April 6, 2009

Colleges to participate in candlelight vigil to raise awareness of eating disorders

Morningside College, Briar Cliff University and Western Iowa Tech Community College will work to raise awareness of eating disorders by participating in a candlelight vigil at Morningside College at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 16, in the Yockey Family Community Room of the Olsen Student Center, 3609 Peters Ave.

The public is invited to this free event. The candlelight vigil at Morningside College will be one of hundreds of candlelight vigils taking place across the United States. This national effort is led by ANAD, the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. 

The vigil at Morningside will feature speakers and music, and will center on the ANAD pledge, which focuses on a commitment to accept and appreciate ourselves and others just as we are. Additional information about eating disorders, including treatment options and stories of hope and recovery also will be included, as well as a chance to remember those who have struggled with eating disorders. The ANAD pledge will be read just before the candle lighting.

ANAD was founded in 1976 and is dedicated to education, awareness and alleviation of eating disorders throughout the United States and worldwide.