Last December our beloved sister and sister-in-law suddenly passed away after a long and often very difficult struggle against anorexia. During this struggle Heather received both in and out-patient treatment from the NHS. Sadly this was often untimely, traumatic, and too little too late, resulting in Heather preferring to fight the illness with no professional help. Despite this, Heather continued to sock it  to the anorexia, living an independent, dignified, and fulfilled life, pursuing her interests (including a love of music, coffee and books), travelling, helping others, building an impressive career, and holding on to her unique wit. To us, and to many others, Heather continues to be a hero and an inspiration. But it wasn't always easy for her or those who loved her to keep up the fight with the limited support options available.

Whilst we have huge respect and pride for our NHS, and we recognise resources are stretched, the numbers of those with stories like Heather are only on the rise, and they deserve appropriate and timely help. 

Please, join with us this Eating Disorders Awareness Week* (26th Feb - 4th March) to help Beat, the UK's national eating disorders charity:

• campaign for shorter treatment waiting times (currently the wait is 3 years);
• raise awareness of these often misunderstood and under-resourced mental health illnesses;
• continue to offer indispensable practical and emotional support to individuals and families affected by eating disorders.

Simply dig out your brightest, most outrageous socks, choose a day to wear them during EDAW, and then donate whatever you can to help sock it to eating disorders for good.

With our love and thanks , Katie & Chris x 

*EDAW is an initiative of Beat. Please click here to read more and be inspired by their amazing work.