Katie Maloney-Schwartz: "I Let MY BODY Become a Topic of Conversation"

Katie Maloney-Schwartz didn't set out to make body-shaming her cause. In fact, it took the Vanderpump Rules pal several years and some major soul-searching to become the body-positive role model fans see her as today. And in a recent Instagram Story, Katie came clean about what finally inspired her to speak out against bullies who feel inclined to make disparaging remarks about her body — and keep on speaking out.  

It started when Katie spotted a hurtful comment from a follower, which she reposted to prove her ultimate point. The user called Katie a "fat disgusting cry baby" and added: "If she is sick of people calling her fat, do something about it, like the gym." 

WHOA.

After issuing a tip of her own to this person ("GFY"), Katie took a moment to share why it's so crucial to her to take action when people talk about her body. Here's what she had to say:

"Imagine finally finding the courage and strength to finally love yourself enough to stand up for yourself and then be ridiculed and torn down again. It took me 3 years. I was a very unhappy person. I took it out on everyone including myself. I was unlovable. I vowed to make some changes. And I did. For the last 3 years. I let MY BODY become a topic of conversation. I say 'let' because I didn't have the courage or self love to argue it. FOR 3 YEARS."

She continued: "I'm not perfect. I know who I am. But I'm not a weak bitch. I am going to continue to grow and remind myself of my own strength. If that makes me a mean bitch in your eyes then so f---in be it! I'm remaining true." 

Go, Katie!