Should I do a Weight Loss TV Show???

 Obesity Help Forum, 

I have a young cousin who is morbidly obese. Because of her age surgery is not a viable option to manage her weight issue. 

Recently, the child's mother was approached by a cable television casting director who wants to feature her on a new documentary series about childhood obesity. 

The casting director says that if she is selected for the show she will be paired with expert nutritionists, trainers, and medical professionals free of charge. The show will follow her struggle to bring her weight down to a healthy level. 

I told my cousin's mother to get the casting director's email address and the website for the company she works for--just to make sure this is a legit opportunity. 

I checked out the website (www.tijuanaent.com), and it looks like her company has done similar shows for A&E and the Oprah Winfrey Network in the past. I'm probably going to email her for more info ([email protected]).

What do you guys think? Do you have any experience with shows like this? Any advice I can pass along to my cousin's mother. Thanks!

How old is your cousin? There was a guy on OH who had the surgery and I think he was like 14 or 15 but because he was so obese he was allowed to have the surgery. I don't know how I would feel about having my child on a show like that. It would certainly help her but I don't know if I would want my child on TV. These are very personal issues to be broadcast for the entire nation. It would just depend on the maturity level of the child. I hope you hear from someone who has had experience with this.

 My cousin is 9, and she is mature for her age. Sadly, I think this is because she has had to deal with so many adult level health and emotional issues stemming from her weight. 

I would do it.  A big part of maintaining after WLS is what goes on in our heads, so depending on EVERYTHING involved I think this could be a golden opportunity for this young person to learn.  It's worth a shot!

Ms Sehll

I thought you was asking for your self,. but your not, you asking for some kid, but you dont tell us about her. 
Since you are asking, my answer is NO!  When I was 12 my mom and dad sent me to "fat camp" That was connect to school so everyone knew. I hated that. I didn't want to go back to schoo. After a few weeks of hating life, I was able to transfer to a new school.

 But that is my 2 cents.

L

I think the child should have a huge say in this decision. It's important that it be spelled out to her that her friends or people who know her or want to tease her might see the footage on tv.

If she wants to do it, I say let her do it... If she could be helped to make a change at such a young age, that would be a HUGE advantage to her...

I once stood in line for 5 hours for my shot to be on the Biggest Loser Show. I would have done it if they had chosen me. Looking back, I'm glad I didn't, but one thing about being obese is that it teaches you to stop taking chances so learning to take a chance is one part of healing from it, I THINK...

Huggles!!
~Sarah~