Mother Forced to Lock Fridge to Stop 238-Pound Son from Overeating Due to Rare Condition

A desperate mother has been forced to take extreme measures to prevent her 12-year-old son from overeating due to a rare genetic condition that causes insatiable hunger. The child, who weighs 238 pounds, suffers from Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS), a disorder that affects appetite regulation, leading to constant food cravings and rapid weight gain.

A Mother’s Heartbreaking Struggle

Sarah Thompson, a 39-year-old single mother from Ohio, has been battling an uphill fight against her son Jake’s uncontrollable eating habits since he was diagnosed with PWS at the age of three. Despite her best efforts to control his diet, Jake’s compulsive hunger has resulted in severe obesity, putting his health at serious risk.

“I never thought I would have to lock the fridge and pantry just to protect my own child from himself,” Sarah told reporters. “It’s heartbreaking to see him cry for food, but I know that if I give in, it could cost him his life.”

Understanding Prader-Willi Syndrome

Prader-Willi Syndrome is a complex genetic disorder that affects approximately one in 15,000 births. It is caused by a defect in chromosome 15, which impairs the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for regulating hunger and metabolism. Individuals with PWS experience an unrelenting drive to eat, leading to severe obesity if their food intake is not strictly controlled.

In addition to excessive hunger, people with PWS often struggle with developmental delays, behavioral problems, and a slow metabolism, making weight management particularly challenging. There is currently no cure for the condition, and treatment primarily focuses on dietary control, physical activity, and behavioral interventions.

A Life of Constant Vigilance

Sarah describes the daily struggles of managing Jake’s condition as “a full-time job.” Despite meal planning, portion control, and therapy, Jake’s hunger remains insatiable. He has been known to wake up in the middle of the night to search for food, forcing his mother to install locks on the fridge and pantry.

“I used to wake up and find empty wrappers hidden under his bed. He would sneak into the kitchen and eat anything he could find, even raw ingredients. I had no choice but to put padlocks on everything,” Sarah said.

Jake’s compulsive eating has led to severe health issues, including high blood pressure, joint pain, and early signs of type 2 diabetes. Doctors have warned that without drastic intervention, he could face life-threatening complications before reaching adulthood.

The Emotional Toll on the Family

Beyond the physical challenges, Prader-Willi Syndrome also takes an emotional toll on families. Sarah recounts the guilt and emotional exhaustion she feels every day as she tries to balance Jake’s needs with the harsh reality of his condition.

“He doesn’t understand why I have to say no. He thinks I’m being mean, and it breaks my heart. He gets frustrated, angry, and sometimes even violent when I refuse him food,” she admitted. “But I have to be strong for him.”

Jake’s condition also affects his social life. He struggles to interact with peers and is often excluded from birthday parties and school events where food is involved. “It’s hard explaining to him why he can’t have cake at a friend’s party or why he can’t eat as much as other kids,” Sarah said. “It’s an isolating experience for both of us.”

Medical and Community Support

Sarah has sought help from specialists, therapists, and support groups, but managing PWS remains a daily battle. Jake is currently undergoing behavioral therapy to help with impulse control, and his doctors have recommended a strict regimen of low-calorie, high-protein meals along with regular exercise.

Community support has played a vital role in Sarah’s journey. Local charities have helped provide specialized nutrition plans, and online support groups have given her a network of other parents facing similar struggles.

Dr. Emily Carter, a pediatric endocrinologist specializing in genetic disorders, explains the importance of awareness and early intervention. “Parents of children with Prader-Willi Syndrome must work closely with medical professionals to establish strict routines. It’s not just about diet—it’s about behavior modification, structured schedules, and constant supervision,” she said.

A Mother’s Hope for the Future

Despite the daily hardships, Sarah remains hopeful about Jake’s future. She dreams of advancements in medical research that could one day offer better treatment options for children with PWS.

“I just want my son to live a healthy and happy life,” she said. “I will do whatever it takes to keep him safe, even if it means being the ‘mean mom’ who locks the fridge.”

Sarah hopes that sharing her story will spread awareness about Prader-Willi Syndrome and encourage more research into effective treatments. She also wants to remind other parents going through similar struggles that they are not alone.

For now, she continues her relentless battle, knowing that every locked door and every difficult “no” is an act of love and protection for her son.

Raising Awareness

Prader-Willi Syndrome remains a little-known condition, and many families struggle in silence. Advocacy groups like the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (PWSA) provide resources, education, and support for affected families. Sarah encourages others to learn about the disorder and support initiatives that fund research for better treatment options.

As Jake’s journey continues, Sarah remains steadfast in her mission to give her son the best life possible, even if it means fighting an invisible battle every day.