I'm fat

I haven't posted in forever because nursing school has consumed my life. But this morning, an insensitive comment on Facebook regarding the death of actor James Gandolfini compelled me to begin writing the following post.  Please note that this is a topic that I've had on my mind for quite a while and is not directed at any specific individual:

Fat people.....

•    park closest to the store because they're lazy
•    use the scooter in the store because they're lazy
•    are going to die from a heart attack because they are fat
•    don't like to exercise

Fat jokes and judgements.  Even to celebrities or strangers.  Ever think that it may upset people around you that you care about?  As someone who has struggled, and even now 90 lbs lighter, still struggles with her weight, it hurts me when people make these cruel comments.  In my eyes, you might as well be saying them about me.  It comes from acquaintances on Facebook but it's also come from friends and family. 

I still see myself as fat.  I know a lot of people who have struggled with their weight in the past still see themselves as fat.  So I'm willing to bet this is a common occurrence. Be kind and considerate and choose your words wisely.  Your joke or judgement on some celebrity or complete stranger may hurt someone you care about.  While your intentions may be to be funny or even to just pass judgement and you think it's okay because it's not anyone you care about, this topic hits home to millions of people who currently struggle or have struggled with there weight in the past. 

Everyone has a story and you don't always know what it is.  An overweight woman at the supermarket using a scooter could have a chronic lung disease.  An overweight man who parks close could be doing himself a favor because its about to rain.  Thin and fit people die from heart attacks too.  Obesity can be caused by thyroid problems, depression, and so much more.  So the bottom line is, please stop judging people. 

Thank you.