Last night, I gave an obesity and health talk at the Camas Public Library. Since it was my first time visiting the branch, I browsed around before I made my way upstairs to the room where I would speak. What a quaint, charming library.
The Camas Farmers Market was in full swing outside of the library, inside the library was buzzing with patrons, and I was pleasantly surprised to see posters advertising my event all over the place.
We had a nice crowd of folks that came out: Including a faithful blog and FB follower, Debby and a cycling buddy, Louise. The crowd was engaged and asked lots of thoughtful questions, which made for a great discussion.
Thanks to everyone who came out. An extra-special thanks to the director, David Zavartink and Linda Swenton Assistant Library Director for welcoming me and making the event run smoothly.
You know how I feel about libraries in general, but I really really like this library. I look forward to another program or two in the future.
Chrisetta Mosley
I am a product – and now a survivor – of childhood obesity. As a child, my family always told me that my extra weight was merely baby fat and I’d eventually grow out of it. I never did. Instead, my childhood is filled with memories of not being able to ride a bike, flattening its training wheels from being over the recommended weight, and avoiding P.E. classes by any means necessary. For years, I wore my fatness like a wounded soldier wears a Purple Heart - with pride. I owned the look. I dressed it up. I worked the room. There wasn't a skinny girl who intimidated me. I made sure my hair was laid just right. Nails polished. Outfits coordinated to the tee. Accessories to compliment every outfit. But everyone has a breaking point, and mine came in the spring of 2004 when I tipped the scale at nearly 400 pounds 388 to be exact. I was MISERABLE trapped inside of that body. I no longer wore my Purple Heart with pride. Rather, I was ashamed and frightened. Ashamed that I had allowed food to become my everything – frightened I would die because of it. Drastic times called for drastic measures... Today, I’m bound and determined to live a better, healthier, active lifestyle. I realize I’m no longer a passenger in my life, I’m the driver. I’m overcoming my inhibitions and I’m slowly but surely saying farewell to my old childhood nemesis, obesity. For once and for all, Farewell Fatso!