happy halloween

Woman To Hand Out Obesity Letters Instead Of Candy

October 30, 2013

Childhood Obesity Controversy

A Fargo-Moorhead, ND woman is taking on childhood obesity in a very controversial and what some say is an inappropriate way.   The woman, known only as Cheryl, called a Y-94 radio show to announce that she will be handing out letters instead of candy to trick-or-treaters whom she feels are obese or are headed that way.

"I just want to send a message to the parents of kids that are really overweight... I think it's just really irresponsible of parents to send them out looking for free candy just cause all the other kids are doing it," she told the radio audience.

Cheryl emailed a copy of the letter that she plans to hand out Halloween evening and the letter has been circulating on social media websites causing many angry comments to be posted.

"Happy Halloween! Happy Holidays Neighbor!" is the initial greeting. That's nice enough huh?  But it goes downhill from there:

"You are probably wondering why your child has this note; have you ever heard the saying, “It takes a village to raise a child”? I am disappointed in “the village” of Fargo Moorhead, West Fargo.

Your child is, in my opinion, moderately obese and should not be consuming sugar and treats to the extent of some children this Halloween season.

My hope is that you will step up as a parent and ration candy this Halloween and not allow your child to continue these unhealthy eating habits.  Thank you."

In an interview with Valleynewslive.com, DSU Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychology Dr. Katie Gordon who studies eating disorders says that the letter might be more hurtful than helpful.

"It's just that kind of thing that for some kids, if they're vulnerable, might trigger major problems," she says.As for me in posting this article...I am betting that Cheryl will spend the day after Halloween cleaning up her property due t

 What are your thoughts about this woman's controversial Halloween trick?