public
October 4th, 2006
Story submitted by Abbey Macnair, Canada, 19 years old
Posted with permission via Hiddenfeet posting rules &Legal Disclaimer.
Dear Hiddenfeet,
My name is Abbey Macnair and am 19 years old. I am from a small town in Canada. I’m pretty amazed I am even writing you but I know my fear is unreasonable. I have a wonderful and large family like you. I have three brothers but I’m in the middle with two younger brothers. The last time I purchased a bra, they fitted me at a 36E.“My favorite thing to do in the world is to play soccer with my brothers.”
My older brother plays semi pro soccer and he tells me all the time I should play for my high school team. He says I have a talent for the sport and could teach his team-mates a thing or two.
Because of my stupid breasts that get in the way I hate doing any sort of physical activity in public. I could never handle people looking at me running up and down the soccer filed. PE class has been a nightmare growing up. I’ll usually do anything I can to avoid running in front of anyone such as getting mysteriously ill on running days, volunteer to grade papers for other teachers that allow me to miss gym class. I’m so embarrassed. If I’m unable to find an excuse, I feel like my heart is going to explode out of my chest.
It was difficult for me to email you my picture but this website has plenty of helpful information for girls. I think we can all find strength from each other.
I am seeing a therapist now and doing much better with her help. She gives your website a big thumbs up! I hope my story may be of some assistance. I found great comfort in reading the other two Hiddenfeet stories. Thanks for all you do!
Love,
Abbey Macnair
Stay strong Abbey! You are not alone. You have taken a big step in sharing your picture and story with Sara and us on Hiddenfeet.
I wish you the best!
Hannah from Dortmund Germany
Many mothers forget how difficult life might be for their daughters if they didn’t develop the same chest size when they were growing up. Lots of girls have mothers with smaller chests at my school.
I don’t think the moms are forgetting about their daughters feelings on purpose. They just don’t have the perspective needed to help their child cope with social and wardrobe issues.
I hope Abbey was able to get a strong sense of self-worth from her mother, but from the tone of the article it seems that a therapist was able to help her more. Then again, there are so many things in life (my fear of heights for example) that are beyond parental control. Therapy can help for some.