Why People Think I’m Crazy for Owning 15 Reborn Dolls Amid Latest Scandal
A woman from North London is facing stigma for her collection of 15 reborn dolls amid a recent scandal involving another doll owner. Jess Ellis, 29, aims to dispel the negative stereotype that doll enthusiasts are “crazy.” She believes her collection provides comfort to those dealing with grief, not an obsession with realism.
The Impact of the Recent Scandal
The controversy centers around Kira Cousins, 22, who allegedly faked a pregnancy and childbirth with a reborn doll. Reports indicate she received gifts purportedly for her newborn before her family learned the truth. This incident has sparked conversations about the perception of doll collectors.
Key Details of the Scandal
- Kira Cousins allegedly wore a prosthetic baby bump.
- Shared ultrasound images and hosted a gender reveal party.
- Posted videos claiming a ‘baby’ was kicking.
While Jess does not condone Cousins’ actions, she empathizes with the possibility of underlying issues. “A mentally well person does not do that kind of thing,” she asserts. This incident, she fears, reinforces negative stereotypes about reborn doll owners.
Jess Ellis and Her Collection
Jess started collecting reborn dolls in May 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Struggling with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affected her ability to conceive, she found solace in these hyper-realistic dolls. Her collection includes dolls such as Rebecca, Zain, Sam, Annalese, and Aria.
Financial Commitment and Benefits
To date, Jess has invested over £6,000 in the dolls and their accessories. She specializes in painting the dolls to enhance their lifelike appearance. Jess explains the soothing aspects of her collection, such as their weighted feel, which can trigger maternal hormones similar to those experienced by new mothers.
Addressing Misconceptions
Jess emphasizes that many doll owners are well aware that these dolls are not real. “Most of the time, people get a reborn because they like the dolls, but they are also used for some kind of grief,” she states. She believes that while many people benefit from these dolls, Cousins’ scandal could lead to misunderstandings about the intentions of collectors.
In her public appearances on TikTok and YouTube, Jess shares her experiences and has largely avoided negative feedback regarding her dolls. “I haven’t had any backlash so far,” she mentioned. However, she remains vigilant about the evolving narrative surrounding reborn dolls.
As the debate continues, Jess hopes to change perceptions and highlight the emotional support that reborn dolls can offer to those in need.
