WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - Too many people today suffer from eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. Both crippling diseases, a new non-profit organization in the Wilmington area is reaching out to help those who suffer in silence.
The Carolina chapter of Project HEAL, which stands for "Help to eat, accept and live," has a new executive director. Heather Purdin, known by many in the area from the popular band Selah Dubb, brought the organization to Wilmington.
She says that the negative impacts of eating disorders can come in many forms."If you are obsessing about your body, or food, or worrying about it more than you feel is healthy…then it's time to look into that," said Purdin.
With her volunteers, Purdin's goal is to raise scholarship funds for people who need treatment and to reduce society's obsession with body image. She created a space that includes yoga, art, books and most importantly, a safe place where people can simply talk.
While eating disorders are common, talking about them out loud is not. However, Purdin says that she has been working to change that and has seen beneficial results.
"…That's been the most amazing thing, how many people have told me their stories," she said. "Once you break the ice, the stories come out and those stories are what heal people."
With the support of a group and the local community, those who suffered will get a chance to live their lives to the fullest.
All are welcome to support Project HEAL Friday night at 7 p.m. The group is holding its Operation Beautiful benefit concert at The Soapbox. There will be live music, dancing, art, prizes and dessert.
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Project HEAL aims to help heal women through activities such as yoga, talking and reading.
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