Tuesday, March 22, 2011

The Skinny: Fighting a Disorder


A few weeks ago, I was made aware of National Eating Disorder Awareness Week.  Of course, I’m writing about it a little late, but it is still imperative to create awareness and talk about it, despite my timing.

More people die from eating disorders than any other mental illness. Eleven million people suffer from Anorexia and Bulimia, and millions more suffer from binging and purging. Those are crazy statistics.  And the number seems to be growing with girls (and boys) seeing these unattainable, airbrushed images splashed across every media outlet.

Like most other girls, I have dealt with body image issues and insecurities, but I've never been able to understand what was going on inside someone's head who suffered from an eating disorder.  I could not comprehend how they saw a “fat” person when the rest of the world saw skinny. But as I've learned, its more than about just food.

I recently started reading Elizabeth Ann’s (or EA as I’ve known her)  blog, Mo(u)rning Restoration .  She opens up about her struggle with an eating disorder and describes the dark disorder that controlled her for so long. Through her writing, she takes the reader inside her mind and describes the power and constant battle going on inside of her.  Read it. Follow her. It’s amazing. She’s amazing.

First let me tell you a little bit about how I know  EA…..

Hondo 2009 (L-R Me, EA & Taylor)

I met EA when I went on a mission trip to Honduras in 2009, and I’ve always seen her as a person who was beautiful inside and out.  I was amazed by her natural beauty, but more amazed by the way the she loved on the women and children in Honduras.  You could see her love for the Lord and for people pour out of her when she placed her hands on people, and just loved on them and prayed over them.

I haven't seen EA in a couple of years, but stumbled upon her blog a few months ago. I started reading it and with each paragraph became more engrossed with each passing word.  I had no idea she suffered from an eating disorder. 

Not only does she share her past struggles, but she shares her amazing progress in recovery as well.  I look forward to reading more from her! 

Thank you, EA, for your ability to open up and share with the world about your disorder.  You show incredible strength and incredible faith in the Lord.  I, as well as many others, can look to you by example and know that we can all overcome our struggles-no matter how big or little.