"Bullying, bias, and stigma can follow you throughout your entire life as a person living with obesity."

John,

Each year, the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) receives countless stories from those who face weight-based bullying and harassment from their peers. Often dismissed as a regular part of growing up, bullying dramatically reduces a child's quality of life, from declines in physical and psychosocial health to emotional and social well-being and educational progress. 
 

Below, you'll find a story submitted by Faith,  an OAC Member who has dealt with weight-based bullying throughout her time at school and beyond.
 

By donating to the OAC during Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, you're providing the funds that allow us to continue and expand on our efforts to support those vulnerable to bullying. We are committed to programs that educate families about obesity and excess weight, advocate to ensure children can access treatments, support children through their health journeys, and end weight bias once and for all.

As a child with obesity, I dealt with many instances of bullying. In elementary school, the bullying took the form of kids not wanting to be on my team during gym class or mocking me on field day. In middle school, it morphed into texts or calls making fun of me for my weight. The middle school bullying even pushed me to switch schools to start fresh in high school. Bullying, however, doesn’t just stop when you become an adult. Being an adult with obesity has come with its own set of cruel comments from those who don't understand the complexities of obesity.

As a teenager, I had bariatric surgery. Receiving the evidence-based treatment I needed for my condition, and learning more about the science behind obesity, has helped me deal with the bias and stigma I faced. I encourage all children, parents, and guardians to utilize resources from advocacy organizations like the Obesity Action Coalition to find access to evidence-based treatment and to learn more about obesity.

Bullying, bias, and stigma can follow you throughout your entire life as a person living with obesity, but treatment, education, and support can help reduce the negative impacts.

Enough is enough. The OAC is taking a stand against childhood obesity bullying, but we can't do it alone. By donating to the OAC during Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, you're providing the funds that allow us to continue and expand on our efforts to support children battling obesity.