The problem of obesity, especially as it relates to children, has increased considerably in recent years.  According to the American Heart Association, among American children ages 2–19, the following are overweight or obese:

• For non-Hispanic whites, 31.9 percent of males and 29.5 percent of females.
• For non-Hispanic blacks, 30.8 percent of males and 39.2 percent of females. 
• For Mexican Americans, 40.8 percent of males and 35.0 percent of females. 

As one who has suffered from obesity for most of my childhood and adult life, I know the life long struggle--physically, mentally, financially, spiritually, emotionally and socially--excess weight brings.  The consequences of inaction are unfathomable and as a result, I must act now to ensure our youth will have the opportunity to live healthy and abundant lives.