Today we’d like to introduce you to Dana M. Rosser.
Dana, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I fell in love and married a 460 lb. southern gentleman (Dr. James “Butch” Rosser Jr) on Dec. 9, 1995. I loved him with everything I had, but I wasn’t prepared for the unique challenges and discrimination that this cruel world had to offer because he was morbidly obese. I was even accused of being a “gold-digger” because how could anyone find a 460 lb. man attractive? They said, “It had to be because he was a doctor… a surgeon none the less.” Most of the time, the emphasis and attention are put on the person that physically carries the weight, but little consideration is ever put on the supporter who’s often suffering silently and figuratively carrying the weight of worry, anxiety, and yes, even shame on their shoulders daily.
I am the author of “Thru Thick and Thin: Facing Obesity Thru the Eyes of a Loved One” and have a Tedtalk and have appeared on the Dr. Oz about dealing with this sensitive subject. I’m dedicated to educating people on how to support a loved one’s challenge with obesity. I take the unique vantage point of offering comfort and understanding from the often over looked spousal/family members perspective.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
My art is my book “Thru Thick and Thin: Facing Obesity Thru the Eyes of a Loved One.” I wrote this book because about 17 years ago, I was looking for a book to help me through my challenges with my morbidly obese spouse. There was little to nothing available. Toni Morrison once said that “If there’s a book you want to read and it hasn’t been written, then you must write it,” so that’s what I did.
My book supports the supporter. Tools on how to have a loving conversation with your loved one about their weight, stories of others facing the same challenges, and tips on how to take care of yourself while caring for your loved one.
Do you think conditions are generally improving for artists? What more can cities and communities do to improve conditions for artists?
With regards to authors, I feel like it’s become easier to write a book. There are all kinds of websites and tools to empower inspiring authors to self-publish. One cool idea is to encourage coffee shops to host book clubs, book signings and readings for local authors.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
You can purchase my book on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Thru-Thick-Thin-Dana-Rosser/dp/1498446000/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.facingobesity.com
- Phone: 203-530-6903
- Twitter: @facingobesity
Image Credit:
Head shot credit – Stacy Pierce
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
Cynthia Forney
October 20, 2018 at 1:50 pm
I am so proud of my friend, Dana Mitchell Rosser. Seeing your dream come full circle is a beautiful thing! I forever wish you the best!