Joey Bowers, 11, who weighs 170 pounds, waves his
money while yelling at passing vehicles hoping they will stop and try his
lemonade in San Bernardino California.
Eleven-year-old Joey Bowers
of San Bernardino stands 4 feet, 8 inches. He weighs 170 pounds. The eighth
grader typifies the No. 1 issue in America: obesity. He has battled his
weight problem, with the help of his parents, for years. It's a vicious cycle
for Joey, who has few friends. He loses a few pounds, then rapidly gains
them back and more. He suffers severe mood swings, high blood pressure and
has trouble focusing on school work. His low self-esteem is something his
doctors and parents struggle with daily. They worry that his weight will
destine Joey for long-term health problems and emotional instability.
