April 27, 2010 was designated as "Lobby Day" for the Eating Disorders Coalition. On Tuesday, approximately 100 people from 27 states ascended on Washington, D.C. to lobby their Congressmen and Senators to pass H.R. 1193, the F.R.E.E.D. (Federal Response to Eliminate Eating Disorders) Act.
F.R.E.E.D. was introduced into the House by Rep. Patrick Kennedy of Rhode Island on February 25, 2009. The Senate version of this bill was introduced on April 26, 2010 by Sen. Tom Harkin of Iowa. F.R.E.E.D. is a bill long dreamed of, and sought for because of the basic needs that continue to exist.
At this time, we continue to have gaps in coverage, a lack of practitioners trained in the treatment of eating disorders and a need more funding for eating disorders research. It is also imperative to study the effects of BMI testing in schools and develop methods to prevent eating disorders from occurring.
How you can help:
1. Visit the Eating Disorders Coalition at www.eatingdisorderscoalition.org and learn more about insurance reform and H.R. 1193, the F.R.E.E.D. Act.
2. Write a letter or email to your Representative urging them to support and co-sponsor H.R. 1193. Don't know who this is? Find out at www.house.gov
3. Contact your Senator urging them to support and co-sponsor S.3260, the F.R.E.E.D. Act. Don't know who your senators are? Find out at www.senate.gov.
4. Join the Family/Friends Action Council of the Eating Disorders Coalition and learn more about efforts going on to support you and make treatment a reality for everyone. No one should die of an eating disorder. No one should die due to lack of access to care.
Peace be with you.
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