This beautiful young woman is Emily. She is a wife, mother of four boys (two of whom are hers), artist and author of "Chasing Silhouettes: How to Help a Loved One Battling an Eating Disorder," available here. She is also one of the dearest people I know, with a passionate love for her Savior and others.
That love runs through the pages of her book - a book birthed out of the pain of her own suffering - as she reaches out to those with eating disorders.
The book tells the story of her struggle with an eating disorder that nearly took her life. She has included stories from other people, each coming from different circumstances, but all with the same terrible struggle.
Family members and friends tell how living with someone with an eating disorder affects them and offer advice on how to react and what to say. No one escapes the pain. When a loved one suffers, we all suffer.
Then there is the perspective from medical professionals. It is a comprehensive look at a problem faced by so many families. In a time where outward appearance seems to be everything, and the standard so skewed, it offers hope and sound, practical advice.
Emily has included a prayer at the end of every chapter - moving, heartbreaking words to a God who loves us just the way we are.
While reading it, even though I don't suffer from an eating disorder, I found wisdom for my own life. We all have battles we must fight. It is so encouraging to know there is hope.
For more information please visit www.emilywierenga.com
Blessings,
Linda
