I have struggled with my mental health and my body image and food for around 10 years now. I struggle with disordered eating and cycles of binging and restricting and believe this is something I will always be in recovery with. I have found strength through the gym and have been weight training for 4&1/2 years now and train boxing and have for around 2&1/2 years.

Having the conversation with Karen when I started my journey with JEDS and being explained that I was dealing with an eating disorder was terrifying but somewhat comforting, because it had a name and it meant I could face it and deal with it. It is difficult to explain the way that eating disorders work for those who have never experienced one so it can be a lonely journey, but I am grateful JEDS has always been a safe space for me to go.

What made you want to become a JEDS Ambassador?

When my struggles got the best of me, I was encouraged to reach out to JEDS, and it became one of the most important steps in my recovery.
I went on to have 12 one-to-one counselling sessions with one of their counsellors, who helped me understand the psychological reasons behind my eating disorder and guided me through the process of rebuilding a healthier relationship with food and with myself. I also attend their monthly group sessions, which were invaluable. Being in a safe, non-judgmental space with others who shared similar experiences helped me feel understood, supported, and far less alone.

I want to show people that there is help out there and it’s okay to ask for that help. I want to be a safe space for people to come to and talk and trust me when I then encourage them to get in touch with JEDS.

Why do you think the work JEDS does is important?

The work JEDS does is extremely important because they create a safe, gentle, comforting environment for those battling an eating disorder, supporting/caring for someone with an eating disorder or just wanting to understand more about eating disorders as there is still so much stigma around them. JEDS shows that yes eating disorders are out there and they can be scary but you are not alone!

What is one thing you wish more people understood about eating disorders?

I wish more people understood that eating disorders are so much more complex than what is assumed. I wish more people understood the range of eating disorders that are out there and it isn’t as simple as ‘Just eat this’ or ‘Just go to the gym and lose weight’. Eating disorders are such an intense mental battle, that for most is a daily battle. The more information is shared and put out there, the more safe spaces we can create for those suffering and/or caring for those suffering too.

Why do you think raising awareness of eating disorders if important?

Raising awareness of eating disorders is super important to remove stigma, educate people around the world of the complexity of eating disorders and how to maybe spot the signs in friends/family. Also I think it is important for people to understand how to respectfully speak to someone with an eating disorder about their struggles too.

What are you hoping to achieve through being a JEDS Ambassador?

I want to help spread the word about the incredible work that JEDS do and the support they offer and also to raise money for the charity to assist them in being able to put on further workshops and educate more and more people around the island.

What do you do, or plan to do, to support the charity as JEDS Ambassador?

I plan to attend as many JEDS events as I can to support the charity in getting out there and becoming more known to people. I would also love to share within my work network and at my gym that I am an ambassador for JEDS so people feel comfortable to approach me if they have food struggles and I can then direct them to JEDS to figure out the best path in assisting them.

What would you say to someone affected by an eating disorder who might be struggling to reach out for support?

You don’t have to face it alone! There is an incredible group of people out there wanting to help and support you. Eating disorders can be the nastiest for our brains but if you reach out and let people in, it’ll get easier in time.

A few fun facts

What are three words that describe you? Kind, caring, undiagnosed neurospicy😅
What is your favourite place in Jersey? Any coastal cliff paths!
What is your favourite food? Tough one! Has to be garlic bread!
Coffee or tea? Yorkshire tea all the way!
Early bird or night owl? A mix of both depending on the season!
What is something that always makes you smile? Being with my girls who fill my cup with positive energy!❤
What is one thing on your bucket list? To go and explore New Zealand!