Shauna Rae, a 25-year-old woman with a condition that causes her to appear much younger, has bravely shared her experiences navigating dating and relationships in a recent episode of *The Unplanned Podcast*. Rae, who rose to fame through the TLC show *I Am Shauna Rae*, discussed the unique challenges she faces due to her petite stature (3 feet 10 inches tall and weighing around 50 pounds), which often attracts unwanted attention and misinterpretations.
She openly acknowledged the prevalence of “creeps” drawn to her appearance, highlighting the frustrating reality of being perceived as a child. This misconception leads to incidents like being given children’s menus in restaurants and a constant struggle to be taken seriously in public. Beyond the superficial challenges, Rae detailed a deeply personal struggle: a past abusive relationship.
Rae revealed that her abusive relationship began subtly, escalating from seemingly minor instances of physical aggression to outright violence. She recounted how her ex’s anger, initially directed at inanimate objects, eventually turned toward her, leading to physical assault. She attributed her vulnerability to past neglect and admitted to making poor choices in partners. The relationship ended when her ex began sending threatening texts, prompting Rae to finally break free. This experience informed her advice to others: seek help early if a relationship becomes emotionally or physically abusive, and prioritize self-worth and well-being above all else. She emphasized that healthy relationships should be uplifting and supportive, not damaging.
Further complicating her dating life is the constant suspicion and fear of predatory intentions. Rae candidly shared her fear of being preyed upon due to her youthful appearance, expressing the difficulty in discerning genuine interest from harmful intentions. She described her early anxieties about dating, recalling her immediate suspicion of anyone who showed romantic interest.
However, Rae’s parents offered her a different perspective, emphasizing the importance of friendship and genuine connection as the foundation of any lasting relationship. Their advice focused on building a bond with someone who values her as a person, regardless of her physical appearance, a message of lasting strength and resilience. Their wisdom underscores the importance of inner substance over superficial attraction, reminding us that true connections transcend fleeting perceptions.