A woman who has became a 'tag a mate' meme, has spoken out about the cruel impact it has had on her life.
Lizzie Velasquez, a motivational speaker and author, was born with Marfan syndrome, a rare congenital disease that prevents her from gaining body fat.
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The 27-year-old came across the picture of herself, with the caption: "Michael said he would meet me behind this tree for a bit of fun.
"He's running late, would someone please tag him and tell him I'm still waiting?"
Saddened she decided to share the meme herself to her 130,000 followers on Facebook, with a caption of her own.
She wrote: "I've seen a ton of memes like this all over Facebook recently. I'm writing this post not as someone who is a victim but as someone who is using their voice.
"Yes, it's very late at night as I type this but I do so as a reminder that the innocent people that are being put in these memes are probably up just as late scrolling through Facebook and feeling something that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy.
"No matter what we look like or what size we are, at the end of the day we are all human. I ask that you keep that in mind the next time you see a viral meme of a random stranger.
"At the time you might find it hilarious but the human in the photo is probably feeling the exact opposite. Spread love not hurtful words via a screen. Xoxo Lizzie."
Many commented to offer their support to Lizzie, including her mother, who wrote: "As Lizzie's mom this hurts beyond words. But I stand with you to say spread love PLEASE. Love you Lizzie!"
So I guess the lesson we can all take from this is: think before you meme.
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Featured image credit: Facebook / Lizzie Velasquez
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