“I simply identify as a passionate individual,” expressed the 37-year-old, Vanessa Etienne, who currently pursues a career as an up-and-coming Content Writer-Reporter for PEOPLE magazine.
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Tammy Slaton is discussing her sexual orientation in an honest and open manner. In a recent TikTok video, the star of 1000-Lb. Sisters responded to a follower’s question about whether she identifies as transgender. This inquiry arose after Slaton used emojis representing the Pride flag and transgender flag in one of her captions.
Slaton clarified, “No, I’m not trans. I’m just a supporter of everybody.” She went on to explain that she previously identified as pansexual but has since leaned towards being a lesbian due to the loss of her husband. Slaton stated, “I kinda stopped messing with guys after my husband passed. So, I’m like a lesbian.”
She emphasized that her intention in using the emojis was to show support and love for the LGBTQ+ community. Slaton stressed, “I’m not a hater. Love is love. Everybody deserves love whether they’re gay, straight, trans, pan, bi, nonbinary, whatever. I’m just a lover.”
The video referred to Slaton’s late husband, Caleb Willingham, whom she met during her weight loss journey at Windsor Lane Rehabilitation Center in Gibsonburg, Ohio. They fell in love and got married in November 2022. Slaton previously described Willingham as the love of her life and expressed how he fit seamlessly into their family.
Unfortunately, seven months later, Willingham passed away at the age of 40 from unknown causes. Slaton shared that she has been handling her loss fairly well. To commemorate her late husband, she had two pieces of jewelry created from his ashes: a ring and a music note-shaped necklace that she wears every day.
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Michael Moretti
Slaton revealed her pansexual identity in 2021 while she was in a two-year relationship with her ex-boyfriend, Jerry. The reality star chose to share this aspect of her identity during an episode of 1000-Lb. Sisters, while they were dining at a restaurant.
According to Slaton, being pansexual means that “love is love.” She expressed her openness to dating individuals of any gender identity, including transgender, straight, or gay individuals.
Jerry initially struggled with understanding Slaton’s revelation and asked if she would date a transgender man. Slaton clarified that her attraction is based on how individuals make her feel, rather than their outward appearance.
In a separate interview, Slaton explained that she had always considered herself bisexual until a conversation with a friend changed her perspective. After her friend identified as pansexual and explained its meaning, Slaton realized that this label resonated with her as well. She embraced the understanding that being pansexual involves loving everyone, regardless of their gender identity. Slaton expressed her willingness to be in a relationship with someone who is transgender or with any other gender identity.
