Mahogany Geter, a 24-year-old aspiring model, was born with a rare condition that left her with a 100-lb leg. After a lifetime of facing difficulties, Geter’s life changed forever when she was offered a chance to model, starting her off on a journey of spreading the message of body positivity to others.
Bright Side found her story inspiring and a great example of how beauty can be found everywhere, and wanted to share Geter’s story of self-love with you.
She was born with a rare condition.
Mahogany Geter, a resident of Tennessee, was born with a rare condition that left her with a left leg that weighs 100 lb. The condition, known as lymphedema, can cause excess fluids to collect in the soft tissue of the body and lead to swelling. For Geter, her entire left side of the body is impacted by this, but only her leg is the most visible.
Geter was diagnosed with the condition right after she was born, and it made it extremely difficult for her to walk. “It drains my energy, of course, because it’s an extra 100 pounds,” she said. The condition makes her more susceptible to contracting fibrosis, and the only way to manage it is through physiotherapy and massages to drain the excess fluid in her leg.
She had a difficult time growing up.
The model talked about how she faced many difficulties growing up: “I’ve been through a very depressed state because you’re a little kid, and you have a bunch of grown adults staring at you.” She would receive many unwarranted comments from others and was teased throughout her childhood. “I will say it probably can affect you more mentally and emotionally,” she revealed.
“As a child, I never felt pretty. I felt ugly, like a freak of nature, and cried in private so many times,” said Geter. She had been suggested surgery by many doctors, but she turned it down every time, stating that in some other, more severe cases, surgery hadn’t completely gotten rid of the growth. Instead, she chose to accept herself as she was.
She began her modeling journey in 2017.
Geter’s life changed forever in 2017 when she was spotted by a photographer while she was working at Walmart. Initially thinking it was fake, the young woman eventually agreed to let the photographer take pictures of her. “I was like, ’I’m getting older now, maybe it’s time I start putting my full body out there,’ and hopefully me doing that can help somebody else,” she said.
This one opportunity catapulted Geter’s career as a model. Following this, she was featured in a viral YouTube video that amassed over 10 million views. Her presence on Instagram and other social media platforms has also increased. “Mainly, I’ve gotten a lot of positive responses, and the ones I like the most are that it helps people that also feel low about themselves,” she said.
She aims to help others embrace their unique bodies.
Despite her increased presence on the internet resulting in some Internet trolls, Geter has remained positive throughout, saying, “People have been so nice and supportive of me online. It isn’t all trolling and negativity.” She has remained consistent in spreading body positivity and encouraging others to be more comfortable in their bodies.
Geter is committed to her dream of becoming a model. “If I ever make it big, I want to buy my mother a house and take care of my family, then I’ll do everything I can to raise awareness of lymphedema to pay it back to everyone who has ever shown me kindness.” She continues to use her condition to inspire others to celebrate their differences as well.
Her journey has inspired many.
Although Geter’s journey has been hard, she has learned to accept herself and vows to spread this attitude to others. “For the longest, I felt so low about myself, but once I got older and with loads of support from the online lymphedema community and my mom who is my inspiration, I realized how beautiful I am. Not only looks, but as a person.”
What part of Mahogany Geter’s journey resonated with you the most? Do you have any advice for those that struggle to accept their bodies? Share it with us.
Preview photo credit lymph.goddess23 / Instagram, lymph.goddess23 / Instagram
”Is He Ok?” Tom Hanks Shocks Fans in New Look — Fans Are Worried
Tom Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, once again proved that they are one of Hollywood’s most iconic and solid couples as they attended a gala in Beverly Hills. Hanks radiated charm and Hollywood glamour, but it was a significant transformation in his look that drew a lot of attention.
The Women’s Cancer Research Fund hosted its prominent annual fundraiser, “An Unforgettable Evening,” at the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills.
Among the many celebrities who added their star power to the event were Tom Hanks, 67, and his wife, Rita Wilson, 67, who serve as honorary chairs.
Upon their arrival, the Forrest Gump actor commanded attention before the cameras, accompanied by his wife. He donned an impeccable black ensemble, featuring a crisp white shirt, a striking, black-patterned tie, and coordinating shoes.
Wilson stood beside her husband in a vibrant pinkish-red dress, featuring an off-the-shoulder design and a cinched waist.
Hanks showcased a fresh, short haircut, highlighting his salt-and-pepper hair, but what truly caught everyone’s attention was his mustache—a rare and striking look for him.
But many fans were worried about the star and thought that he didn’t look in the best shape. One person wondered, “Is he OK???” Another observed, “Tom looks a little beat up.” Someone else added, “He’s almost unrecognizable…she must be concerned!”
Another Hollywood icon generating buzz with his new appearance is Tom Cruise. Earlier this year, the star attended a gala event in London, where his look caused quite a stir.
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