Childhood obesity can lead to social, health problems

YOUNGSTOWN — Childhood obesity can be socially heartbreaking, especially for an overweight teen, and a precursor of myriad future health problems.

“From a social perspective, cyber and in-person bullying because you are different or overweight – if you are the target, if you are the last one picked for the team – can cause a kid to shut down, even cause suicide,” said Melody Case, Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley wellness and youth fitness specialist.

A slim, trim mother of three, Case said she was very overweight in high school.

“When I see a kid who is overweight, it tugs at my heart. I know how it feels. I understand,” said Case, who decided to change her body and her image of herself, her self-esteem, and has for 20 years religiously exercised six days a week and carefully watched her diet.

“It’s hard to change your lifestyle. But it’s so important to me. I don’t ever want to feel that way again,” said Case, a 1996 graduate of Chaney High School and a 2011 graduate of Youngstown State University.

Because of her personal experience, Case said she wants to help children, adolescents and adults feel good about themselves.

For the complete story, read Tuesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com