Preston woman calls for more support for eating disorders
Laura Sylvester was diagnosed in 2009 and was in out out of hospital for 10 years
A Preston woman is sharing her experience of eating disorders and is calling for an upheaval of how those living with conditions are treated.
Laura Sylvester received a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa in 2009 aged 18. Her condition was so severe that she had to undergo a four-month hospitalization, marking the beginning of what she describes as an incredibly tumultuous journey.
As time passed, Laura's health deteriorated. Eventually, she found herself hospitalized in London for an extended period of five months.
Although Laura describes this period as arduous, she was discharged on positive terms and subsequently referred to receive outpatient treatment back in Preston.
Laura is sharing her story after long-standing sports presenter Jeff Stelling, known for his role on Soccer Saturday, was overcome with emotion during his second-to-last show this weekend.
Stelling shed light on the perils of eating disorders and the lack of understanding surrounding this condition.
In his heartfelt address, Stelling said:
"This is a sensitive topic, given that it's my penultimate show. I want to make sure I convey my final message accurately."
Stelling emphasized the alarming fact that more individuals lose their lives to eating disorders than any other mental illness annually. He also condemned what he calls the government's inadequate awareness and funding, deeming it a national disgrace.
Stelling passionately continued:
"Sadly, up to 20 percent of all eating disorder cases result in death, perpetuating this vicious cycle." "In 2023, eating disorders should not be silently swept under the rug. No one should lose their life to an eating disorder. We must take immediate action and provide assistance to those in need."
You can find more help about eating disorders here If you think you need support you can contact Beat, the eating disorder charity