[CallMeKizzy]

My mother sent me a text message saying " i want to get surgery to get rid of my fat" and she told me it was from my 9 year old sister. my sister she is a big girl, but i dont think its in her concern right now to worry about surgery. i really dont know what to tell her.. though i have been a big girl all my life.. i have been teased, i have been called names, and i have felt the same way. at 19 i am still struggling with losing weight. i just dont know what to tell a 9 year old because no one ever talked to me, because i really wasn't open. any suggestions, i feel so upset that i just cannot be the big sister i am suppose to be

[Ronni_W]

Originally Posted by CallMeKizzy

i feel so upset that i just cannot be the big sister i am suppose to be

You are TOTALLY being an excellent big sister! -- by being concerned, and looking for ways to educate and guide your little sis to feel good about herself. You're spending your time and energy learning how to properly support and help her...and that is EXACTLY the best thing that you can do for her

You're right that surgery is not the answer. I'm sure you're also aware that a healthy diet and enough regular exercise will offer her more permanent solutions. At 9, however, it is also on the person who shops for and cooks her meals, snacks and beverages. For children, as for adults, it is a lifestyle change that really is required. (I'm assuming that any physical condition that may be contributing to weight gain has already been ruled out.)

Have you checked at school to see if it offers any nutrition/diet/fitness counselling...or at least some referrals to community-based programs geared to children and young adults?
Google "child obesity", "healthy children", "positive body image for teens", "raising self-confident kids" -- phrases like that.

You could also check the customer reviews at amazon.com, and then see if the library can get in whatever books look promising to you. A few that might fit the bill:
~ 'Mom, I feel fat!' by Sharon Hersh
~ 'You have to say I'm pretty, you're my mother' by Stephanie Pierson & Phyllis Cohen
~ 101 Ways to help your daughter love her body' by Brenda Lane Richardson and Elane Rehr

Of course, it is as important to get your mom involved and to start taking some responsibility for what her 9-year old daughter is eating and drinking. It can be difficult, but it is still a parent's role to look after their children's health and fitness needs.

Best of luck.

[CallMeKizzy]

Thank You so much. I will definantly look into these books. she loves to read. And my mom she usually doesn't buy alot of junk food, most of the food she buys is pretty healthy, a fruit snack here and there. its just natural and runs in the family.. but thank u sooo much, you were really helpful

[boundaryproblem]

I've seen a liposuction lawsuit where the procedure inadvertently punctured the intestines multiple multiple times. I can't imagine going for lypo - knowing that story.

I got rid of cable TV a few months ago and I don't miss it at all.

How about cancelling cable and starting a family walking program?

With a big present at Xmas if the walking program lasts more than 3 weeks....

Mind you with men in the house it is hard to convince them to cancel cable. Maybe the TV could be moved to a room just for dad? The american lifestyle of a TV in every room is so unhealthy.