Tomoko Igari of the Japanese idol group Masked Girls has gained support online after directly confronting malicious comments aimed at wheelchair users.
On May 12, Tomoko shared a strongly worded message through social media after seeing comments claiming that wheelchair users “live comfortably because they sit all day.”
Quoting one of the comments herself, Tomoko responded sharply: “Some people seem to think sitting means living comfortably. Why don’t you try spending all day sitting down yourself?”
She continued by explaining the physical pain and invisible struggles that come with living in a wheelchair. “If you sit all day, your legs swell and back pain becomes part of everyday life,” she shared.
Tomoko also opened up about other difficulties that are not immediately visible to others. She explained that she regularly experiences muscle pain in her arms, which effectively serve as her legs, along with challenges related to maintaining balance and bodily functions.
She ended her statement with a powerful remark: “If I look comfortable to you, then let’s trade your healthy body for mine.”
Her response quickly spread online, with many fans and netizens expressing anger toward the hateful comments while praising Tomoko for speaking honestly about the realities faced by wheelchair users.
This is not the first time Tomoko has spoken publicly about online harassment. In 2024, she revealed that she had received death threats through messaging platforms, including messages threatening to burn down her home and kill her. At the time, she admitted that the threats left her fearful whenever she went outside.
Tomoko’s condition stems from a tragic accident in 2018. During an outdoor event, a large signboard reportedly collapsed due to strong winds and fell on her, causing severe spinal cord injuries that resulted in paralysis from the waist down.
Despite the life-changing accident, Tomoko continued pursuing her idol career and eventually returned to the stage performing in a wheelchair. Her perseverance has since inspired many fans, with some calling her a symbol of strength and resilience.
Sources: Netizenbuzz
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