 | What We Built Together This Year |
| As we look back on this year, we are grateful for how much this community has grown and how much heart your families bring to Thrive Together. Every story shared, every moment of support offered and every time a child or teen showed up with honesty and courage helped shape this program into something meaningful and welcoming. This year, we've expanded engagement opportunities for families, introducing new youth and family content and resources to support and connect parents. We're also excited to have expanded both in-person and virtual advocacy opportunities, enabling families to learn, speak up and see their voices drive positive change. |
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| We also saw how powerful it can be when families share their stories. Each story reminds others that they are not alone and helps build a kinder and more understanding world for kids and teens affected by obesity. Thank you for being part of OAC’s Thrive Together Community. Your participation, your ideas and your presence make this program stronger. We hope you will keep spreading the word, invite other families to join and encourage them to sign up for the newsletter so they can stay connected. We’re excited for everything this community will build in the year ahead. ~ OAC Team |
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| Expert Insights: Protecting Kids from Hurtful Comments |
| Holiday gatherings can bring lots of conversation, and sometimes topics about weight or food choices come up that feel uncomfortable for kids. Even when comments come from well-meaning aunts, uncles or grandparents, parents can step in with warmth and confidence to keep things kind and supportive. These messages, even when unintended, can stick with kids and make them feel singled out or judged, so it helps to guide the conversation in a healthier direction. |
| Helpful ways to respond:
“Let’s focus on enjoying time together instead of talking about bodies or eating.”
“We don’t make comments about weight or bodies in our family.”
“Let’s keep our conversations positive.” |
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Kid and teen friendly ways to speak up:
“I don’t want to talk about that.”
“I’m happy with what I chose.”
“Let’s talk about something fun instead.” |
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| Parents play an important role in guiding conversations in a supportive direction, and these small moments of care make a real difference. A simple text to family members who bring up weight or food choices can help avoid uncomfortable moments too. Something like, “We’re keeping conversations away from bodies and food, thanks for supporting us,” sets gentle boundaries before everyone arrives. |
| You’re Not Alone — Thrive Together Can Help |
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| Nicholas’s Journey Nicholas has spent years overcoming challenges tied to a rare genetic condition and barriers to obesity care, but with the support of his family, care team and the OAC’s Thrive Together Program, he continues to make incredible progress toward his health goals. His mom, Jessica, shares their powerful story—highlighting the real obstacles families face when navigating obesity as a chronic disease and the importance of having a community that understands. Read their full story here. |
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| | Celebrating Community Voices in Charleston, WV Dana and her daughter, Allena Barnitz, joined our Regional event in Charleston, WV. “Being here at OAC, Allena saw for the first time that there are others like her,” they shared, highlighting their journey and involvement with OAC. Read their full story here. |
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A Voice of Strength: Annie Shares Her Story Thrive Together teen Annie Thurston also contributed to OAC's blog, courageously sharing her personal experience with bullying and using her voice to raise awareness during National Bullying Prevention Month. Read her full story here. |
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| Explore Resources & Fun Activities This Winter |
| OAC Health Talks Dr. Erin Etzel, PhD, shares insights on how sleep affects metabolism, appetite and daily habits, explaining the powerful ways your nightly rest can shape your overall health and wellbeing. Learn practical strategies to improve your sleep for better health. Watch the full episode now on YouTube. |
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| | Act Now: Urge Congress to Pass the Reducing Obesity in Youth Act (ROYA) One in three American children and teens has overweight or obesity, putting them at higher risk for serious health conditions like heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The Reducing Obesity in Youth Act (ROYA) addresses this by funding local programs that promote healthy eating and physical activity, supporting early childhood education partners with training and resources and strengthening monitoring and accountability across states. ROYA aligns with OAC’s Thrive Together program, which helps families navigate weight and health with confidence and compassion. Take action today by using our advocacy tool to urge your members of Congress to support ROYA—you can start with our template and personalize it with your own story for maximum impact! |
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| | | | Three Question Survey
Have your voice heard and help shape the future of Thrive Together, OAC’s Youth and Families Program! Take our quick 3-question survey—it only takes a minute, and your input will guide us in creating meaningful resources and support. |
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| | |  | | Help us spread the word so more families can access fun, engaging and educational resources. Share with your friends today! |
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| Obesity Action Coalition
4511 North Himes Ave., Suite 250 | Tampa, Florida 33614
(800) 717-3117 | [email protected] |
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