500 lb Man Denied Family Adoption
|
Posted by Tracy Rose Aug 18, 2007 |
In a recent Missouri hearing, Gary Stocklaufer and his wife Cynthia were denied the right to adopt Gary’s 3-month-old cousin. While courts generally like to see children placed with family members whenever possible, the judge ruled that Gary was not fit to adopt because he weighs 500 pounds.
The question now is whether the decision is considered weight discrimination or if there is a valid concern for the long-term care of the baby. Gary is a successful father for his now 7-year-old adopted son. He doesn’t let his weight interfere with his relationship with him. He is also showing amazing effort at losing weight in order to adopt the baby. He has already lost 35 pounds and is going to have gastric bypass surgery to further reduce his weight.
While obesity is rarely the sole reason for not allowing a family adoption, it is possible and legal since weight discrimination is not protected like other forms of discrimination.
The court’s concern is for the long-term care of the child. Obesity carries many risks, including early death. Weight loss surgery is equally as risky. Placing the baby in a home he will be able to stay and grow in is ideal. The other concern is that obese parents are poor role models for their children. Authorities think kids will learn unhealthy habits from obese parents.
The Stocklaufer’s have filed a motion for a new hearing and intend to fight for their right to adopt this baby they know they can love and care for.
References: