Lizzie Velásquez
Lizzie Velásquez
=====================
Full Name and Common Aliases
---------------------------------
Lizette "Lizzie" Elizabeth Velásquez is an American motivational speaker, author, and anti-bullying activist.
Birth and Death Dates
---------------------------
Born: March 13, 1989 (still active)
No death date mentioned as Lizzie Velasquez is still alive.
Nationality and Profession(s)
--------------------------------
American
Motivational Speaker
Author
Anti-Bullying Activist
Early Life and Background
-----------------------------
Lizzie Velásquez was born in Austin, Texas, on March 13, 1989. She was diagnosed with a rare condition called Neonatal Progeroid Syndrome (NPS) at the age of three months. This condition causes accelerated aging, premature wrinkles, and weight gain. Due to her physical appearance, she faced intense bullying throughout her school years.
Growing up, Lizzie struggled to find acceptance and self-worth due to constant criticism from peers and even strangers. She began to question her own identity and felt isolated from others. However, with the support of her family and a newfound sense of determination, she transformed her life's narrative into one of empowerment.
Major Accomplishments
---------------------------
Lizzie Velásquez became an advocate for anti-bullying and self-acceptance after her experiences with bullying.
She has written several books, including "Be Yourself: Letting Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embracing What Makes You, You".
* Lizzie is a motivational speaker who has given numerous talks worldwide, spreading messages of hope, self-love, and acceptance.
Notable Works or Actions
-----------------------------
Lizzie's most notable work is her transformation from a victim of bullying to an advocate for anti-bullying. Her book "What I Wish I'd Known When I Was Losing My Hair" highlights the challenges she faced during her teenage years.
Additionally, Lizzie has appeared on various TV shows and documentaries, including ABC's "20/20", sharing her story with millions of viewers. She also founded LizziesPlate.com, a platform offering resources for eating disorders and body image issues.
Impact and Legacy
------------------------
Lizzie Velásquez's life has significantly impacted the world, particularly in the realms of self-acceptance, anti-bullying, and mental health awareness. Her courage to confront her own struggles and share them with others has inspired countless people worldwide.
Her work serves as a reminder that everyone faces challenges, but it's how we respond to these situations that truly matters. By embracing our uniqueness and advocating for acceptance, Lizzie Velásquez shows us the power of resilience and determination in overcoming adversity.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
---------------------------------------------------
Lizzie Velásquez is widely quoted and remembered for her inspiring life story, which serves as a testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome obstacles. Her unwavering dedication to spreading messages of hope and self-love has made a lasting impact on millions worldwide.
Her ability to transform adversity into opportunities for growth and advocacy has inspired countless individuals to confront their own struggles with confidence and resilience. As a motivational speaker, author, and anti-bullying activist, Lizzie Velásquez continues to be a beacon of light in the fight against bullying and body shaming.
Quotes by Lizzie Velásquez
People have asked me if I had a miracle or a chance to change the way I look, I honestly know I would never do that.
I was actually so small that my baby clothes were actually doll clothes from Toys 'R' Us because that's all that would fit me!
Young girls and boys from all around the world let me know their personal story, and I can feel their smile through their words. To be able to look at those comments and just get encouragement from them and know that I am living the life that I'm supposed to is what keeps me going every day.
I credit a lot of learning to love myself to my faith, my family and my friends. Everyone needs someone you can look to for constant support, who you never have to impress, to share your happy and sad days.
Having to look a certain way, or be a certain weight, comes from magazines, movies, the media.
But after the TED talk went viral, I called Sara Hirsh Bordo, who had produced TEDxAustinWomen, to ask her advice. She told me she'd like to do a documentary, and that we should work together on anti-bullying efforts.
I've met so many people who have come up to tell me their personal stories, and a lot of them express the same feelings that I have, especially reading things online.