Semi-Well-Adjusted Despite Literally Everything: A Memoir

Stoner booked the role of Sally on the Disney Channel’s series Mike’s Super Short Show. Cindy warned them and LuAnne that contracts with the channel could be both good and bad; Stoner might get more roles with Disney, but they might be pigeon-holed in the industry as a result. Throughout Stoner’s time on the show, they began to change. In retrospect, they were being pushed into adulthood. Over time, the show gave Stoner more opportunities and secured them more roles, too. They were proud of themselves but had to work constantly.

Stoner reflects on the abuse and exploitation they suffered “[b]eing a minor in adult workplaces” (72). The crew was never trained in how to work with children. Meanwhile, Stoner developed a negative relationship with their body when they entered puberty, as they knew their changing body would alter their opportunities in the industry.

Stoner returned to Ohio for a holiday, convinced that everything would be the same as they left it. However, the trip ended up being more difficult than expected: They didn’t know how to interact with anyone and felt out of place even among family. Back in LA, Stoner tried hard to be more “normal,” taking trips to Walmart and participating in youth basketball.