MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Recovery Support' source. Mon, 17 Nov 2008 22:53:45 +0100 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/450237519/a-new-book-going-hungry-edited-by-kate-taylor.html Hi everyone! My colleague, Kate Taylor, has a great new book out. I highly encourage you to read Going Hungry (www.GoingHungry.com), which is an anthology of 19 essays written by eating disorder survivors. One of the essayists is Latria Graham, who you might have read about in my article in the October issue of CosmoGIRL! Kate, Latria, and the other writers have an important message for everyone. This book is a must-read! For more information and/or to buy the book, visit http://www.gurze.com/searchproducts.cfm.Best,Jenni (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1952423 Tue, 11 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1952423 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/443387910/are-you-truly-alive.html Last night, I attended an Election Day party at my friend’s house. Some people there were Democrats, some Republicans, and some neither. Even though we had our differences, one thing was for sure: We were all together witnessing an event that will go down in the history books. If I ever decide to have kids, the 2008 Presidential Election will be something that I will tell them about. Thanks to being recovered, I will be able to talk about the event in an authentic, real way. Sadly, I can’t remember much about other historical events that I have lived through. I was so sick with my eating disorder that I was not truly present in this world. I was trapped inside of my head with all of my troubles (real and make-believe) and my eating disorder. I do not remember many specifics during that... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1939775 Wed, 05 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1939775 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/412950243/mental-health-p.html Hi! Many of you know that I recently spoke in Washington, D.C. at a Congressional Briefing held by the Eating Disorders Coalition (EDC). For years, the EDC has worked hard in D.C. on behalf of eating disorders. I am thrilled to post this update from the Executive Director of the EDC, David Jaffe. Best, Jenni P.S. I am headed to Hershey, PA, and State College, PA, right now for several presentations. Please visit my website (http://www.lifewithouted.com/calendar.php) and see me if you can! October 3, 2008 The EDC applauds Congress for their commitment to eliminating discrimination in health care coverage against people suffering from mental disorders.  After tireless negotiations between differing House and Senate versions, both chambers came together to pass mental health parity ... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1856479 Mon, 06 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1856479 http://www.eatingdisordersblogs.com/recovery/2008/09/check-out-woman.html Hi! A recent interview I did with Kendra Pinder is now online at Woman's Zone. Please check it out, along with other interviews with various guests talking about topics from cancer to menopause to fashion. You will hear from some amazing women from across the globe who will inspire and encourage you! Also, check out the Woman's Zone Forum. Let us know what you think! Best, Jenni (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1809975 Tue, 02 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1809975 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/381387100/check-out-woman.html Hi! A recent interview I did with Kendra Pinder is now online at Woman's Zone. Please check it out, along with other interviews with various guests talking about topics from cancer to menopause to fashion. You will hear from some amazing women from across the globe who will inspire and encourage you! Also, check out the Woman's Zone Forum. Let us know what you think! Best, Jenni (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1760235 Tue, 02 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1760235 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/380484148/join-me-in-wash.html Hi guys! I hope your holiday weekend has been great. I have had a blast...mountain biking, hearing great live music (I live in Music City, U.S.A.!), and hanging out with friends. If you live in or around Washington, D.C., please check out the info posted below. I would love to meet you in person! Best, JenniWednesday, September  10th, 2008Washington, D.C.Eating Disorders Coalition (www.eatingdisorderscoalition.org) eventsAmerica the Beautiful: How America's Obsession with Beauty Contributes to Eating Disorders 2:30 PM - 4 PM BriefingUnited States Capitol Room H-137Hosted by Congressman Jim Ramstad (R-MN)Panel of Speakers includes Filmmaker Darryl Roberts, Jenni Schaefer and others FREE5 PM - 6:30 PM Reception720 7th Street NW, Suite 300Price: $40 Junior Tickets, $70 Regular Ticke... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1750436 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1750436 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/363066194/recovered-vs-in.html Hi! Okay, so I know that I have taken a long time to get back with you regarding the topic of "Recovered" vs. "In Recovery." (Sorry about that!) I think the article I just finished writing below will explain why. Enjoy! And, as always, please let me know your thoughts! Best, Jenni“Recovered” vs. “In Recovery” The truth about eating disordersby Jenni Schaefer “Can you ever be fully recovered from an eating disorder or are you always in recovery?” People often ask me this question. I have tried to come up with the perfect answer --- one that would make everyone happy and that would fit into every recovery model. Since there is no perfect answer to this question, this article has been on hold for months. I was talking with my therapist about it recent... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1701371 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1701371 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/356720272/aimee-lius-new.html Hi everyone! I hope you are enjoying your summer. I just received an email from Eating Disorder Hope with the following announcement. I thought some of you guys might want to share your story. Check it out! Jenni P.S. If you have not read Aimee's book, Gaining, check it out, too! --- AED Advisory Board member and author, Aimee Liu, has generously offered to write a follow-up to her popular book Gaining: The Truth About Life After Eating Disorders as a fundraiser for the AED. The follow-up book will feature letters from readers of Gaining, and others, who describe their experience recovering from eating disorders. The book will also include commentary provided by Aimee and by AED experts . The proceeds from this volume will be donated to the AED to fund key initiat... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1683492 Tue, 05 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1683492 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/344612473/neda-conference.html I hope to see you in Austin for the National Eating Disorders Association's conference. I am excited that the conference is in my native state this year. Come out and join me in Texas! Please see details below. Best, Jenni Break the Silence:  Tools for Help, Hope and HealingSeptember 18-20, 2008  Renaissance Austin Hotel, Austin, Texas Find out more and register online at www.myneda.org Plan to attend the one national conference on eating disorders where families learn from each other and from the nation's leading treatment experts. This year's conference promises to be an especially valuable one for families both new to eating disorders as well as those who have been battling eating disorders for quite some time, and for treatment providers.  With more than 30 sessio... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1652611 Thu, 24 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1652611 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/343598165/medicare-bill-w.html Hi! Thanks to everyone who helped to advocate for better mental health coverage on July 9th. The Eating Disorders Coalition (EDC) just sent out an action alert with an update. I thought some of you guys might want to read it below. Together we ARE making a difference. Yay! Best,JenniEDC News Alert HR.6331, The Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act, passed last week after Congress had enough votes to override president Bush’s veto.    The Senate voted to override the President 70-26 and the House vote was 383-41. This important bill includes a provision to provide for mental health parity for outpatient services in Medicare.  The bill makes long overdue improvements to Medicare by providing improved access to preventive services and parity in coverage fo... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1649343 Wed, 23 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1649343 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/336523432/call-for-privat.html Hi! Are you a therapist in the eating disorder field? If so, I posted some information below about job openings at Juno House in Calgary. Check it out!!! Have a great night! I am headed to two musical events tonight. Gotta love living in Music City, U.S.A.! Best, JenniJuno House has an opening for two  full time or four one-half time therapists who are interested in working within a team approach in a private practice setting.  Qualifications:  Masters or PhD  level,  Counselling/Clinical Psychology or Clinical Social Work with 5 years clinical/counselling experience.  Experience working with teenage girls and their families is preferable.  Training in EMDR and attachment theory an asset. Juno House will begin operation on July 1, 2008 as a centre tha... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1625816 Tue, 15 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1625816 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/330406832/we-need-your-he.html We need YOUR help! Please read the letter below sent to members of the Academy For Eating Disorders (AED). Help us advocate for mental health parity for eating disorders on Wednesday, July 9th. This is your chance to make a difference! Best, JenniDear US AED Members, National Call-in Day for Mental Health Parity Wednesday July 9th! Your help is urgently needed to help pass Mental Health Parity this session! The US House of Representatives and the Senate negotiators have reached a final agreement on all the remaining mental health and addiction parity issues. However, approximately $4 billion over 10 years in offsets is needed to pay for the bill and must be found before parity can be brought to the floor in both chambers for final passage. Once an offset has been found, there is com... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1596888 Tue, 08 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1596888 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/325896934/join-me-in-texa.html I am headed to Texas to celebrate the 4th of July with my family. I am excited to meet my newborn nephew, Aiden! On July 7th, I will be speaking at the Texas Freedom House in Kerrville. Please join me:Monday, July 7th Kerrville, Texas Texas Freedom House (108 West Creek Road) 10:30 AM Presentation and Book Signing --- Open to the Public! For more information, call 830-377-6537 or email info@texasfreedomhouse.com Happy 4th of July! Best, Jenni (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1575656 Thu, 03 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1575656 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/321517927/stupid-boy.html If you live in Nashville, I hope you attend the benefit for the Eating Disorders Coalition of Tennessee (EDCT) on June 30th at 3rd and Lindsley (see details below). I will be singing one song! One of the organizers of the benefit is my good friend, Brittany MacNealy. Recently, she shared her interpretation of the hit song, "Stupid Boy" (Berg/Bryant/Buxton), with me. I wanted to share it with you below. Best, Jenni------ Many people have heard Keith Urban's hit single "Stupid Boy".  What you might not know is that eating disorder survivor and EDCT Celebrity Spokesperson Sarah Buxton co-wrote the song.  Because of the title of the song, one would think it was a male bashing tune. But if you really listen to the message, it is not.  Whether the "Stu... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1551980 Fri, 27 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1551980 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/313930576/do-something-ni.html Today I am taking a private yoga/meditation lesson from my friend, Waller McInnes. I can’t wait to relax and connect with my body in a healthy way. What are you doing for yourself today? Here is a post that I love from Waller’s blog:I spent so many years abusing my body, trying to look perfect, to work out more than anyone I knew, to look good for everyone on the outside, in fear they may get to know my insides. I am so extremely grateful for getting able to experience my life from the inside out. I get to choose who I am around, and how much of me they get to know. I get to explore nourishing my body and exercising my mind. I get to dance and laugh and pray and sing and yell and feel radiant and alive each and every day. I get to listen to no one but me tell me how I need to... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1526837 Tue, 17 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1526837 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/311852747/join-us-in-nash.html I am excited about participating in an upcoming event on Monday, June 30th, with the Eating Disorders Coalition of Tennessee (EDCT)! The EDCT is holding a benefit at 3rd and Lindsley in Nashville, TN. At the benefit, I will speak briefly, sing a song, and sign books. Proceeds from the book signing benefit the EDCT. I hope to see you there! Here are the details:Monday, June 30th, 2008 Nashville, TN Songwriters in the Round with Sarah Buxton, Rivers Rutherford, and Dave Berg with special guests, Dylan Altman, Matt Warren, Jenni Schaefer and Caroline Mitchell Lusk 3rd and Lindsley 6:30 PM - 11 PM $10 at the door For more information, contact Brittany MacNealy at bmacnealy@edct.net or (615) 831-9838. (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1518983 Sat, 14 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1518983 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/306102480/neda-has-a-new.html If you haven’t already, I highly encourage you to check out the National Eating Disorders Association’s new website! And be sure to check out the “Stories of Hope” page. I am honored to have a story on that page. I am also honored that NEDA just named me to their Ambassador Council. You can read the press release about that in NEDA’s “Press Room.” Please help spread the word about the new website. NEDA is an amazing organization, and I want everyone to know about it! (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1500375 Fri, 06 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1500375 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/294290741/guys-have-eatin.html In my work, I meet many passionate people. Most recently, I e-met Patrick Bergstrom. He has an important message for all of us: We Are Different!By Patrick Bergstrom Who am I, and do I have a real purpose on this earth? I believe these are two questions that people spend most of their lives trying to answer and never really find a personal answer to these questions. I am 25 years old and I believe I have found my personal answers to both of these questions. I guess I should start by first introducing myself. My name is Patrick Bergstrom and I am recovering from a four-year battle with a horrifying eating disorder. One more thing – did I mention that I was a male? I guess I just assumed you would have recognized that by my first name. My name is Patrick, and yes I am a men’s former co... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1454848 Tue, 20 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1454848 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/287022643/do-you-need-a-m.html You guys know how much I believe in the power of support in recovery. I could not have recovered without my friends and family, therapist, doctors, and other members of my support team. My friend, Shannon Cutts, has started a wonderful program to help people find the support they need. Please read about MentorConnect below! Best, Jenni MentorConnect Link: http://www.key-to-life.com/MentorConnect.htm Mentors: Are you in sustained recovery (at least one year largely free from symptoms of disordered eating behaviors) and desiring to grow in your own recovery by sharing your strength, experience and hope with someone coming up behind you on the path to recovery? Do Mentees: Are you seeking an eating disorders mentor - someone who has stood in your shoes and can help ... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1432837 Fri, 09 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1432837 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/281212786/do-you-struggle.html A new study out from Rhode Island Hospital and Brown University found that --- not surprising to anyone familiar with eating disorders --- that most eating disorder diagnoses are for ED-NOS (eating disorder not otherwise specified), not anorexia or bulimia. I am looking for participants to share their experience with having ED-NOS for an upcoming story in a national magazine.Participants must fit the following criteria: 1.)  Female, age 21 or under 2.)  Diagnosed with ED-NOS (Please note specific type in #3 below.) 3.)  Meet all of the criteria for anorexia nervosa except --- despite substantial weight loss ---  your current weight is within the normal range. 4.) Willing to have photo appear in magazine I will interview participants over the phone. If you or someon... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1411862 Wed, 30 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1411862 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/279611598/i-am-in-texas.html I am excited to be in my home state of Texas. If you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, please visit me tomorrow night. Here are details about a cool event:Tuesday, April 29th, 2008 Denton, TX University of North Texas, The Gateway Center, 801 North Texas Boulevard, Denton, TX 76203 (One block from I-35E) 7:00 PM Presentation 8:00 to 8:30 PM Book signing For more information, please contact Melanie Aldis at maldis@centerforchange.com Sponsored by Center for Change (www.centerforchange.com) and Chrysalis Educational Foundation (www.fightingdisorder.com); Benefiting the Chrysalis Educational Foundation (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1404249 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1404249 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/270662890/recovered-vs-in.html There is often a debate in the eating disorder field about what recovery means for people struggling with eating disorders. Can people be “recovered” or will they always be “in recovery?” Or are both terms accurate? I have heard clinicians debate this topic at professional conferences. Today I thought I would ask you what you think. Please post a comment and let me know. I will soon post my thoughts as well. Best, Jenni (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1373884 Tue, 15 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1373884 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/263594148/i-have-a-dream.html My friend and colleague, Shannon Cutts, has a dream. I think her dream is one that we all share. Here is a message from Shannon: The petition: http://www.key-to-life.com/Petition.htm The purpose: The 'I Have A Dream of a World FREE from Eating Disorders' Petition of Hope is designed to give anyone affected by eating disorders a forum to share with members of Congress why achieving mental health parity for treatment is important to them. For every 1,000 names collected, a copy of the list will be forwarded to The Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy & Action, whose mission is to advance federal recognition of eating disorders as a public health priority. The story behind the petition: The idea began to take shape after a simple trip to the grocery store. I notice... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1349920 Thu, 03 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1349920 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/260447590/hope.html Today I had the opportunity to spend time with the wonderful family of my friend who recently died from anorexia. Her memorial service was this morning in her hometown. Many tears fell. Despite the tears, the service was really a celebration of life. One word heard throughout the service was: hope. In her life, my friend often talked about the importance of hope. She held onto hope and never quit trying. She regularly asked me to share the message of hope with people I meet in my travels. In her memory, I want to share my hope with you: People do FULLY recover from eating disorders. Full recovery takes full commitment. Full commitment means 100 percent, not 99 percent. To recover, we cannot even hold on to 1 percent of Ed. We have to let go of it all. Letting go ultimately ... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1336913 Sat, 29 Mar 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1336913 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/254445296/weigh-in-wednes.html I recently began receiving “Weigh-In Wednesday” inspirational emails from the Eating Disorders Coalition of Tennessee (EDCT) (www.edct.net). I love these messages so much that I wanted to share one with you. A message from Shelli Yoder, Executive Director of the EDCT: My three year old daughter loves Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.  I'm intrigued by her consistent and enthusiastic decision to choose this slow moving, puppet loving, cardigan donning old guy over the brightly colored, fast paced, action packed cartoons of today. Mister Rogers trumps Dora?  Of course I love it.  Her preference for this 40 year old classic is one of the few things I can share with her from my own childhood. Pretty impressive that there is any show for "kids these days" that still... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1314489 Wed, 19 Mar 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1314489 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/252740188/in-my-travels-i.html In my travels, I meet lots of amazing people. I meet women and men who are brave enough to face their inner demons. Recently, I met McKenzie Tabor. At a candlelight vigil for eating disorder victims, McKenzie read aloud a poem that she wrote about her personal struggle with anorexia/bulimia. I was deeply moved and asked her if I could share it with you. She said, “Yes!” Please read her poem below. She wrote the original version of this poem during her junior year of college, which was about one and half years before she began treatment. Thanks for sharing your words with us, McKenzie! Best, Jenni I wish they knew….by McKenzie Tabor I wish they knew how often I think of my body, my flab and even food,When only fasting, purging or working out can bring calm on a ... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1306596 Sun, 16 Mar 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1306596 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/248639497/for-my-friend.html When I speak to a group, I often site the statistic: Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric illness. I just came face to face with how true that fact is. The statistics are real. They are not just numbers. All of the numbers represent real people with real families. Today I found out that a dear friend passed away from her eating disorder. She was a bright, creative, and beautiful woman. She was one of the gentlest souls I have ever met. She always made me smile. That smile turned into tears today. Tears for the husband she will never marry. Tears for the children she will never raise. Tears for the dreams she will never realize. One of her greatest dreams was to help others struggling with eating disorders. This dream has come true. Her story has ... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1289886 Sun, 09 Mar 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1289886 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/247426666/eating-disorder.html Regarding my last post, check out the results!! Jenni PRESS RELEASEMARCH 6 2008CONTACT MARC LERRO, 202-543-9570 Eating disorders were front and center in the debate leading to yesterday’s passage of mental health parity in the U.S. House of Representatives. The House passed the parity bill by a vote of 268 to 148.The House version of a national mental health parity bill includes broad definitions of mental illness that would include eating disorders. A Senate bill passed last year offers fewer protections but is likely to become the final version that Congress will send for the president’s signature. The Eating Disorders Coalition has supported both House and Senate versions, but prefers the House bill. Yesterday’s action in the House marks the first time in 12 years that... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1286484 Fri, 07 Mar 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1286484 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/245865357/urgent-request.html We all know that people with eating disorders have difficulty getting health insurance coverage. We can make a difference and work to get better coverage by advocating for mental health parity for eating disorders today. Please see the message below from the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED). Take action TODAY! Thanks to AED for your great work! Best, Jenni Message from AED: Dear AED Members, Thanks to the efforts of citizens, policy makers and advocacy groups across America the House of Representatives has scheduled a historic vote on a comprehensive mental health/substance use parity bill on Wednesday, March 5.  This vote is critical to our shared goal of winning enactment of a strong mental health parity law this year.  We can pass this legislation now but we need your ... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1279519 Tue, 04 Mar 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1279519 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/245010890/listen-to-a-rad.html Doris Smeltzer, author of Andrea's Voice: Silenced by Bulimia, is hosting a rare and singular Internet radio show. The show is called Savor Yourself ... beyond skin deep.  It courageously addresses the issues in a world where a "one-size fits all" mentality prevails.  Through personal story and interviews with world-renowned experts in the field of eating disorders, nutrition, and body image issues Savor Yourself helps its listeners dare to go "beyond skin deep" as they end their body woes and get turned on to life again!  To tune in for this uplifting hour every Monday at 1:00 PM (PST) please go to the Internet Radio Link at www.AndreasVoice.org or www.VoiceAmerica.com. I highly recommend the book, Andrea’s Voice, and am excited about being a guest on... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1274998 Mon, 03 Mar 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1274998 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/242335091/do-you-struggle.html I am looking for participants to share their experience with exercise bulimia for an upcoming story in a national magazine. Participants must fit the following criteria: 1.) female, age 21 or under2.) normal weight range during struggle with exercise bulimia 3.) willing to have photo appear in magazine4.) live in the United States I will interview participants over the phone. If you or someone you know is interested, please contact me at jenni@jennischaefer.com. I look forward to hearing from you! Jenni (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1261841 Wed, 27 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1261841 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/241216048/nedaw-2008-is-h.html I am in snowy Iowa today getting geared up for National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDAW)! If you live near Ames, Iowa, please visit me tomorrow night at Iowa State University. To celebrate NEDAW, I will also be in Lubbock, Texas, and Binghamton, New York. For event details, visit http://www.jennischaefer.com/calendar.php. --- Here is some information about NEDAW 2008: - Paige Premium Denim has designed a “Be Comfortable in Your Genes” denim bracelet as a fundraiser for NEDA (National Eating Disorders Association). You can buy a bracelet at www.nationaleatingdisorders.org. I love my bracelet! - NEDA has partnered with TrueJeans.com to promote the “genes” message. Visit www.embraceyourgenes.org to find out more about eating disorders and to buy a pair of jeans that... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1256382 Mon, 25 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1256382 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/239994369/a-moms-letter-t.html During my struggle with anorexia and bulimia, I found that writing a letter to my eating disorder (Ed) was always very helpful. I could let out anger, frustration, and tears. When I wrote to Ed, I could take some of my power back. If you have never written a letter to Ed, I would encourage you to try it sometime. You will find below a letter to Ed written from a parent’s perspective. My great friend/colleague, Laura Collins, wrote a letter to her daughter’s eating disorder. I think you will gain a lot of insights from reading her words, as I did. If you have not yet read Laura’s book, Eating With Your Anorexic, I would highly encourage you to check it out as well. Not only did I learn a lot from the book, but I also laughed the entire way through it. (If you have read my book,... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1251910 Sat, 23 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1251910 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/234997875/happy-valentine.html Whether you have a special someone in your life or not this Valentine’s Day, make it a great one! I do not have a special someone in my life this year. No, I have LOTS of special people in my life! I kicked off the morning with an email from my little brother ---- wishing me a good day. Then I opened a lovely card from my mom and dad. I will see my vocal coach later today and am having dinner with a friend tonight. I will connect with a few people through phone calls, emails, and text messaging as well. Valentine’s Day is about love. I definitely have a lot of love in my life. Surround yourself with love. Today --- unlike years in the past --- I have self-love. I am not afraid to say that I love myself. I take care of myself. I respect my body and let myself have fun. I ... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1232068 Thu, 14 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1232068 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/233921927/participate-in.html Hi! Since so many of you wanted to share your story with me recently, I thought some of you might be interested in an upcoming documentary about adult women with eating disorders. Please see a note from the producer below. Contact her directly. Thanks! Jenni Producer's Note: Are you a woman in your late 30’s or 40’s whose feeling the pressure to lose weight to look like you’re in your twenties? Are you busy, career driven and family focused who works hard to juggle it all? We’re looking for women to feature in a documentary about the pressure of being skinny and in your 40's. Whether you recognize it as anorexia or a lifestyle choice, we're looking to feature a wide range of woman with different experiences. It’s part of a season of films the BBC are making about ... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1225663 Tue, 12 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1225663 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/229130640/national-eating.html National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDAW) is approaching fast (February 24th - March 1st). Check out www.nationaleatingdisorders.org for more information. During NEDAW, I am excited about presenting at Iowa State University and Texas Tech University. I am also thrilled to be speaking at many other events throughout February and March. This week, I will be in Guelph, Ontario, Canada! For my schedule of events, please visit my website: http://www.lifewithouted.com/calendar.php Thanks so much for your support. I hope to see you somewhere! Jenni P.S. To stay posted on my events, please join my Ed-busters email list at www.lifewithouted.com. (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1200883 Mon, 04 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1200883 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/224992596/learning-from-t.html I had coffee with my friend, Aaron, tonight. He is a recovered alcoholic, and he always inspires me with his insights. Tonight he shared some words with me that are often heard in Twelve Step meetings for alcoholics. I think those of you struggling with eating disorders will relate to the words below: What other people think of you is none of your business.Change only happens when the pain of holding on is greater than the fear of letting go. Progress, not perfection. If God is your co-pilot, SWITCH SEATS! Serenity isn't freedom from the storm; it is peace within the storm. Regardless of your specific struggle or addiction, we are all on a common journey of recovery. We can all make it together! Jenni (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1184755 Mon, 28 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1184755 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/221352772/thank-you.html Thanks to everyone who responded to my last post and shared their recovery journey with me. I was thrilled to hear from so many people. You are all amazing! I was deeply touched to connect with so many inspirational woman. I am no longer looking for people to participate in the story. But I still want to hear from you. So keep blogging... Jenni (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1170247 Tue, 22 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1170247 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/215061471/do-you-want-to.html I am looking for participants to share their experience with having an eating disorder for an upcoming story in a national magazine. Participants must fit the following criteria: 1.) age 21 or under2.) normal weight to above-average weight range during struggle with anorexia and/or bulimia3.) willing to have photo appear in magazine Participants will be interviewed over the phone by me. If you or someone you know is interested, please contact me at jenni@jennischaefer.com. Thanks so much! Jenni (Source: Recovery Support) Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1146851 Fri, 11 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1146851 http://www.eatingdisordersblogs.com/recovery/2008/01/falling-on-my-f.html I hope 2008 is going well for you! I started my year off in silent reflection --- not because I wanted to be quiet. Due to stitches in my chin, I was actually under doctor???s orders not to speak. (I tripped over a wire in a parking lot, landed on my face, and had to go to the emergency room for stitches.) So I rested last week and did not talk at all. What an experience! I had to sit and be still. And I was reminded that being very still --- being very quiet --- is very therapeutic. In my forced solitude, I gained a much deeper gratitude for my life. I gained a new sense of appreciation for my health, my friends and family, and for my work. Last week, I did my best to think about the many blessings in my life instead of focusing on the big abrasion on my face. I even tried to be grate... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1140109 Wed, 09 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1140109 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/207162398/i-hope-you-are.html I hope you are having a wonderful holiday! I am having a great time with family and friends in Texas. I am very excited about the New Year, so I wrote a new article (below). Happy 2008! Best, JenniA New Year’s Resolution: Making each day a time for changeby Jenni Schaefer Do you have a New Year’s resolution? As the last seconds of the year tick away, we often become introspective and think about ways that we can improve our lives. Some of the most common promises we make to ourselves each January 1st involve spending more time with friends and family, taking better care of our bodies, and sticking to a budget. This year my New Year’s resolution is to stop making New Year’s resolutions. Don’t get me wrong. It is a good thing to want to change our lives for the ... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1119380 Thu, 27 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1119380 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/200937387/ed-is-not-an-op.html I just had the opportunity to present at Family Week at Center For Change in Orem, Utah. I spoke with both family members and women struggling with eating disorders. One young lady pointed out something very important about relapse. She said, “Yes, relapse is normal. But we can’t use this fact as an excuse to relapse.”  Relapse is definitely a normal part of eating disorder recovery. I relapsed often throughout my recovery process, but I always did my best to learn from every fall. And I did my best to not fall in the same way twice. At one point in my recovery, I began using relapse as an excuse to relapse. I found myself sliding back over and over again. I had hit a wall, because I was not willing to make certain changes. I thought, “Relapse is normal. I will stop relaps... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1097317 Sat, 15 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1097317 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/195059141/holiday-message.html I hope you are enjoying this holiday season! My former therapist and co-author, Thom Rutledge, would like to share some wisdom with you about the holidays. His article below includes some great tips. Enjoy! Best, Jenni The Rules of Self-Care Apply to the Holidays TooBy Thom Rutledge, author of Embracing Fear No matter what progress we may have made in taking better care of ourselves in our day to day lives, we are in danger of leaving that progress behind when we pack for our holiday trips --- whether the trip is cross country or just across town. Consider the strange phenomenon of instant age regression when you step across the threshold of your parents’ home. You may be 42 when you step onto the porch, but once inside the house your psyche automatically shrinks to 12. Or think abo... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1070399 Tue, 04 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1070399 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/188605064/happy-thanksgiv.html I hope you are having a wonderful holiday with friends and family. I am grateful for a lot this year. I am grateful for my health, my family, and my work. I am grateful for you! Thank you for reading my blog, my articles, and “Life Without Ed.” Thank you for joining my online family. Here is one more article --- about the holidays. Have fun! Jenni Holiday Cheer: Cheese Ball vs. Bowling Ballby Jenni Schaefer Strike! I bowled a strike. I knocked over all of the pins with the first bowl. Christmas day was on a real upswing. Bowling balls replaced the holiday cheese balls. “Should I go for that pin?” replaced “Should I eat this cookie?”  I could finally relax. After the traditional holiday meal, my cousins and I had left the house where the rest of the family gathe... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1045228 Wed, 21 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1045228 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/185883053/what-is-recover.html I recently attended the Renfrew Center Foundation Conference for Professionals in Philadelphia. Throughout this amazing conference, the question was asked: “What is recovery?” I participated in many discussions and attended wonderful presentations that attempted to answer this question. And I was inspired to write the article below. I hope you can relate to my words. Have a great weekend! Best, Jenni Redefining Recovery:  Getting beyond the behaviors of an eating disorder by Jenni Schaefer “How would you define recovery in one word?” Kelly asked. “Free,” I answered. Kelly is a young woman struggling with an eating disorder. She was talking with me, because I am recovered from anorexia and bulimia. I have been there. “Free” means a lot more than simply freedom ... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1033126 Fri, 16 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1033126 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/179623352/findingbalance-.html FINDINGbalance.com is excited to announce the launch of new Monday night gatherings, beginning November 5. I will be speaking on November 12th. I hope to see you there! Here’s an overview: For:      Anyone with eating issues (and those who love them)Time:    7:30 – 9:00 pmPlace:   Fb office – 219 Cummins Street, downtown Franklin, TN 37064 (parking on street is OK)Cost:    Free! November schedule:11/5      Constance Rhodes, Author, “Life Inside the Thin Cage”11/12    Jenni Schaefer, Author, “Life Without Ed”11/19    Eileen Stellefson Myers, RD “Holiday Food Strategies” For more information, contact events@findingbalance.com or 615-599-6948. To stay posted on my events, please jo... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1002861 Sun, 04 Nov 2007 04:00:00 +0100 1002861 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/178839768/the-holidays.html are almost in full swing! For people struggling with eating disorders, the holidays can be a very difficult season. So I want to kick off November with an article I wrote about the holidays. And I want to share with you that the holidays are actually a happy season for me these days. I look forward to family gatherings and do not worry about all of the food. This is a true gift of recovery. I wish this for you. Best, Jenni Hugs, Humor, and the Holidays: Surviving the Seasonby Jenni Schaefer Hugging and saying goodbye go hand in hand (or arm in arm). We even hug people we don’t like, because it is the standard, routine thing to do. As Nike says, we, “Just do it.” So why did I forget to hug someone who I really care about in the airport the other day?  I actually s... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1001147 Fri, 02 Nov 2007 04:00:00 +0100 1001147 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/172553004/do-you-think-im.html How many times have you heard the question: “Do you think I’m fat?” Maybe you said it. Or maybe it was your friend or a family member. If you are familiar with this question, I think you will relate to my article below. Best, Jenni Do You Think I’m Fat?Finding truth, finding myselfby Jenni Schaefer Ed whispered in my ear when I was four-years-old the answer to my never-ending question, “Do you think I’m fat?” “Yes,” he said, “You are fat. You are not good enough, and you never will be.” Ed was in my life for over twenty years. People who have an eating disorder and those who know someone suffering with the insidious illness know exactly what I mean when I say “Ed.” They know that Ed is not my father, brother, or some friend. They know that E... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=966012 Sat, 20 Oct 2007 04:00:00 +0100 966012 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/168110144/when-to-share-y.html I hope you are doing well. I just returned from the NEDA Conference in San Diego. What a wonderful event! I met many courageous people whose lives have been touched by eating disorders. I was very inspired. At the conference, I had the opportunity to present with Shannon Albert, who is the NEDA Volunteer Coordinator. We spoke about sharing your personal story responsibly in outreach efforts. For those of you who are interested in outreach and education, I included some information from our presentation below. Best, Jenni When to Share Your Recovery Story by Thom Rutledge and Jenni Schaefer Sharing your own personal story of recovery is a very important decision, deserving of careful consideration and thought. As a recovering person, you can offer insight and hop... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=941997 Wed, 10 Oct 2007 04:00:00 +0100 941997 http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/typepad/Gurze/recovery/~3/163438558/join-us-at-divo.html There are still a few spots left in our next Divorcing Ed retreat October 12-14. I would love to see you there! You will experience firsthand the power of Thom’s “divide & conquer” method of eating disorder recovery, learn recovery techniques that really work, and have fun in the process! For more information, contact Julie at thomtalks@aol.com or 615-406-8968 or visit http://www.lifewithouted.com/workshop.php. What some participants have said about the Divorcing Ed Retreat: You saved my life. And made me laugh in the process. Amanda H.Wisconsin I feel like I'm at a turning point in my life ... FINALLY ... and I can honestly say that it's because of your workshop ... it was JUST what I needed at JUST the right time. Your inspiration, encouragement, and belief in ... Recovery Support blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=915448 Sun, 30 Sep 2007 04:00:00 +0100 915448