'I Just Figured It Would Stop'

With F.R.E.E.D., I want to help as many individuals as possible obtain treatment for this mental illness with the chance at recovery. I draw from my own struggle to expand awareness and knowledge so prevention becomes more prevalent than the necessity for care. My hope is that speaking openly about my recovery will encourage others to achieve wellness and overcome the hopelessness of battling an eating disorder. Because six years later, I am here—healthy, recovered and free from the hell of my eating disorder. There is hope, success and wellness that can be achieved.

Gail Schoenbach is executive director and founder of the F.R.E.E.D. Foundation. WWW.FREEDFOUNDATION.ORG .

© 2006