I am in the process of writing a new book, and I just wrote a chapter yesterday about spreading the message of recovery to those who still struggle. I wrote this chapter, because many of you guys have emailed:
“I am recovered now, and I want to help other people with eating disorders? How can I get more involved?”
In my new book, I talk about the fact that we can’t give away what we don’t have. In other words, the best way for us to help others is first to help ourselves. Before we venture out into this new territory of spreading the message, we should talk things over with our therapist and make sure that we are strong in our own recovery. When we are ready, giving back can be quite a gift.
I want to tell you about a way to give back. Many of you know that I am on the Ambassador Council for the National Eating Disorders Association. I am a NEDA Ambassador, because I truly believe in the work that they do. I am very excited about the 1st Annual NEDA Walk during NEDAwareness Week 2009. To get the NEDA Walk started off on the right foot (no pun intended), we need your help to coordinate walks in your community. Organizing a walk is easy and fun with NEDA. I encourage you to check out the NEDA website and get involved!
Best,
Jenni
P.S. For more details on when to share your recovery story, visit a previous post from October 10, 2007.
I am looking forward to reading your next book whenever it comes out. That is something that I want to do. I am a social work major and want to specialize in eating disorders. I have made it five weeks (which isn't very long), but hopefully I can maintain this progress and hopefully one day help others.
Posted by: Lisa | December 10, 2008 at 05:33 AM
"In my new book, I talk about the fact that we can’t give away what we don’t have. In other words, the best way for us to help others is first to help ourselves."
I need to realize this. I tend to be VERY hypocritical and I actually found that the more I try to help others, the more indwelled in my own disease I become. It's been a long 14 years and I really just hope one day I can stop these relapses that happen all too often and live as freely and happily as you seem to be.
Thank you for always being that spark of hope I need <3
Posted by: kristin leigh | December 12, 2008 at 05:06 AM
Jenni, I just attended the San Francisco NEDA walk yesterday...what an event. It was so amazing and touching and emotional and wonderful. I encourage anyone and everyone to find one (or organize one!) to attend!
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