I recently learned that one of the 300 souls that participated in our September Walk against eating disorders lost her life due to complications of anorexia in December. She was 17.
Why did she die? Her passing is a grim reminder that 15- 20% of those diagnosed with anorexia will die — either directly from the affects of starvation or from suicide brought on by the despair of the illness. While we may be able to see the affects of anorexia on the body , we cannot always see the despair, anxiety and depression that underlines the condition. It is heartbreaking.
Why am I talking about this? The young woman’s mentor and teacher reached out to me because of my connection with NEDA. She wants to DO something to honor the young woman’s memory and to raise awareness in her community. She is translating her grief into activism. Some of the most dedicated eating disorder activists are those that have lost someone close to them.
What does this mean to me? It’s time to re-ignite my recently dormant inner-fire. It’s time to look at activities for Eating Disorder Awareness week (end of February); It’s time to convene the 2016 Madison NEDA Walk committee.
What does this mean to the NEDA walk? We are having our organizational kick-off in a couple weeks. We will honor the young woman’s memory and do everything in our power to prevent losing another walker. From any city. Ever again.
What does this mean for you? To all of my readers (I know there’s at least three of you): Please consider registering for the Minneapolis NEDA Walk in February Mpls NEDA Walk link… or to donate to the walk via my page: Donate here. Learn more about How your NEDA donations help. If you can’t go to Minneapolis — Stay tuned for more information about local events associated with Eating Disorder awareness week.
Be well my friends.