Mom Fears DCF Will Take 400-Pound Son
13-Year-Old Orlando Boy Refuses To Take Medicine, Mother Says
POSTED: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
UPDATED: 2:59 pm EDT October 14,
2009
  Josiah Lewis. |
ORLANDO, Fla. -- An Orlando mother said on Tuesday that she's fearful the state will take custody of her 13-year-old 400-pound son after doctors called authorities about his condition. Doctors contacted the Department of Children and Families after Josiah Lewis missed a few appointments, saying his condition is life-threatening.The boy's mother, Brenda Lewis, said she's trying to help her son lose weight, but he refuses to take medicine and will not stop overeating."At 13, how can I make him? What do you want me to do?" Brenda Lewis said. "Because of his weight he has gained diabetes and has high blood pressure."DCF officials said the case is rare, but the department has launched an investigation. The agency does have the authority to remove an obese or anorexic child from a home if the child's medical condition is life-threatening.Brenda Lewis said her son does not take his health seriously, putting her in a difficult position."This is a serious matter. These people are going to come in my house and take my child and sign me over as unfit," Brenda Lewis said. "I don't know how you think about that, but I think very highly of that -- that's not right."DCF officials said they have provided support to the Lewis family, but added that the family has to cooperate with doctors or face the option of having Josiah Lewis being removed from the home."He didn't come with a manuscript or a guide. I (have) just been working my way through," Brenda Lewis said.South Carolina authorities recently placed a 555-pound 14-year-old boy in foster care despite his parents' claims that they were trying to help him.Watch Local 6 News for more on this story.
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