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Lane Bryant's 'Plus Is Equal' Campaign Calls For Body Diversity In The Media

September 10, 2015, 7:44 am
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When US Vogue's September issue first hit shelves, there was one advert that stood out.

The mystery ad featured the silhouettes of plus-size women, along with the hashtag #PlusIsEqual and a simple sentence: "It's time for change."

As HuffPost Canada Style pointed out at the time, the two-page ad was the only image to feature plus-size models in the entire 832-page magazine.

Plus-size fashion retailer Lane Bryant eventually came forward as the company behind the intriguing image, and now they've revealed the faces behind those beautiful bodies.




The Vogue image was part of Lane Bryant's wider #PlusIsEqual campaign.

The campaign's site reads: "67% of US women are size 14-34. But they’re underrepresented on billboards, magazines, TV… everywhere. We believe all women should be seen and celebrated equally."

On Tuesday, the brand tweeted an image of five of the plus-size models involved in #PlusIsEqual, along with the words: "It’s us. It’s on. It’s time to represent."




The ladies behind #PlusIsEqual will be "taking over" Times Square in New York on Monday in order to inspire body confidence among the public and promote diversity in the media.

On Twitter, Lane Bryant has also hinted that New York Fashion Week will be getting some body image love, too.

The #PlusIsEqual campaign follows the brand's #ImNoAngel campaign, which launched back in April.

The #ImNoAngel advertisements featured prominent plus-size models including Ashley Graham, Marquita Pring and Candice Huffine and set out to prove you don't have to look like a Victoria's Secret Angel to be smokin'.

Judging by the response on Twitter, we think they succeeded.




SEE ALSO:

This Is The Worst Way To Advertise Plus Size Leggings

Mum Stands In Bikini And Blindfold To Promote Body Acceptance


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RUOK? And World Suicide Prevention Day Highlight The Power Of Listening When It Comes To Mental Health

September 10, 2015, 7:56 am
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While the internet gets fully behind World Suicide Prevention Day, a lesser known awareness campaign called RUOK? is also in full swing.

RUOK? day urges people to thank anyone who's been there for them during a rough patch or a tough day, while also kickstarting meaningful conversations surrounding mental health.

It is a popular day in Australia, but its values and messages are worthy of being shared across the pond, too.

"It can be the day to start a conversation, as well as celebrate the people who already do that on a regular basis," reads the RUOK? site.

The non-profit organisation was launched following the suicide of Barry Larkin. After his death, Larkin's friends and family were left distraught and with endless questions.

friend comforting

More than a decade later, his son Gavin Larkin chose to champion just one question "are you okay?" in honour of his father, in the hope that it would help protect other families from the pain he endured.

Gavin sadly passed away from cancer in 2011, but his memory lives on through RUOK? day, which roots itself firmly in the belief that a single conversation could change a life.

With the theme of this World Suicide Prevention Day being about "reaching out and saving lives", the work of Australian-based organisation RUOK? is more prominent than ever.

Ruth Sutherland, chief executive of Samaritans, summarises the importance of listening perfectly: "It really does have the power to dramatically change how someone is feeling.

"At a time when you believe you are not worth caring about, somebody asking you how you are can alter your point of view and bring peace of mind."

The day also inspired thousands of tweets supporting the cause and asking the ever important question: "Are you okay?"






















Useful websites and helplines:

  • Samaritans, open 24 hours a day, on 08457 90 90 90


  • Mind, open Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm on 0300 123 3393


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UK Plus Size Fashion Week Founder, Rianne Ward, On Why We Should Embrace The Term 'Plus Size'

September 10, 2015, 7:56 am
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There's a lot of debate about whether the fashion industry should ditch the term "plus-size", but one woman firmly behind keeping it alive is Rianne Ward.

Ward is committed to making the fashion industry more inclusive and diverse, but for her the only way to change it is from within - and this involves not only talking the industry's talk, but walking its walk.

"'Plus-size' is the term the industry uses and we should embrace it," she tells HuffPost UK Lifestyle. "I have no problem with the term. I think it shows that there are variations among women."

That's why she's launched , UK Plus Size Fashion Week (UKPSFW), which runs from 11-13 September, the week prior to the official London Fashion Week.

plus size fashion week
UK Plus Size Fashion Week runs from 11-13 September


Ward hopes the event's timing, central London location and professionalism will help establish plus size fashion as a "serious" player within the industry.

The event builds on British Plus Size Fashion Week, an event Ward co-founded in 2013. After two years the founders decided to go their separate ways, with Ward setting up her current project.

"The last event was a novelty for media, now we want to be taken more seriously," says Ward. "Plus size fashion is not a gimmick nor is it going away."

Now, unlike previous years, UKPSFW is using all professional plus size models to walk the catwalk show on Saturday and the event has drawn support from high street retailers such as Evans. In addition, Ward hopes to welcome a representative from the British Fashion Council.

"It is only once we establish ourselves that we can begin to ask: 'why are plus-size women being segregated?'" says Ward.

Lately body positive campaigns featuring women of all shapes and sizes have practically broken the internet. From the likes of Tess Holliday's #effyourbeautystandards to the backlash against Protein World, the tides are definitely a-changing.

In terms of plus-size acceptance, Ward believes that the world has come a long way in recent years: "A few years ago media wouldn’t be talking half as much as plus size and curvy. The more we allow these conversations to be had, the easier it will be to change things."

For Ward the ultimate goal is to teach better body acceptance for all women.

Ward, who used to be a professional singer, has always been plus-size. And while she may be body confident today, she admits to having had her "own personal struggles" with regards to her appearance.

"I've always been big," she tells HuffPost UK Lifestyle. "But when I was younger it was clear that all my friends were much slimmer."

SEE ALSO:

Body Confident, Plus-Size Women Pose Topless For Empowering Photos


This Project Is Proof That Body Positivity Saves Lives


She credits her career as a singer with giving her body confidence.

"I started to sing in my early teens. I spent a lot of time in rehearsal studios looking in the mirror and I started to embrace every part of me. You can’t stand there and not start to love who you are," she says.

"I was very lucky to have great people around me - friends, management, family - who were constantly telling me how talented and beautiful I was. It was their guidance that made me believe in myself."

She adds: "Like any woman I have days when think butt looks big, but I love me for me on the whole. That’s what I want to share with other women."

rianne ward
Rianne Ward


But for every body positive message, there are also those who criticise the glorification of the plus-size physique, claiming it contributes to the country's obesity crisis.

When asked about this her response is simple: "Everyone thinks they are a doctor these days, but really they have no idea about other people's health.

"Just because someone is a size 18 rather than a 10, it doesn't necessarily make them less healthy. That person may be in in gym three or four times a week. There are lots of reasons why someone may be larger than another."

That's why she launched Curvy & Fit with her plus size magazine Evolve, her aim is the tailor fitness to suit larger women and to promote a healthy lifestyle.

I am a woman who understands balance and health conscious when women are overweight and unhealthy, Curvy and Fit."

She's keen to point out that UK Plus Size Fashion Week is not about promoting obesity or unhealthiness, but about self-confidence and fashion.

When asked what message she would send to the next generation of young women, her answer was simple: "Be proud, be you."

She adds: "For me it always comes back to loving yourself from the inside. I wish I was told this more when I was younger.

"You should embrace who you are and be proud regardless of size and shape. Events like UK Plus Size Fashion Week and magazines like Evolve are there to help young girls. There isn't enough balance at the moment - it’s OK to be larger to what media says is 'the right size'."
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Huge Tumour Growing On Woman's Back Measures 19cm In Length (Graphic Image)

September 10, 2015, 9:38 am
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You often hear about people who live with a tumour in their body for years before noticing something is up.

But one 46-year-old woman from Dublin has knowingly been living with a large growth on her back for more than 10 years - and, much to the confusion of doctors, has never sought to have it removed.

The "breast-sized" tumour is 19cm in length and 6.7cm wide, according to the British Medical Journal.

Doctors say the tumour is painless, however it has accelerated in growth over the past three years.

tumour

The report says that the woman is a heavy-smoker with a history of chronic obstructive airway disease.

The tumour is described as being "firm to the touch and non-tender".

"She had no other skin lesion and there were no palpable nodes. The rest of the examination was normal," reads the report.

An MRI scan showed that the tumour was not cancerous and doctors believe the "mass" is a lipoma, which is a harmless fatty tissue tumour.

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According to NHS Choices, lipomas aren't cancerous and are caused by an overgrowth of fat cells. "They can grow anywhere in the body where there are fat cells, but are usually seen on the shoulders, neck, chest, arms, back, buttock and thigh.

"They feel soft and 'doughy' to touch and range from the size of a pea to a few centimetres across," reads the NHS site.

"They grow very slowly and don't usually cause any other problems.

"Occasionally, lipomas can develop deeper inside the body, so you won't be able to see or feel them."

Dr Tunde Abdulsalam, who created the BMJ report, said that it was the largest lipoma he had seen and added that it was "unusual" that the patient had let it grow to that size.

"Most patients would have it removed sooner for cosmetic reasons," he told the Mail Online.

"From my clinical experience most lipomas are small in size. And most patients frequently leave it alone because it is relatively stable for years and does not affect bodily function.

"But in some cases, it can increase in size as a person's BMI increases."

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Two-Year-Old Proudly Tells Parents She Has A Boyfriend, Crushed When Dad Says She Doesn't

September 11, 2015, 2:07 am
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Dads probably assume the first argument they'll have with their daughter about dating will be when she reaches her teens.

For this dad, it happened a lot earlier than expected.

Two-year-old Kennedy Kirkland from Alabama was filmed by her mum Chelsea telling her parents she has a boyfriend - Jared.

But she breaks down in tears after her dad Caleb tells her she's not allowed to date, and she doesn't have a boyfriend.

cries

"What's wrong?" asks her mum.

"Daddy says I don't have a boyfriend and I do," she says.

And when her dad tells her she can't have a boyfriend until she's 50, it just gets worse.

In an interview with ABC news, the mum explained Jared was Kennedy's uncle's roommate.

She said: "He plays football in college, so we went to the game with my brother and she saw him there, so she informed us that he was her boyfriend."

She then added: "We’ll definitely keep this [video] for when she gets older, goes on her first date, or gets married."

Poor little girl.

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Dad Performs Spectacular Acrobatic Moves With Daughter On Beach


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How To Treat Baby Seizures: Most Parents Have 'No Idea' According To British Red Cross

September 11, 2015, 2:10 am
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Most parents have no idea how to treat baby seizures, according to a new study by the British Red Cross.

Two thirds (66%) of the 2,000 parents surveyed said they had never been taught to recognise or treat the most common type of seizures in young children.

Although one in 20 children will have a febrile seizure, 65% of parents didn't know what they were.

A febrile seizure is a fit that can happen when a child has a fever. Sometimes called febrile convulsions, they are relatively common and, in most cases, aren't serious.

baby first aid

The British Red Cross released the results and a 50-second awareness video as part of their 'Rapped Up' series ahead of World First Aid Day on 12 September 2015.

Joe Mulligan, British Red Cross' head of first aid, said: "Febrile seizures are one of the most common types of fit in babies and young children. The symptoms look frightening but are easily treatable.

"We want to make sure parents feel confident, informed and can take action right away."

Mum Joanne Riley has witnessed a febrile seizure in her two-year-old son Freddie, describing it as being a "traumatic experience."

She said: "Seeing my baby stiff and shaking and slowly watching his lips turn blue was one of the scariest moments of my life. I remember thinking ‘this is it, my little baby is dying’.

“I called 999 and ran next door to get my neighbour who is a nurse. Luckily the paramedics arrived very quickly and took him to hospital.

"I was surprised to hear how common the seizures are amongst babies and young children. I’ve since refreshed my first aid skills on a baby and child course and I’d advise all parents to do the same."

Advice on treating a baby having a febrile seizure from the Red Cross:

1. The baby or child may arch their back, stiffen their body and have clenched fists. They look red-faced, are hot to touch and sweating.

Their eyes may roll upwards and they may hold their breath.

2. Protect the baby or child from injury. Do not restrain them.

Remove objects that may injure the baby or child while they are having the seizure. Use a blanket or clothing to protect their head from injury.

3. Remove outer clothing to help cool them.

Febrile seizures are caused by a raised temperature so it is important to cool the baby or child. If the room they are in is hot, ensure there is a flow of fresh air (e.g. open a window).

4. When the seizure is over, help the baby or child to rest on their side with their head tilted back.

If the symptoms continue or it is their first seizure, seek medical advice.

Helping them to lie on their side with their head back will help them to keep breathing.


SEE ALSO:

'First Aid Rapped Up' Child Safety Campaign Launched By British Red Cross Featuring Rapping Babies

Thinkuknow Campaign Launches To Teach Parents How To Respond If Their Child Begins Sexting


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Parents Mocking Daughter's Relationship Selfies Is The Funniest Thing You'll See Today

September 11, 2015, 2:36 am
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A mum and dad have embarrassed their daughter in the best way by recreating the couple selfies she does with her boyfriend. Literally.

After seeing the collage of photos on her daughter's Facebook, Nancy Musson decided to use the same filters and poses with her husband, because why on earth not?

Mrs Musson, from New York City, posted it to her daughter Emily's Facebook page. These were the results.

recreate

parents

Her daughter's reaction? Reposting the pics on Twitter and writing: "My parents are actually on drugs or something".




Soon after she tweeted, the photos gained a lot of attention on Twitter, having now racked up 46,500 retweets and 62,300 favourites.

But Emily Musson didn't really know what all the fuss was about.

Speaking to Cosmopolitan, she said: "When it went viral I was confused like yeah it's funny but like it's more interesting if you actually know my parents.

"My mum thinks it's hilarious and claims she wants to be on Dancing with the Stars."




While the teenager was picked up by media outlets to be interviewed, mum Nancy was left out.




But in true mum style, Mrs Musson was over the moon she was "trending".

She later added some wise words for other mums out there who might embarrass their children: who cares.







We think she's pretty awesome.

SEE ALSO:

Kids' Embarrassing Moments That Will Make Every Parent Cringe

9 Embarrassing Things That All Parents Do (But We Love Them Anyway)


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Man With HIV Has Sassiest Response To Guy Who Rejected Him On Grindr

September 11, 2015, 2:41 am
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When Tom Knight told a man he was talking to on Grindr that he is HIV-positive, the gent in question said he "wasn’t ready for that kind of complication".

Instead of letting the rejection get him down, Knight, 28, responded with a ton of sass, and posted a status about his Grindr conversation on Facebook.

Knight, a columnist at Gay Times Magazine and an associate producer at Pride London, told the man on Grindr: "Oh you still wear flared jeans... I'm not sure I'm ready for that kinda complication in my life."

His Facebook status has now been shared hundreds of times.

Man on Grindr - 'Oh you have HIV... I'm not ready for that kind of complication in my life'.Me - *Flicks through his...

Posted by Tom Knight on Saturday, 5 September 2015




Commenting on his original Facebook status, Knight revealed that his conversation with the man went further downhill: "He then went on to say: 'Someone in your situation should be a bit more realistic'. To which I replied: 'Well the good news is my HIV can be treated. Your fashion sense however...'," Knight said.

Speaking to BuzzFeed News, Knight said he told the man he is HIV positive after the man asked him if he was "clean".

"I hate that term, as if HIV means you’re dirty," Knight said.

Posted by Tom Knight on Wednesday, 12 August 2015




Knight went on to say that although he responded to the man with a sense of humour, it's always "a kick in the teeth" when someone refuses to date him because he is HIV positive.

"It’s not easy telling people I’m positive. You worry about what they’re thinking about you. I get some people who are simply extremely curious about it and will ask what it’s like for me and how I’m doing.

"Sometimes I sense they’re not interested in pursuing anything other than a conversation after that."

SEE ALSO:

HIV-Positive Father Shares Photo With His HIV-Negative Family To Break Down The Stigma

Men's Magazine 'Vangardist' Uses HIV Positive Blood On Cover To Fight Social Stigma


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Katie Hopkins' View On Leopard Print Hair Row: 'Some People Just Think They're Above The Rules'

September 11, 2015, 3:12 am
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Katie Hopkins has hit out at the mother of a teen who was sent home from school for having leopard print hair by saying it's "nothing about rights".

Earlier in the week, mum, Yvonne Mcdowell, 34, was furious about the school's decision to send her daughter home.

She said: "As far as I'm concerned it's a breach of my daughter's human rights."

Lauren, 13, who attended Forge Valley School in Sheffield was sent home on the first day of the new school term.

Writing in her blog for The Sun, Hopkins wrote: "It’s not about human rights, Yvonne.

"This is simply about Lauren’s ability to comply with school uniform rules, which are published on its website. I checked."

hair

Lauren, 13, with her hairstyle that got her sent home from school



The uniform policy at Forge Valley School stated: "The school does not permit children to have extreme haircuts or colour."

But McDowell, who didn't understand why her daughter was sent home, said: "They are discriminating against [my daughter] because of how she looks. She has the right to express herself in whatever way she wants as long as she is in school uniform."

According to Hopkins, it's less about the hair and more about complying with basic rules.

katie hopkins

Hopkins added: "If you teach a child that appearance doesn’t matter, what will be the next thing that child asserts her individuality over?

"Simply put, some people think they are above rules or even that rules are there to be broken."

SEE ALSO:

Teen Sent Home From School Due To Leopard Print Hair, Mum Says: 'It's A Breach Of Her Human Rights'

Katie Hopkins: 'Dear Children'


It's not everyday that Hopkins makes a claim that HuffPost UK's parenting community agrees with, but after posting the initial story on the Facebook, everyone seemed to agree.

Mum Wendy wrote: "Bloody ridiculous. On what planet did she think that would be acceptable for school?"

Another mum added: "I wouldn't expect my employers or my customers to accept this as a suitable hairstyle and therefore agree with the school, children go to school to prepare them for adult life which unfortunately means sacrificing small things such as having a particular hairstyle, piercings or visible tattoos."

Other mums agreed with the fact the teen being sent home from school was more about following rules.

One wrote: "I'm sorry but that hair cut isn't acceptable, the whole point of a uniform and certain rules regarding hair and make up and what ever else is to learn the presentation of yourself and the school.

"It would be hard to get a job with the leopard print in the hair too so how can you expect a school to be okay with it?"

One mum added: "In life we have to follow rules, that's just how life is, from wearing a seat belt, to not carrying liquids on an aircraft.

"Some rules are inconvenient, some may annoy us but they are all there for a reason. If a parent chooses a school they usually choose it because they feel it's best for their child."
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Katie Hopkins On Pain Relief During Labour: 'If You Take The Pain, You Are More Of A Woman'

September 11, 2015, 3:41 am
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Katie Hopkins' latest controversial comment has angered many parents: mums who don't have pain relief during labour are more of a woman.

According to the 40-year-old, who has three children India, Poppy and Maximillan, women should just "push it out, not wimp out" just like she did.

Speaking on her TLC show, If Katie Hopkins Ruled The World, she said: "What I see is a lot of women, you know, second or third contraction, screaming for the epidural.

"You've got to say, 'no, it's gonna hurt, you've got to man up, grip it, and take the pain', and if you take the pain and give birth vaginally then you are more of a woman."

katie hopkins

Hopkins reinforced her point, adding: "I do really believe if you give birth naturally then you are a stronger, more powerful woman."

On the show, mother-of-two Ava Vidal, disagreed.

She said: "The painful thing is the parenthood, so why should I go through all that squeezing them out when it's painful enough? The stress that you go through, why do you want to make it any harder."

As expected, parents were not happy with Hopkins' comments, taking to Twitter to air their views.













SEE ALSO:

Dear Children

Katie Hopkins And Louise Mensch Troll Each Other Over M&S Boss's Maternity Leave


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Black Dot Campaign Offers Domestic Abuse Victims A Silent Way To Ask For Help

September 11, 2015, 4:27 am
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A subtle campaign is enabling victims of domestic abuse to ask for help, without having to speak out.

The Black Dot Campaign encourages victims to draw a simple black dot on the palm of their hand as a silent plea to those who may be able to help them.

"This is a campaign to help the most vulnerable victims of domestic violence," reads the campaign's Facebook page.

"They simply draw a black dot on their hands and agencies, family, friends, community centres, doctors, hospitals can recognise this person needs help but can not ask for it."

black dot campaign

The campaign was launched by a domestic violence survivor who says she experienced physical, emotional and sexual abuse. She says her experiences inspired her to launch the campaign, "as so many people suffer in silence because they cannot ask for help".

Danielle Tredgett is a former victim of domestic abuse. She wrote on the campaign's Facebook page that she wishes a similar campaign was around back then.

"I felt so alone with nobody to talk to," she writes. "Luckily I escaped but not many people do."

While many people - like Tredgett - have praised the campaign, there have also been questions raised over the safety of it. Particularly in terms of what happens if the person committing the abuse realises what the dot means.

Zoe Hammond writes: "How does this help? Won't the perpetrators of domestic violence also know what the black dot means - so if they see their victim with this on their hand won't that potentially make the situation worse?"

SEE ALSO:

Domestic Violence Poster Targeting Fathers Branded 'Ignorant' And 'Wrong'

Why A Surge In Convictions For Violence Against Women Is Actually Good News


In response, the founder of the initiative posted on Facebook saying that "any idea of 'help' in these circumstances have risks".

"That's why we continue to invent new ways to help," she writes. "The black dot is not the only way to access help but it could be the one that could help a particular person. Each domestic abuse case is completely different, each perpetrator behaves differently, with one thing in common: CONTROL."

The page's founder adds that she agrees it "could" put people at risk, "but that person knows their perpetrator and what the triggers are and what is safe and not safe to do".

"Many are unable to speak out through fear, shame, unknown consequences if children are involved. Just because you are or have been a victim it doesn't mean you are stupid and make stupid decisions," she adds. "This has helped many people already and I thank everyone for their continued support."

Polly Neate, chief executive of Women’s Aid, tells HuffPost UK Lifestyle that it is useful to have a range of options available for victims who want to communicate their abuse.

"It can be very difficult and dangerous for victims of domestic abuse to speak out about what is happening to them, due to fear of what the perpetrator will do, and fear of not being believed," says Neate.

"The Black Dot could help some victims to communicate their abuse and it is useful to have a range of options because women’s circumstances vary greatly."

But she also recognises that this could endanger victims too.

Story continues below...


"If a perpetrator becomes aware of what the black dot means, the consequences could be very dangerous," she says.

"Many perpetrators monitor their victims extremely closely. We advise anyone who is feeling frightened of their partner to contact the National Domestic Violence Helpline or go to www.womensaid.org.uk for advice and support."

Mark Brooks, chairman of ManKind Initiative adds that he welcomes the campaign, but would like to see it become more reflective of male abuse victims too.

"If the campaign is to run then it must be male-victim friendly as well," he says. "The video we have seen on YouTube does not mention male victims and only shows female victims – that is not the reality of domestic abuse in Britain today."

Meanwhile, Black Dot's founder says she's happy the campaign is opening up discussion surrounding domestic violence.

"People are talking about domestic abuse, they are sharing my posts and opening up the world's eyes to this issue," she says.

"In two days we have reached 1.5 million people and everyone is getting involved. People are thanking me, we have helped people access services they didn't feel strong enough to access and we are raising awareness worldwide."

  • Refuge - Domestic violence help for women and children - 0808 2000 247


  • Visit Women's Aid - support for abused women and children – or call the National Domestic Violence Helpline, run by Women’s Aid and Refuge, on 0808 2000 247




  • Men’s Advice Line for advice and support for men experiencing domestic violence and abuse - 0808 801 0327
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Sunbathing Addict Warns Others Of Skin Cancer Risk After Having 2cm Chunk Of Skin Removed

September 11, 2015, 4:38 am
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Ashley Alexander was so determined to have tanned skin, she used to sit in the sun for hours on end lathered in baby oil.

But in October of last year she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of skin cancer after discovering a new mole on her back.

Doctors were forced to remove a large section of Alexander's skin, leaving her with a scar.

Now, the 27-year-old, from Cumnock, Ayrshire, is warning others about the dangers of sun exposure.

ashley alexander
Ashley Alexander


Alexander, who works as an NHS support worker, went to extreme lengths to get a deep tan on holiday in the past.

"I basically treated my body like a sausage under a grill. Being pale skinned, for me having a tan was a great confidence boost," she said, according to the MailOnline.

She admitted she waited six months to get a mole on her back checked after it began to feel itchy.

"In the end it was my mum who forced me to go to the doctor and get it checked," she added.

ashley alexander sunburn
Ashley Alexander used to regularly allow her skin to burn


Alexander was immediately referred to University Hospital Crosshouse in Kilmarnock, where doctors removed the mole and 2cm of affected tissue.

After further tests, she was diagnosed with stage one malignant melanoma and was told she needed more tissue removed from her back.

She's also had four further moles removed from her body, but thankfully, received the all clear earlier this month.

ashley alexander mole
A close-up of Ashley Alexander's mole and scar


According to the NHS, melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other organs in the body and the most common symptom is the appearance of a new mole.

Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the UK with around 13,000 new cases of melanoma diagnosed each year.

Although melanoma can't always be prevented, you can significantly decrease your chances of developing the disease by restricting your UV exposure.

Alexander now wears factor 50 suncream and long sleeve tops whenever possible.

She has said she no longer cares if she has pale skin and has recently set up a JustGiving page to raise awareness about skin cancer. The page also asks for donations for the charity Melanoma UK.

"I have been very silly and neglectful through my time when it comes to skin care in the sun, unfortunately I am now paying that price," Alexander writes on the page.

"I am stubborn and determined and I know this battle is going in my favour."

SEE ALSO:

Photo Of This Woman's Thumb Could Save Your Life

Why You Shouldn't Follow The 'Sunburn Art' Trend



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Talented Tattoo Artist Follows People's Veins To Create Customised Fine Line Tattoos Free Hand

September 11, 2015, 4:46 am
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If you're looking for a tattoo unique to you, it doesn't get more personal than this.

Berlin-based tattoo artist Sanne Vaghi follows people's veins with ink to create customised tattoos over their bodies.

Vaghi, who described her style as "abstract and organic with vein-like structures", said her love of fine lines symbolise pathways of life with a natural flow are always the basis of her designs.

Speaking to skin-artists, she said: "The most important [thing] to me is that all designs are unique and connect with the personal meaning for the customer.

"Many of the tattoos are nature-themed, juxtaposing the permanence of a tattoo with the impermanence of the world we live in."

A photo posted by Sanne Vaghi (@sanne_vaghi) on





Vaghi said her customers even trust her to draw freehand on their bodies with ink.

She added: "I interact with the flow of the body. The most important to me is that all designs are unique and connect with the personal meaning for the customer."

Have her a look at her designs below.

A photo posted by Sanne Vaghi (@sanne_vaghi) on





A photo posted by Sanne Vaghi (@sanne_vaghi) on





A photo posted by Sanne Vaghi (@sanne_vaghi) on





A photo posted by Sanne Vaghi (@sanne_vaghi) on





A photo posted by Sanne Vaghi (@sanne_vaghi) on





A photo posted by Sanne Vaghi (@sanne_vaghi) on





A photo posted by Sanne Vaghi (@sanne_vaghi) on





A photo posted by Sanne Vaghi (@sanne_vaghi) on




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Caitlyn Jenner Discusses Skincare In Latest Video, Then Reveals Beauty Brand She Loves

September 11, 2015, 4:54 am
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Caitlyn Jenner has revealed the beauty brand that gives her the perfect coverage in her latest video.

The reality star filmed the video in response to someone asking: "How has your skin and skin care changed since your transition?" on her website.

Acknowledging her skin certainly had changed, Jenner also admitted she had her beard removed back in the 80s, which took a lot of volume out the bottom of her face.





But moving onto the beauty brand she loves, Jenner admitted she always uses MAC products.

She said: "I think they do a great job. I love their coverage and it's been a lot of fun for me to learn makeup and how it works."

The reality star explained that before her show, I Am Cait, she had always done her makeup on her own.

But because she wants to look good on TV, she now has her own makeup artists. Jel.

SEE ALSO:

Caitlyn Jenner Style: How She Is A Role Model For Older Women

Caitlyn Jenner Reveals Fears She Could Be Sent To A Men's Prison, Over Criminal Misdemeanour Charges


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Domestic Abuse Victim Taz Thornton Shares Moving Video About Suicidal Thoughts To Help Others

September 11, 2015, 7:11 am
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A domestic abuse victim has shared a moving video about her suicidal thoughts to help others who are suffering.

Taz Thornton, an empowerment coach and entrepreneur, posted the video to her Facebook page, where it's since racked up over 40,000 views and been shared hundreds of times.

Titled 'It's not always easy, but it IS always worthwhile', the video documents Thornton's journey from getting out of an abusive relationship, to having suicidal thoughts and coming out the other side.

taz thornton

Thornton told HuffPost UK Lifestyle: "It was a spur of the moment decision to shoot a video.

"I had no idea it would have the impact it has had. When I had the 'download' and recorded it there and then I didn't expect it to go any further than my friends list.

"I've been completely overwhelmed by the response. I've been trying to respond personally to every message and was particularly touched to hear that the video had saved the life of one person who was about to take their own life but had been told by a friend to watch my video at just the right time."

If you've been affected by the issues in this article, please call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90.

  • Refuge - Domestic violence help for women and children - 0808 2000 247


    • Visit Women's Aid - support for abused women and children – or call the National Domestic Violence Helpline, run by Women’s Aid and Refuge, on 0808 2000 247




    • Men’s Advice Line for advice and support for men experiencing domestic violence and abuse - 0808 801 0327
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Lionel Messi Misses Training After Girlfriend Antonella Roccuzzo Gives Birth Their Second Son

September 11, 2015, 8:04 am
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Lionel Messi's long-term partner Antonella Roccuzzo has given birth to the couple's second child together.

The Barcelona footballer, 27, missed training on 11 September because of "family matters" but it was later confirmed his wife had given birth to their second son - reportedly named Mateo.

The couple already have two-year-old son Thiago together.

lionel messi girlfriend

I say: The news was confirmed by Messi's brother, Matias, on Twitter, who had been quick to dismiss rumours earlier in the day that Lionel's son was called Benjamin.

At 1.37pm on 11 September, he tweeted in Spanish, which read: "I want to make two things clear, firstly Leo's son won't be called Benjamin, as the media says, and secondly the baby's not been born yet."




However at 2.15pm, he released the happy news: "Well folks, Mateo has just been born. He is beautiful. Later I will give more details now to enjoy!"




Lionel Messi and his girlfriend are yet to confirm the news themselves.

The 28-year-old is still expected to be playing the match against Atletico Madrid on 12 September.

Announcing the news in May, Messi uploaded a photo on Instagram in June with his girlfriend and son adding the caption: "Waiting for you baby! We love you."

A photo posted by Leo Messi (@leomessi) on




SEE ALSO:

Lionel Messi Baby News: Partner Antonella Roccuzzo Pregnant With Second Child

Creative Pregnancy Announcement: Couple Reveal Baby News With Animated Time-Lapse Greeting Card
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Dad Tells Mesmerised Baby Daughter How She Was Created In Hilarious Video

September 11, 2015, 8:21 am
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Warning, scenes of an extremely adorable nature...

National Geographic presenter Jason Silva has posted a video of himself and his baby daughter, teaching her a lesson in “baby philosophy.”

The video shows Silva looking into his child's eyes and telling her how she was created, and has since gone viral on Facebook with almost 30 million views.

funny reaction baby
Jason Silva looks teaches his daughter a thing or two


The 33-year-old father gives his child a life lesson, whilst holding her up in the air in his arms.

"You grew up inside your mother, and now you're grasping all of this amazing information as you map and model the world," he says.

"You're growing, you're learning, you're expanding... you're slowly emerging as a thinking being.

"And it's like oh my god this is what it's like to be a mind."

SEE ALSO:


Silva's epic tale ends on a beautiful note when he says: "Looking into your eyes is actually like looking into a galaxy."

Awwww, now that's something which every parent can resonate with.

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How To Hula Hoop Like A Pro: Marawa The Amazing Shares Her Tips

September 11, 2015, 8:31 am
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If the last time you used a hula hoop was as a child, you've been seriously missing out.

Not only is hula hooping loads of fun, it's also a great way to up your fitness.

In the above video by Refinery 29, master hula hooper Marawa the Amazing shares the Dos and Don'ts of working a hoop.

From picking the perfect size hoop to getting that hip action just right, these tips will tone your abs and put a smile on your face in no time.

SEE ALSO:

Tried And Tested: Hula Hoop Exercise Class - Burn Calories, Work Your Abs And Have A Lot Of Fun

6-Year-Old With Rare Syndrome Completely Steals Zumba Show

How To Get A Toned Bum In Four Steps

What Happens When You Work Out Like A Victoria's Secret Model?


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Katie Price Shares Rare Full Family Photo With All Five Kids: 'My Most Prized Collection'

September 11, 2015, 8:46 am
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Katie Price has shared rare photos of her entire family on social media showing just how big it really is.

Describing them as her "most prized collection", the former model posted two photos to Facebook and Instagram.

They both feature husband Kieran Hayler, and her five children - Harvey, Junior, Princess, Jett and Bunny.

Hayler is dad to Price's youngest children - Jett and Bunny. Princess and Junior are her children from former marriage with Peter Andre, and Harvey's father is footballer Dwight Yorke.

My most prized collection #family.Check out what we're all wearing at https://www.facebook.com/pages/KP-Bling-Limited/755225084586274?ref=ts&fref=ts and don't forget to click LIKE xx

Posted by KATIE PRICE on Wednesday, 9 September 2015



Although Price often shares moments on Instagram with her children separately, she rarely shares photos of them altogether.

In the photo, her two daughters Princess and Bunny are both wearing brightly-coloured tutus, while Junior, Harvey and Jett are wearing matching white vests.

Price later shared a second snap of her family in their swimming pool, featuring another woman we assume to be a family friend.

Jett's face is possibly the cutest thing we've seen today.

At home in the pool with the family

A photo posted by Katie Price (@officialkatieprice) on





SEE ALSO:

Katie Price Responds To Pregnancy Rumours By Posing For A Photo With A Fake Baby Bump

Katie Price Shares Sweet Photos From Youngest Daughter Bunny's First Birthday Party


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Levitating Groom In Possibly The Most Puzzling First Dance Video Ever

September 12, 2015, 10:10 am
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First dances can be awkward affairs, especially if a groom is ill at ease.

But Justin Willman certainly didn't look uncomfortable as he appeared to LEVITATE in front of hundreds of guests.

The American magician worked with his bride Jillian Sipkins to pull off the feat during an outside reception.

Bride Groom Spell First Dance
The bride and groom pulled off the trick in front of guests


And their guests were beside themselves with joy when Willman pulled off the trick, rising to their feet and punching the air.

As the couple begins their dance, Jillian uses her groom's body as a platform to perform a short gymnastic routine, including a cartwheel and handstand.

Then Willman moves around and falls backwards slowly, with the help of his bride.

He then appears to levitate as she withdraws her support and walks around him.

And while it's obvious his flexibility certainly helped out, questions remain over exactly how he pulled it off...

levitating groom
Guests leapt into the air as Willman appeared to hover above the ground


But then, Willman is a professional magician.

SEE ALSO:

This Mother And Son's Wedding Dance Medley Is Epic

Couple's First Wedding Dance To Bruno Mars' Uptown Funk Makes Us Want To Get Up And Boogie

Couple's First Dance At Wedding Is Extremely Impressive

Best Wedding Dance Ever? Hollie & Dave Smith's First Dance Was A Medley Of Awesome


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