My husband has deformed feet from hiking in combat boots (he's a combat veteran). I find them very cute and unique. I admire people who have done something difficult and skillfull in their lives and the sacrifices they make. I definitely haven't done much of that in my life.
A_Little_Me Don't worry! It's not the combat boots themselves. They'd literally hike 20-30 miles a day, with skirmishes and operations in between. Sometimes they'd be out in the field so long that their socks would wear thin and stuff like that. I love my Doc Marten's!
Jamie how do you even survive being talented in so many ways!! We love you so much, I'm so sorry about all the corruption you had to go through 😖❤ that coach sounds awful.
I honestly feel sick from the way that coach treated you 😖 thank you for telling us about this when I'm sure it was really hard for you. ❤❤❤❤ You're amazing 😁 xxx
Please, people, if you see this video and you or someone you know is going through a similar situation, remember that it is NOT okay for a coach to act like that. It doesn't matter how good their results are. IT IS NOT OKAY. Please tell someone -- your parents, another parent, another coach or teacher -- so they can help you.
Thank you so much for trusting us with your story. I know its painful but the more stories people hear will hopefully de-stigmatise abuse~ it really means a lot to me to see big UA-camrs talking about abuse- both Physical, and emotional, as well as the impacts these leave via mental health/eating disorders~
The Anorexia hit me very hard. Seeing someone who develops Anorexia, can be distressing and we don't know how to help that person, and so we feel awkward. Having had Anorexia 4 years ago, it pains me to see that certain sports, can perpetuate a certain 'ideal' into an individual, (Not always. But it can.) I hope that girl you skated with is ok now. And I hope that you are ok too. xxx
Safa Nanji Anorexia is a mental health illness that, perhaps due to difficult trauma, or perhaps to stress in your own life, the anorexic makes you obsess over your body, how it looks and feels, and think that you should lose lots of weight through starving yourself and exercising your body until it physically aches. (Anorexia is different for everyone, but the main points are obsessively counting calories and food choices, trying to eat as little as possible.)
Safa Nanji that's honestly ok. If you would like to find out more information, there are lots of websites and people who are sharing their stories on UA-cam if you would like to hear a first person account of how it feels like.
I feel the same way. I actually left a similar comment separately. I struggled with anorexia for a lot of my life, and haven't had major issues for around 10 years but it still affects a lot of my decisions today -- except now, I have to make choices to avoid reactivating those unhealthy thoughts in my head. I may not have worded that correctly but since you're in a similar situation, I imagine you understand what I'm trying to say :) I also hope she was okay, and I hope Jamie is okay too, and I also hope you're okay, Ellie Berry!
As someone who has been through sport abuse, (mine being soccer), I feel you. But you know what? We’re survivors. And we have done so many good and impressive things ever since we left the unfair situations. We’ll miss it. We’ll miss the good and sometimes we’ll miss the bad. But we can never loose sight of what is really important, our happiness. Maybe the sport will come back to our life, but because we have experience we know how to make it enjoyable. Go forth, conquer the world, use those bad times to make new good ones for yourself. I admire you greatly ❤️❤️❤️
Sorry you had to go through all of that. Figure skating is my favorite thing to do everyday, but when you are going through all of that I get it’s not fun! Thank you for sharing you experience with us. Love your channel and your personality!! Happy you are living a great life now! 😘😊
I completely agree about your "coaches always know best" point. I had the same thing happen to me when I went from competition to recreational dancing and when I dropped out of speech at college. My coaches wanted me to be a national champion. I just wanted to have fun, and my grades were more important than winning.
"I'm proud of those scars, it means I work hard." I admire people like you, strong people who can talk about their struggles and the pain they went through, while still being themselves, happy and optimistic and wonderful.
Thank you for being so open and honest about this. I’ve been the victim of sexual abuse and it’s very true that one often feels at fault and guilty. But you’ve become such a wonderful person even in the few years I’ve spent watching you. You’ve grown, and learned, and have such thick skin now. You’re absolutely incredible, and I’m so proud of you. Thank you again for sharing!
I was a professional figure skater and experienced all the abuse you talked about. My coach was and still is very famous in Southern California. I was homeschooled so I could skate full-time and I relate skaters very much to the movie Black Swan. We are treated as innocent children, and couldn’t relate to the “normal” kids our age. As I got older and my body slowly was breaking down, constant knee problems I couldn’t quit because at that time I was one of my coaches “favorites” and was winning competitions. But as soon as that changed I was thrown away like trash. Now I am much older, in my 40’s and suffer from residual injuries. But even today, coaches everywhere abuse their skaters to make them better. It’s sad and although it makes you better because you work harder out of fear it isn’t right. Thank you for being so brave and sharing your story that I’m sure you realize is just one of many but it can help others and yours is very important. Every experience bad or good you can never forget. My only advice is any type of abuse is not your fault nor because of anything you did but because the other person is sick. I don’t know if you got help in counseling or not but it’s a great help! And remember you have so much opportunity in front of you don’t let that terrible man keep you from achieving great things!
When I saw the words 'Physical Abuse', my heart dropped. I look up to you so much Jamie, and the fact that someone would treat you, or anyone that way is terrible. I'm glad you continue to enjoy the sport, and even more so on your own terms. Lots of love.❤️
my heart is aching while hearing these horrid stories... skating is the passion of my life and i'm so sorry your skating took such a turn. BUT you found your life passion! painting! and you are INCREDIBLE. i've been subscribed to your channel for a few years now and i come back to this video from time to time.
Jamie I am honestly so proud of you for sharing this💖I know it must have been extremely hard to tell us all of this but at the same time you are shedding light on this because its helping others to know they can talk to someone💖so much love and support💖💖💖
thanks for sharing your story! im also an ex-pro skater turned artist, hehe. I honestly loved skating to death, almost literally. when my dad told me I was a waste of time and money after getting runners-up for the National Team when I was twelve, I became suicidal. got worse after he forced me to quit. figure skating is such a toxic sport underneath all the lululemon sweats and flashy rhinestone dresses. hearing how you had to deal with that coach's abuse is so mind boggling to me since I personally viewed my old coach as a second mother. could never imagine her doing anything like that to any of her students. so glad to hear that skating was something that you enjoyed and not felt burdened with :)
If you google skaters’ or dancers’ feet I’m sure you’ll get plenty of images that give you the general idea of what she means XD (even if they’re not her exact feet)
You are so brave for sharing! I am a gymnastics coach and have left a gym because similar things were happening, I tried to get the head coach fired but I was the only one who really saw the treatment as emotional abuse and was willing to do something. The more people talk about it the more people will realize what is ok and what isn't. You are helping figure skaters and other athletes everywhere by sharing your story so that it doesn't happen to them. Thank you :)
I can hardly stand socks that press my toes together, I buy shoes a half size large so my toes have wiggle room. Figure skates sound like my personal hell 😂
Jamie.. this is heartbreaking! I’m so proud of you for how far you’ve come! You’re such a wonderful and inspiring person and good gosh, well done for talking about and being so open with us!! We love youuuuuu✨💕
I’m so glad you trust us enough to open up in a video. I feel so sorry for everything that you have gone through. No one should ever have to go through that. I’m glad you realize now that none of that was your fault. You are so strong. And I hope you continue to live life for yourself because you know what’s best for yourself and you are the only one that can determine that. I love the fact that you love Disney and animation and it makes you the cute, lovable person that you are. ❤️
This was heartbreaking. Thank you for having the strength to share your story. I strive to live a life of peace. That story about your abusive coach... makes me want to abandon that.
I’m glad you decided to open up, I’m sure it wasn’t easy. It’s terrible that you had to go through some of these things just because of the wrongs of other people but I am happy that you can now enjoy it. Love
Thanks for sharing, Jamie. I’m glad that you still had a lot of good times even with all of the awful things involved. I have danced for about 15 years and definitely understand some of the pressures involved. I came to love dance even more when I stopped competing and just did it for fun. Love you :)
Aww, I'm sorry you had to go through those things. I was a competitive ballroom dancer as a kid and into my teens, and I went through similar things. It's really frustrating how something so fun can subject you to such terrible things. I'm glad it didn't ruin your fun completely though! Thanks for sharing!
I'm glad you've shared this story. I'm sorry about your bad experience! It was a little painful to watch, as it reminded me a lot of my sport experience. I had good times, but so much bad stuff and drama! I hope you talking about it was a little therapeutic!
I had to grow up super fast too and my boyfriend always has to sit me down and tell me to slow down because I can now. The over indulging in “childhood” things like Disney is totally me too. I’m such a kid at heart these days because I wasn’t able to be when I actually was one. You’re such a sweet person who has come such a long way. Now is the time to slow down and enjoy life and the things you want to do at your own pace. 💕Whether people would like to be a part of that or not - your happiness is all that matters.
jamie, thank you so much for sharing your story; it couldn't have been easy. i'm so sorry that you had such a poor experience whilst skating, but i'm so glad you came out of it retaining your love for skating. you've come quite far since then
I found you about 4 years ago because my friend showed me your awesome painting. It's been SO amazing to see you grow throughout these years, I'm so glad I found you & I'm endlessly thankful for everything that you do.
This video is so good! You are so brave for talking about these experiences. Some of these are horrible stories (especially the one about the coach), were so sad to hear about, but I'm glad you liked the skating xx
I can truly understand all the abuse you've suffered. Since I have a long history of being abused. Jamie, you are a very strong woman and I am very proud of you for telling your story. You never know who is watching this and telling your story will and can help others in huge ways. I tell my story too, not only to heal myself but to give hope to others who think there is'nt any. And truth be told if it was not for doing research online trying to figure out what is going on. Reading blogs/videos from other emotional abuse survivors, has helped me become stronger. And learn how to deal with these bullies. Plus praying and reading my bible helps a ton. Listening to praise and worship music and doing things that make me feel good about myself. And defeating being in victim mod which I was in for years. And getting out and socializing as well. And having a mentor who is leading and guiding me as I deal with these bullies. And people showing me that I am not a trouble maker. And learning these bullies are mad at me because I have happiness, confidence, and empathy in my life and they do not. Jamie, you have grown so much and I can tell you are getting stronger every day. I can hear the confidence in your voice, bless you dear one. And always know you are the strongest person you know. 💚☺
When you said “I wanted to do it for fun” that was how I felt when pursuing Art in college. It was what I loved but the moment the stress of your drawing had to be perfect it made it seem stressful. I still love drawing but sometimes I won’t start a drawing because I’m scared to fail....it’s crazy how a moment in your life can change how your brain works.
Thank you so much for sharing. As a former figure skater (who was, albeit, nowhere near your level) I now realise the impact of some of these things on my peers and myself which I never would have picked up on before. Thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart, for trusting us with your story. I do hope your experiences will provoke change so that others will only have a positive experience in the sport. 💙💚💜
I took ice skating lessons for three years, I know it's no much but I got exposed to that world andI started hating it. The teachers had their favorites who were the ones who were *mean* to the others. Everyone hated everyone and made bad comments. But I still love skating!
Former figure skater here. I know people who had such a positive life in that world, but I and a few other people I know saw the darker side of it. Thanks for sharing your story.
I’m really glad you feel comfortable about sharing this with us. Figure skating always fascinates me and although I know I’m not going to be the person to get into it. Despite all of this I hope you can occasionally skate for fun sometime.
I know this was probably a hard video to make. Honestly, it makes me love and support you even more. Please never stop being yourself and trying your best and being the honest and kind-hearted person you are. You don't deserve such horrid treatment. And as a child, I can only imagine the trauma you've endured. Thank you for opening up. You really didn't have to. In any case, you're opening up a dialogue for the things many figure skaters endure. I must admit I never realized how hard figure skating was. Moreover, I never realized how difficult of a sport it could be on the mind. I'm glad you've been able to learn and grow as a person from your experiences. In and of itself, I feel like this was a rather inspiring video -- not just to myself -- but to a great many others.
I'm watching this again in 2022. If you go to your first video then go to the most recent videos in 2022, there's a disturbing difference. It's very hard to watch someone wasting away.
You're so brave for sharing this, I adore your paintings and video's and to see this, I'm so happy with all the choices you managed to make throughout your life. You seem so happy now and I'm very convinced that you are. You produce awesome work and are an amazing human being. Keep up being you, and everything you love c:
So sorry you went through all that! It takes a lot of courage to talk about your personal life and experiences on camera and put it on the internet! I salute you :D
Jamie, I think you have a heart of courage for sharing this video with everyone. I know it's going to really help a lot of people who have gone or are going through a similar situation. Thank you!:)
I frikkin' love your personality and how wise you are and how wonderful and fantastic and extremely HUMAN you are. Thank you so much for sharing your life here on UA-cam ❤
I love skating but my private lessons are over £20 for 30 minutes so i got a job and now my parents and I go halves on my lessons. But I'm trying to save up for some Edea Ice Fly's and the MK Gold Star Revolutions blades. but it's so worth it
If you get Edeas I would go for the pianos. I have I lot of friend who have the ice flys and the said that they hurt a lot more. I personally have Jackson’s 5200s. Anyway good luck!!
Thanks for making this video! I also skated for 10 yrs, though only competitively for 3. I think that people don't realize how hard, and often abusive, the sport can be. I feel very fortunate that I had an amazing experience with skating and my coaches were amazing and I never really felt any of the negatives from the sport, but I know skaters that did and I met coaches that were really not good people. My experience actually led me to write an anthropology paper on skating and the effects it can on skater's bodies and minds. Thank you again for the video
Thanks for bringing this up! Some of what you talked about echoed some of the things that I went through as a competitive horseback rider growing up. Definitely good stuff, but also a lot of unnecessarily cruel or intense things too, especially for kids
I love your top in this video and appreciate you being so open and honest with this content. You’re such a well rounded and beautiful being and to see you open up and try to shed light on a topic that not many may know about is awesome.
Thank you so much for talking about this side of skating, I went through something similar with one of my coaches and to hear someone else know those feelings makes me feel less alone.Figure skating is an amazing sport and I agree with everything you said about it being an outlet, it just has some terrible people in it. All the love to you!
i’m so sorry you had to endure such things, especially at such a young age. i hope that figure skating will stay a positive outlet for you ! don’t let horrible things ruin something you love :)
As a skater myself, I relate to a lot of this. I love skating, but like you it is not my main focus in my life. I want to be a doctor, so school is important to me. Skating is my outlet. I don't do competitions. I just like setting goals for myself, like landing my axel before graduation. My axel was a big hurdle because I have had injuries and surgeries, so landing it was a big deal for me. I also feel like skating has taught me so many lessons about dedication, work ethic, and good sportsmanship. I feel grateful to have had a great skating community where everyone supports and motivates each other. I also got lucky with my coach. When I did compete, she always wanted to make sure I was doing it because I was having fun and I loved the sport. And she supports my decision to not compete and just skate for myself. This was a great video. And I totally relate to the feet thing. My feet are MESSED up lol.
Jamie. Every video I watch of yours I am reminded of how much of a strong person you are. I am so sorry that you had to deal with all of this, but am so happy to see that you prevailed and came out on top. You can do anything. Keep it up, beautiful.
Thank you for sharing this with us. I'm glad that you felt comfortable enough with us (as your audience) to share this part of your past. You should be really proud of this and your figure skating. Also, completely unrelated but your hair looks fabulous in this!! c:
I was not ready for that at all we know so little yet so much. The story went from wow, to that makes sense, to am happy you got away from that, to am sorry you had to go through that, to this doesn't change how awesome you are. You never really know what someone else is going through and how life is for them and learning something new can tell you soooooo much about about a person. So just because someone isn't going through what you are going through doesn't mean they don't have bad days to. I love your channel and your artwork and your videos and personality really does help me relax when things start to overwhelm me and I just wanted to say thank you for that.
It's so strong for you to share this experience. So many people don't really understand the pressures of being in competitive sports like that, and they glamorize it. I've been watching your videos for years now and I'm proud of you, I feel like you're my friend and I'm happy you got out of that bad situation.
Thank you so much for talking about this! ^^ It helps so much the timider of us when braver speakers like you discuss topics these, especially emotional and physical abuse. Stay strong friends
I am so proud of you for talking about this. Because nobody sees the background of abuse in the community. I have an amazing friend who has lasting trauma from their childhood of trying to do high level jumps and getting constantly yelled at. I have a friend who went through the anorexia. Judges are very traditional, and I was always downgraded based on my age (I was an older skater for my level) and appearance. I hated competing because I never felt like I got judged fairly. But I had a supportive community. There was only one coach there who was the scary coach, and I was never at the level she would teach, so I rarely interacted with her. But some of her older students were nasty. There were enough other coaches and skaters who were lovely that that's what I remember from skating. The fun and encouragement, rather than the intimidation and attacks on my body from the judges. Jamie, thank you for talking about this. Because it's so important and so brave of you. I send you all my love.
Thank you for sharing your experience and trusting us with it; you are the sweetest, strongest artist I've have the pleasure to see in my life and I'm happy you still enjoy figure skating after all of your experiences with it. You're an inspiration 💕
Thank you for being so open regarding the abuse you suffered - you didnt have to share this story but you did so that other people could feel that they werent alone. I think it important that we talk openly (as much as possible - I know there are limitations) in order to highlight abuse even within much loved hobbies and skills. Hopefully it will make other people feel that they have a voice too. X
Thank you for sharing your story! I took a beginning figure skating class in college that I loved. It's sad that something so beautiful, freeing, and joyful can also be so damaging depending on the circumstances and those involved. When people speak out about the things that usually remain in the dark, it helps others be more aware of them, and hopefully eventually leads to less of it happening.
I grew up as a figure skater, I can complete relate to some of this (particularly with the competition exhaustion, and how coaches can be). It's must nicer to enjoy figure skating as a nice hobby, rather than a stressful sport :)
Thank you so much for sharing this. My cousin is in ballet and she has an eating disorder which was brought on because of it. Getting stories like your’s out there helps people like her get help.
I am so sorry you went through this. He's a walking SafeSport violation. Fees should be upfront, not billed later. It's hard to change coaches without being blackballed. I've had a rough time in this sport and I started an an adult!
It sounds like you have gotten your life together. Just know that talking about it can help start the healing. I appreciate you sharing and will continue to follow your channel because I know that you are an extraordinary young person and are getting stronger and stronger.
Thank you for telling this!! Figure skating was so abusive to me and it’s so sad because it is still one of my biggest passions. I started it competitively when I was 4 and ended it when I was 11. Everything what you said happened to me. The coaches where horrible, they abused us. I was getting mobbed really bad because I wasn’t thin enough for them (even the parents and coaches). I got a really really bad eating disorder now because of what happened then. Sadly everyone I know personally who is or was a figure skater has an eating disorder and no one is really talking about it... Also its kinda glorified tbh. When I was skating girls made mean comments when I eated bread or rice. The only thing what I was allowed to eat was vegetables and fruits (but mostly vegetables). I want to start figure skating again but sadly the only skating place is still full of those girls and parents who mobbed me so bad when I was young. I’m looking forward when I move and start there slowly figure skating but never competitive again.
Thankyou so much for sharing. You didn't deserve to go through any of that and I sure hope that abusive Coach has been fired. I am so happy that you are happy and empowered and living life on your terms! Well done Girl! Never dim your light for any asshole!
Wow this story made me realize how good my skating life is. i tend to complain alot about skating but now i realize how good i have it. I have a great relationship with my coaches and even with the coaches who dont teach me they are all just so great and wonderful. I have so many friends at the rink and they make me feel happy. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I will truly cherish what i have
Thank you for sharing that part of your life! It’s wonderful to hear about those things cause we get to know you more. Second. Please bring back the “byes, byes, byes”!! That was my favorite!! 💜💜💜
I love figure skating so much. I’ve wanted to do it since I was six years old, but I couldn’t do it back then because I was struggling with some medical issues during that time. But now that I’ve got them under controlled after eighteen years, I’m finally doing it. Just last week I’ve moved up to basic three, and I’m so excited! I’m taking a break right now because I’ve been casted in a musical production at a community theatre near where I live. But after it’s over I’ll get back on the ice and start learning basic three elements. Thank you so much for this video, I really loved hearing about your figure skating experiences. Thank you so much.
Thank you for your insight. I feel like this can be applied to many other situations. It is so horrible to hear about what that coach did to you.. I am glad that you now have such a great appreciation for the things you love. ❤
I never realized that the reason my feet are shaped so weirdly might be because I did figure skating when I was younger... oh my god you just explained a huge thing in my life....
Thank you for making this video! I'm not a figure skater and I've never really been in a competitive sport but I've dealt with similar situations. I had to grow up really fast because of some things and now I really imbrace "childish" things like cartoons and things with really light colors because I can enjoy them. No one really gets it and I get made fun of for it a lot because I'm the only adult my friend's know with a pastel bedroom and a collection of disney movies. It always makes me happy to see your videos because I love your art but it's also a really nice feeling to be able to relate to someone.
As a figure skater myself i totally see where you are coming from. My feet have been through pain, but thankfully i havent dealt with any of the drama my club has handled. I've had horrible couches who would say awful things and i would often pretend to be sick just to avoid my lessions, but who thankfully never physical abused me. Now that i'm older i'm still not a great skater, I have never learned an axel, but i did land my loop recently which felt amzing, my new couch is closer to my own age and she feel more like a freind. Skating was never my whole life thought, school was number 1 for me. I agree with everything you said, figure skating is tough but fun and i would never give it up.
Thank you for being brave enough to speak out about something so painful. Perhaps it will encourage someone else who is in a difficult position to do the same thing. Sending love and hugs
I was the same way- I was good at academics but terrible at socializing, and basketball was my outlet. I barely play anymore even though I wanted to be in the Paralympics, but I realized that the culture I was in (not necessarily the whole culture, just my experience) has not always been great and negatively affected me a lot. Thank you for making this video because it’s reminded me of things I forgot and why I’ve made decisions that I did. I’m sorry you had to go through the tough aspects but I’m glad you’re doing well!
We love you so much and just know that we are here supporting you.I love your amazing new and talent and I generally just admire you as human being.Honestly it the world would be a better place if it were filled with more people like you.All I want to say is thank you for being strong and brave and trusting us enough to tell the other side of the story in figure skating.
Sometimes these things have to happen to get you to where you need to be. I have gone through so much stuff myself and now I’m at my happy spot. I’m so glad your happy now! Love you ❤️
I really enjoyed this video! At the edn when you talked about all the drama, I think that can be said about anything people do. When I was in high school there was drama in band, theater, journalism, anything I was involved in, there was drama. Even now, as an art major, there is drama in my class. There is even drama in places that many people, including me, try to combat it. I'm so sorr about what you've been through but I'm so happy that you now have a positive out look on it.
My darling Jamie - that was so brave of you sharing this information with the world - you’ve been through a lot and it made you the person you are today - God Bless you and just remember you are wonderful
That coach sounds very creepy. I really hope he’s not coaching anymore.
My husband has deformed feet from hiking in combat boots (he's a combat veteran). I find them very cute and unique. I admire people who have done something difficult and skillfull in their lives and the sacrifices they make. I definitely haven't done much of that in my life.
A_Little_Me Don't worry! It's not the combat boots themselves. They'd literally hike 20-30 miles a day, with skirmishes and operations in between. Sometimes they'd be out in the field so long that their socks would wear thin and stuff like that. I love my Doc Marten's!
Rebecca M Thank you :) We all make sacrifices in some way! They're just normal people doing a job.
HER OUTFIT IS REALLY CUTE IM CRYING
Whalenie yasssd i just wanna know where its from !!!!
Jamie how do you even survive being talented in so many ways!! We love you so much, I'm so sorry about all the corruption you had to go through 😖❤ that coach sounds awful.
I honestly feel sick from the way that coach treated you 😖 thank you for telling us about this when I'm sure it was really hard for you. ❤❤❤❤ You're amazing 😁 xxx
Zoe Ellen 〈3 that's so sweet to say to her!
Please, people, if you see this video and you or someone you know is going through a similar situation, remember that it is NOT okay for a coach to act like that. It doesn't matter how good their results are. IT IS NOT OKAY.
Please tell someone -- your parents, another parent, another coach or teacher -- so they can help you.
Or even the police if the people in your circle aren't listening to you, that kind of abuse of power is never acceptable
Thank you so much for trusting us with your story. I know its painful but the more stories people hear will hopefully de-stigmatise abuse~
it really means a lot to me to see big UA-camrs talking about abuse- both Physical, and emotional, as well as the impacts these leave via mental health/eating disorders~
The Anorexia hit me very hard. Seeing someone who develops Anorexia, can be distressing and we don't know how to help that person, and so we feel awkward. Having had Anorexia 4 years ago, it pains me to see that certain sports, can perpetuate a certain 'ideal' into an individual, (Not always. But it can.) I hope that girl you skated with is ok now. And I hope that you are ok too. xxx
Ellie Berry what is anorexia???? Is it an eating disorder????????
Safa Nanji Anorexia is a mental health illness that, perhaps due to difficult trauma, or perhaps to stress in your own life, the anorexic makes you obsess over your body, how it looks and feels, and think that you should lose lots of weight through starving yourself and exercising your body until it physically aches. (Anorexia is different for everyone, but the main points are obsessively counting calories and food choices, trying to eat as little as possible.)
Ellie Berry omg that's so sad! Thanks
Safa Nanji that's honestly ok. If you would like to find out more information, there are lots of websites and people who are sharing their stories on UA-cam if you would like to hear a first person account of how it feels like.
I feel the same way. I actually left a similar comment separately. I struggled with anorexia for a lot of my life, and haven't had major issues for around 10 years but it still affects a lot of my decisions today -- except now, I have to make choices to avoid reactivating those unhealthy thoughts in my head. I may not have worded that correctly but since you're in a similar situation, I imagine you understand what I'm trying to say :) I also hope she was okay, and I hope Jamie is okay too, and I also hope you're okay, Ellie Berry!
As someone who has been through sport abuse, (mine being soccer), I feel you. But you know what? We’re survivors. And we have done so many good and impressive things ever since we left the unfair situations. We’ll miss it. We’ll miss the good and sometimes we’ll miss the bad. But we can never loose sight of what is really important, our happiness. Maybe the sport will come back to our life, but because we have experience we know how to make it enjoyable. Go forth, conquer the world, use those bad times to make new good ones for yourself. I admire you greatly ❤️❤️❤️
Sorry you had to go through all of that. Figure skating is my favorite thing to do everyday, but when you are going through all of that I get it’s not fun! Thank you for sharing you experience with us. Love your channel and your personality!! Happy you are living a great life now! 😘😊
Eye Katie oh hi Katie 💖
Katie~ Meh favorite UA-camr :D
Katie you are so sweet!
I completely agree about your "coaches always know best" point. I had the same thing happen to me when I went from competition to recreational dancing and when I dropped out of speech at college. My coaches wanted me to be a national champion. I just wanted to have fun, and my grades were more important than winning.
I’m so glad you were able to get yourself out of that abusive situation
Agreed! its inspiring :]
"I'm proud of those scars, it means I work hard."
I admire people like you, strong people who can talk about their struggles and the pain they went through, while still being themselves, happy and optimistic and wonderful.
Can we just talk about what a beautiful person she is, inside and out!! ❤
Gracie Dreams She’s such a beautiful and inspirational lady 💕💜
I see you everywhere! From BananaJamana to Doodle Date 😂
Me or Gracie Dreams? 😂👌🏻
Thank you for being so open and honest about this. I’ve been the victim of sexual abuse and it’s very true that one often feels at fault and guilty. But you’ve become such a wonderful person even in the few years I’ve spent watching you. You’ve grown, and learned, and have such thick skin now. You’re absolutely incredible, and I’m so proud of you. Thank you again for sharing!
This was such an insightful video, there's actually so many similarities to dancing life too, so I totally get you!
I was a professional figure skater and experienced all the abuse you talked about. My coach was and still is very famous in Southern California. I was homeschooled so I could skate full-time and I relate skaters very much to the movie Black Swan. We are treated as innocent children, and couldn’t relate to the “normal” kids our age. As I got older and my body slowly was breaking down, constant knee problems I couldn’t quit because at that time I was one of my coaches “favorites” and was winning competitions. But as soon as that changed I was thrown away like trash. Now I am much older, in my 40’s and suffer from residual injuries. But even today, coaches everywhere abuse their skaters to make them better. It’s sad and although it makes you better because you work harder out of fear it isn’t right.
Thank you for being so brave and sharing your story that I’m sure you realize is just one of many but it can help others and yours is very important. Every experience bad or good you can never forget. My only advice is any type of abuse is not your fault nor because of anything you did but because the other person is sick. I don’t know if you got help in counseling or not but it’s a great help! And remember you have so much opportunity in front of you don’t let that terrible man keep you from achieving great things!
When I saw the words 'Physical Abuse', my heart dropped. I look up to you so much Jamie, and the fact that someone would treat you, or anyone that way is terrible. I'm glad you continue to enjoy the sport, and even more so on your own terms. Lots of love.❤️
my heart is aching while hearing these horrid stories... skating is the passion of my life and i'm so sorry your skating took such a turn. BUT you found your life passion! painting! and you are INCREDIBLE.
i've been subscribed to your channel for a few years now and i come back to this video from time to time.
Jamie I am honestly so proud of you for sharing this💖I know it must have been extremely hard to tell us all of this but at the same time you are shedding light on this because its helping others to know they can talk to someone💖so much love and support💖💖💖
I wish you would have shown us some, you sound like you were amazing at it, it would have been nice to see :) great message to everyone.
thanks for sharing your story! im also an ex-pro skater turned artist, hehe. I honestly loved skating to death, almost literally. when my dad told me I was a waste of time and money after getting runners-up for the National Team when I was twelve, I became suicidal. got worse after he forced me to quit.
figure skating is such a toxic sport underneath all the lululemon sweats and flashy rhinestone dresses. hearing how you had to deal with that coach's abuse is so mind boggling to me since I personally viewed my old coach as a second mother. could never imagine her doing anything like that to any of her students. so glad to hear that skating was something that you enjoyed and not felt burdened with :)
Little bit curious about your feet now. Sorry
I think her boots were just not right for her because my boots are comfortable and I do a lot of tricks which can have a lot of impact
If you google skaters’ or dancers’ feet I’m sure you’ll get plenty of images that give you the general idea of what she means XD (even if they’re not her exact feet)
I think out of respect for her wishes (and out of her respect for the lot of us), it would be best not to ask about them.
My heart is breaking listening to this (may or may not be crying)
Me too, I just want to hug her
You are so brave for sharing! I am a gymnastics coach and have left a gym because similar things were happening, I tried to get the head coach fired but I was the only one who really saw the treatment as emotional abuse and was willing to do something. The more people talk about it the more people will realize what is ok and what isn't. You are helping figure skaters and other athletes everywhere by sharing your story so that it doesn't happen to them. Thank you :)
I can hardly stand socks that press my toes together, I buy shoes a half size large so my toes have wiggle room. Figure skates sound like my personal hell 😂
Kristen wakefiej SAME! 😂
I don’t have a problem with the shoes being to little but omg my ankles are so sensitive! I always have to adjust my skaters because it begins to hurt
you should try pointé shoes 😂
I was gonna say don't go en pointé 😂
@@bookmilla8616 Yeah. Been there.
Jamie.. this is heartbreaking! I’m so proud of you for how far you’ve come! You’re such a wonderful and inspiring person and good gosh, well done for talking about and being so open with us!!
We love youuuuuu✨💕
#BringBackTheByesByesByes
stay don't stray
I’m so glad you trust us enough to open up in a video. I feel so sorry for everything that you have gone through. No one should ever have to go through that. I’m glad you realize now that none of that was your fault. You are so strong. And I hope you continue to live life for yourself because you know what’s best for yourself and you are the only one that can determine that. I love the fact that you love Disney and animation and it makes you the cute, lovable person that you are. ❤️
This was heartbreaking. Thank you for having the strength to share your story.
I strive to live a life of peace. That story about your abusive coach... makes me want to abandon that.
I want to give you the biggest warmest hug ever, I'm so sorry you had to go through such a horrible situation
I’m glad you decided to open up, I’m sure it wasn’t easy. It’s terrible that you had to go through some of these things just because of the wrongs of other people but I am happy that you can now enjoy it.
Love
Thanks for sharing, Jamie. I’m glad that you still had a lot of good times even with all of the awful things involved. I have danced for about 15 years and definitely understand some of the pressures involved. I came to love dance even more when I stopped competing and just did it for fun. Love you :)
Aww, I'm sorry you had to go through those things.
I was a competitive ballroom dancer as a kid and into my teens, and I went through similar things. It's really frustrating how something so fun can subject you to such terrible things.
I'm glad it didn't ruin your fun completely though!
Thanks for sharing!
I'm sorry you had a bad time about the skating but I'm glad you had good times
I'm glad you've shared this story. I'm sorry about your bad experience! It was a little painful to watch, as it reminded me a lot of my sport experience. I had good times, but so much bad stuff and drama! I hope you talking about it was a little therapeutic!
I had to grow up super fast too and my boyfriend always has to sit me down and tell me to slow down because I can now. The over indulging in “childhood” things like Disney is totally me too. I’m such a kid at heart these days because I wasn’t able to be when I actually was one. You’re such a sweet person who has come such a long way. Now is the time to slow down and enjoy life and the things you want to do at your own pace. 💕Whether people would like to be a part of that or not - your happiness is all that matters.
jamie, thank you so much for sharing your story; it couldn't have been easy. i'm so sorry that you had such a poor experience whilst skating, but i'm so glad you came out of it retaining your love for skating. you've come quite far since then
I found you about 4 years ago because my friend showed me your awesome painting. It's been SO amazing to see you grow throughout these years, I'm so glad I found you & I'm endlessly thankful for everything that you do.
Thank you so much for sharing your story Jamie! We’re so proud of how far you’ve come ❤️❤️❤️
This video is so good! You are so brave for talking about these experiences. Some of these are horrible stories (especially the one about the coach), were so sad to hear about, but I'm glad you liked the skating xx
"I'm proud of those scars, it means I've worked for them" that is such a beautiful quote ❤️
I can truly understand all the abuse you've suffered. Since I have a long history of being abused.
Jamie, you are a very strong woman and I am very proud of you for telling your story. You never know who is watching this and telling your story will and can help others in huge ways.
I tell my story too, not only to heal myself but to give hope to others who think there is'nt any. And truth be told if it was not for doing research online trying to figure out what is going on. Reading blogs/videos from other emotional abuse survivors, has helped me become stronger. And learn how to deal with these bullies.
Plus praying and reading my bible helps a ton. Listening to praise and worship music and doing things that make me feel good about myself. And defeating being in victim mod which I was in for years. And getting out and socializing as well. And having a mentor who is leading and guiding me as I deal with these bullies. And people showing me that I am not a trouble maker.
And learning these bullies are mad at me because I have happiness, confidence, and empathy in my life and they do not.
Jamie, you have grown so much and I can tell you are getting stronger every day. I can hear the confidence in your voice, bless you dear one. And always know you are the strongest person you know. 💚☺
When you said “I wanted to do it for fun” that was how I felt when pursuing Art in college. It was what I loved but the moment the stress of your drawing had to be perfect it made it seem stressful. I still love drawing but sometimes I won’t start a drawing because I’m scared to fail....it’s crazy how a moment in your life can change how your brain works.
Thank you so much for sharing. As a former figure skater (who was, albeit, nowhere near your level) I now realise the impact of some of these things on my peers and myself which I never would have picked up on before. Thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart, for trusting us with your story. I do hope your experiences will provoke change so that others will only have a positive experience in the sport. 💙💚💜
I took ice skating lessons for three years, I know it's no much but I got exposed to that world andI started hating it. The teachers had their favorites who were the ones who were *mean* to the others. Everyone hated everyone and made bad comments. But I still love skating!
Former figure skater here. I know people who had such a positive life in that world, but I and a few other people I know saw the darker side of it. Thanks for sharing your story.
I’m really glad you feel comfortable about sharing this with us. Figure skating always fascinates me and although I know I’m not going to be the person to get into it.
Despite all of this I hope you can occasionally skate for fun sometime.
I know this was probably a hard video to make. Honestly, it makes me love and support you even more. Please never stop being yourself and trying your best and being the honest and kind-hearted person you are. You don't deserve such horrid treatment. And as a child, I can only imagine the trauma you've endured. Thank you for opening up. You really didn't have to. In any case, you're opening up a dialogue for the things many figure skaters endure. I must admit I never realized how hard figure skating was. Moreover, I never realized how difficult of a sport it could be on the mind. I'm glad you've been able to learn and grow as a person from your experiences. In and of itself, I feel like this was a rather inspiring video -- not just to myself -- but to a great many others.
Jamie you're such an inspiration
❤
I'm watching this again in 2022. If you go to your first video then go to the most recent videos in 2022, there's a disturbing difference. It's very hard to watch someone wasting away.
I can relate almost everything from this to my dance experience. I’m sorry you had to deal with this too! You’re not alone!
You're so brave for sharing this, I adore your paintings and video's and to see this, I'm so happy with all the choices you managed to make throughout your life. You seem so happy now and I'm very convinced that you are. You produce awesome work and are an amazing human being. Keep up being you, and everything you love c:
So sorry you went through all that! It takes a lot of courage to talk about your personal life and experiences on camera and put it on the internet! I salute you :D
Jamie, I think you have a heart of courage for sharing this video with everyone. I know it's going to really help a lot of people who have gone or are going through a similar situation. Thank you!:)
I frikkin' love your personality and how wise you are and how wonderful and fantastic and extremely HUMAN you are. Thank you so much for sharing your life here on UA-cam ❤
I love skating but my private lessons are over £20 for 30 minutes so i got a job and now my parents and I go halves on my lessons. But I'm trying to save up for some Edea Ice Fly's and the MK Gold Star Revolutions blades. but it's so worth it
If you get Edeas I would go for the pianos. I have I lot of friend who have the ice flys and the said that they hurt a lot more. I personally have Jackson’s 5200s. Anyway good luck!!
Thanks for making this video! I also skated for 10 yrs, though only competitively for 3. I think that people don't realize how hard, and often abusive, the sport can be. I feel very fortunate that I had an amazing experience with skating and my coaches were amazing and I never really felt any of the negatives from the sport, but I know skaters that did and I met coaches that were really not good people. My experience actually led me to write an anthropology paper on skating and the effects it can on skater's bodies and minds. Thank you again for the video
Thanks for bringing this up! Some of what you talked about echoed some of the things that I went through as a competitive horseback rider growing up. Definitely good stuff, but also a lot of unnecessarily cruel or intense things too, especially for kids
I love your top in this video and appreciate you being so open and honest with this content. You’re such a well rounded and beautiful being and to see you open up and try to shed light on a topic that not many may know about is awesome.
Thank you so much for talking about this side of skating, I went through something similar with one of my coaches and to hear someone else know those feelings makes me feel less alone.Figure skating is an amazing sport and I agree with everything you said about it being an outlet, it just has some terrible people in it. All the love to you!
i’m so sorry you had to endure such things, especially at such a young age. i hope that figure skating will stay a positive outlet for you ! don’t let horrible things ruin something you love :)
As a skater myself, I relate to a lot of this. I love skating, but like you it is not my main focus in my life. I want to be a doctor, so school is important to me. Skating is my outlet. I don't do competitions. I just like setting goals for myself, like landing my axel before graduation. My axel was a big hurdle because I have had injuries and surgeries, so landing it was a big deal for me. I also feel like skating has taught me so many lessons about dedication, work ethic, and good sportsmanship. I feel grateful to have had a great skating community where everyone supports and motivates each other. I also got lucky with my coach. When I did compete, she always wanted to make sure I was doing it because I was having fun and I loved the sport. And she supports my decision to not compete and just skate for myself. This was a great video.
And I totally relate to the feet thing. My feet are MESSED up lol.
Jamie. Every video I watch of yours I am reminded of how much of a strong person you are. I am so sorry that you had to deal with all of this, but am so happy to see that you prevailed and came out on top. You can do anything. Keep it up, beautiful.
she is such a gentle soul. it breaks my heart how sweet and kind she is.
Thank you for sharing this with us. I'm glad that you felt comfortable enough with us (as your audience) to share this part of your past. You should be really proud of this and your figure skating. Also, completely unrelated but your hair looks fabulous in this!! c:
I'm so sorry you had to go through so much, but well done! You came out on the other side as a still-wonderful person❤
I was not ready for that at all we know so little yet so much.
The story went from wow,
to that makes sense,
to am happy you got away from that,
to am sorry you had to go through that,
to this doesn't change how awesome you are.
You never really know what someone else is going through and how life is for them and learning something new can tell you soooooo much about about a person. So just because someone isn't going through what you are going through doesn't mean they don't have bad days to. I love your channel and your artwork and your videos and personality really does help me relax when things start to overwhelm me and I just wanted to say thank you for that.
Jamie, you're picking up a British accent and as a Brit I love it. 10:15 you say "lot" differently xx
It's so strong for you to share this experience. So many people don't really understand the pressures of being in competitive sports like that, and they glamorize it. I've been watching your videos for years now and I'm proud of you, I feel like you're my friend and I'm happy you got out of that bad situation.
Thank you so much for talking about this! ^^ It helps so much the timider of us when braver speakers like you discuss topics these, especially emotional and physical abuse. Stay strong friends
I'm so sorry you had to go through this
I am so proud of you for talking about this. Because nobody sees the background of abuse in the community. I have an amazing friend who has lasting trauma from their childhood of trying to do high level jumps and getting constantly yelled at. I have a friend who went through the anorexia. Judges are very traditional, and I was always downgraded based on my age (I was an older skater for my level) and appearance. I hated competing because I never felt like I got judged fairly.
But I had a supportive community. There was only one coach there who was the scary coach, and I was never at the level she would teach, so I rarely interacted with her. But some of her older students were nasty. There were enough other coaches and skaters who were lovely that that's what I remember from skating. The fun and encouragement, rather than the intimidation and attacks on my body from the judges.
Jamie, thank you for talking about this. Because it's so important and so brave of you. I send you all my love.
I like these emotionally vulnerable videos, i find them relatable but also uplifting cuz they always end positively
Thank you for sharing your experience and trusting us with it; you are the sweetest, strongest artist I've have the pleasure to see in my life and I'm happy you still enjoy figure skating after all of your experiences with it. You're an inspiration 💕
Thank you for being so open regarding the abuse you suffered - you didnt have to share this story but you did so that other people could feel that they werent alone. I think it important that we talk openly (as much as possible - I know there are limitations) in order to highlight abuse even within much loved hobbies and skills. Hopefully it will make other people feel that they have a voice too. X
Thank you for sharing your story! I took a beginning figure skating class in college that I loved. It's sad that something so beautiful, freeing, and joyful can also be so damaging depending on the circumstances and those involved. When people speak out about the things that usually remain in the dark, it helps others be more aware of them, and hopefully eventually leads to less of it happening.
I grew up as a figure skater, I can complete relate to some of this (particularly with the competition exhaustion, and how coaches can be). It's must nicer to enjoy figure skating as a nice hobby, rather than a stressful sport :)
I'm so sorry this happened to you. It's incredible how strong you are today! Really love watching your videos.
Thank you so much for sharing this. My cousin is in ballet and she has an eating disorder which was brought on because of it. Getting stories like your’s out there helps people like her get help.
I am so sorry you went through this. He's a walking SafeSport violation. Fees should be upfront, not billed later. It's hard to change coaches without being blackballed. I've had a rough time in this sport and I started an an adult!
It sounds like you have gotten your life together. Just know that talking about it can help start the healing. I appreciate you sharing and will continue to follow your channel because I know that you are an extraordinary young person and are getting stronger and stronger.
Thank you for telling this!! Figure skating was so abusive to me and it’s so sad because it is still one of my biggest passions. I started it competitively when I was 4 and ended it when I was 11. Everything what you said happened to me. The coaches where horrible, they abused us. I was getting mobbed really bad because I wasn’t thin enough for them (even the parents and coaches). I got a really really bad eating disorder now because of what happened then. Sadly everyone I know personally who is or was a figure skater has an eating disorder and no one is really talking about it... Also its kinda glorified tbh. When I was skating girls made mean comments when I eated bread or rice. The only thing what I was allowed to eat was vegetables and fruits (but mostly vegetables). I want to start figure skating again but sadly the only skating place is still full of those girls and parents who mobbed me so bad when I was young. I’m looking forward when I move and start there slowly figure skating but never competitive again.
Thankyou so much for sharing. You didn't deserve to go through any of that and I sure hope that abusive Coach has been fired. I am so happy that you are happy and empowered and living life on your terms! Well done Girl! Never dim your light for any asshole!
Wow this story made me realize how good my skating life is. i tend to complain alot about skating but now i realize how good i have it. I have a great relationship with my coaches and even with the coaches who dont teach me they are all just so great and wonderful. I have so many friends at the rink and they make me feel happy. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I will truly cherish what i have
Thank you for sharing that part of your life!
It’s wonderful to hear about those things cause we get to know you more.
Second. Please bring back the “byes, byes, byes”!! That was my favorite!! 💜💜💜
You are absolutely brilliant and brave. Thank you for sharing your story. I know it's hard. 💜💜💜
I love figure skating so much. I’ve wanted to do it since I was six years old, but I couldn’t do it back then because I was struggling with some medical issues during that time. But now that I’ve got them under controlled after eighteen years, I’m finally doing it. Just last week I’ve moved up to basic three, and I’m so excited! I’m taking a break right now because I’ve been casted in a musical production at a community theatre near where I live. But after it’s over I’ll get back on the ice and start learning basic three elements. Thank you so much for this video, I really loved hearing about your figure skating experiences. Thank you so much.
Thank you for your insight. I feel like this can be applied to many other situations. It is so horrible to hear about what that coach did to you.. I am glad that you now have such a great appreciation for the things you love. ❤
You've survived so much, your a beautiful and strong young lady
I never realized that the reason my feet are shaped so weirdly might be because I did figure skating when I was younger... oh my god you just explained a huge thing in my life....
Damn i’m so sorry about all the bad things you’ve been through. I’m glad you kept going. You’re very talented Jamie✨✨💐
Thank you for making this video! I'm not a figure skater and I've never really been in a competitive sport but I've dealt with similar situations. I had to grow up really fast because of some things and now I really imbrace "childish" things like cartoons and things with really light colors because I can enjoy them. No one really gets it and I get made fun of for it a lot because I'm the only adult my friend's know with a pastel bedroom and a collection of disney movies. It always makes me happy to see your videos because I love your art but it's also a really nice feeling to be able to relate to someone.
I’m sorry you had to go through those negative aspects of what you love to do... you are so strong, and an amazing person, I love you 😊
As a figure skater myself i totally see where you are coming from. My feet have been through pain, but thankfully i havent dealt with any of the drama my club has handled. I've had horrible couches who would say awful things and i would often pretend to be sick just to avoid my lessions, but who thankfully never physical abused me. Now that i'm older i'm still not a great skater, I have never learned an axel, but i did land my loop recently which felt amzing, my new couch is closer to my own age and she feel more like a freind. Skating was never my whole life thought, school was number 1 for me. I agree with everything you said, figure skating is tough but fun and i would never give it up.
Thank you for being brave enough to speak out about something so painful. Perhaps it will encourage someone else who is in a difficult position to do the same thing. Sending love and hugs
I was the same way- I was good at academics but terrible at socializing, and basketball was my outlet. I barely play anymore even though I wanted to be in the Paralympics, but I realized that the culture I was in (not necessarily the whole culture, just my experience) has not always been great and negatively affected me a lot. Thank you for making this video because it’s reminded me of things I forgot and why I’ve made decisions that I did. I’m sorry you had to go through the tough aspects but I’m glad you’re doing well!
We love you so much and just know that we are here supporting you.I love your amazing new and talent and I generally just admire you as human being.Honestly it the world would be a better place if it were filled with more people like you.All I want to say is thank you for being strong and brave and trusting us enough to tell the other side of the story in figure skating.
Sometimes these things have to happen to get you to where you need to be. I have gone through so much stuff myself and now I’m at my happy spot. I’m so glad your happy now! Love you ❤️
I really enjoyed this video! At the edn when you talked about all the drama, I think that can be said about anything people do. When I was in high school there was drama in band, theater, journalism, anything I was involved in, there was drama. Even now, as an art major, there is drama in my class. There is even drama in places that many people, including me, try to combat it. I'm so sorr about what you've been through but I'm so happy that you now have a positive out look on it.
My darling Jamie - that was so brave of you sharing this information with the world - you’ve been through a lot and it made you the person you are today - God Bless you and just remember you are wonderful