9th Cir. Holds Diabetic Significantly Limited In Major Life Activity of Eating

Reversing a summary judgment, the 9th Circuit proves how fact intensive ADA cases are by its lengthy discussion of plaintiff's diabetes, which is classified as 'brittle' and which requires a strict monitoring of any food intake, often requiring her to test her blood sugar to ensure proper levels. Fraser v. Goodale (9th Cir. 9/8/03) [pdf]. Under these circumstances, the Court found that eating was a major life activity which was significantly limited. In an effort to ward off claims the Court specifically made clear it was not inviting those on a diet to complain that their major life activity of eating was threatened, but emphasized the unique circumstances of this case.