In September 2019, I realized I would miss the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA) Walk in Birmingham due to circumstances outside of my control. At first, I was frustrated.

This walk is so important to me as a time of community, vulnerability, and healing. But I decided – with the encouragement of some friends – to bring NEDA to Auburn. I put my mind to it and decided not to stop until I was heard. 

Eating disorders run rampant on college campuses, and Auburn is no exception. Over 30 million Americans will suffer from this life-threatening, bio-social illness at some point in their lives. 

Eating disorders do not discriminate. They affect people regardless of age, body type, gender, race, or upbringing. Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness.

It was the knowledge that people all across campus are struggling and the idea that I could do something to help them that motivated me to contact NEDA. I asked everyone I knew, including friends from high school and family members, to send persuasive emails to NEDA begging this organization to bring awareness, hope, and healing to Auburn University. 

And NEDA listened. 

On October 15, 2019, I received an email from Abbigail Hickey, an on-campus dietician in Auburn University’s Health Promotion and Wellness Services, confirming that NEDA had heard when we joined voices and that the walk was officially scheduled for February 29, 2020. I could hardly stay calm, and I immediately began texting everyone I know. Within a couple weeks, the link to register was up on the website, and it began to feel real. Auburn would host its first-ever awareness walk for eating disorders. 

 NEDA strives to help those affected by eating disorders by providing free screenings, a helpline, and eating disorder education and support. NEDA uses their walks as an opportunity to celebrate recovery and encourage conversation about eating disorders. To learn more about NEDA or to register for the walk, click here.

To me, this walk has been a reminder that we are stronger when we stand together. Joining voices means we can be heard. Being free to share my story and spread awareness has been crucial to my own recovery. You can access my personal NEDA page here.

If you are struggling, reach out to Student Counseling Services or the Health Promotion and Wellness team. I am forever grateful to my fearless friends and family for supporting me through my recovery journey. Thank you so much for your endless care and support for me and my mission to help those struggling around me! And remember that you, too, deserve to take up space.

Be well, Auburn.

Photography: Miranda W.