Writer to address overcoming adversity, eating disorder recovery

Author Jenni Schaefer will present “Almost Anorexic: Do you have an ‘Ed’ (eating disorder) in your head?” at 7 p.m., Monday, April 11, in the Student Union Movie Theater.

Schaefer’s best-selling novel “Life Without Ed: How One Woman Declared Independence from Her Eating Disorder and How You Can Too” chronicles her journey with an eating disorder and established her as a leader in the recovery movement.

“Jenni’s story is empowering to all as she tells about her road to recovery,” said Rachael Forester, assistant director at the Multicultural Resource Center. “Students need to hear that it is possible to fully recover from an eating disorder and that they deserve to be happy.”

A graduate from Texas A&M University with a degree in biochemistry, Schaefer is able to create a bridge between her personal life and the clinical side of dealing with issues, including addiction and perfectionism, eating and body image, self-esteem and personal empowerment.

She is chair of the Ambassadors Council of the National Eating Disorders (NEDA) and a member of the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals and the Academy of Eating Disorders. She has consulted with many other organizations, agencies and treatment centers.

The Multicultural Resource Center, in collaboration with the Student Health Center, is hosting Schaefer’s appearance on April 11. The event is open to the public; seating is limited. A book signing will follow.