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The Global Impact of F.E.A.S.T. Volunteers

 F.E.A.S.T. Volunteers – Global Change Makers

F.E.A.S.T. could not survive without the amazing contributions of our volunteers who give their precious time, talents, and passion. They are the unsung heroes who are quietly but potently impacting the eating disorder field. As the volunteer coordinator for F.E.A.S.T., I would like to thank our volunteers but also highlight the positions held outside of our organization that will certainly impress you. I’d like to sing the praises of the “on the ground” advocates, and put a spotlight on the unseen work by some of these global change makers.

Bringing the expert by experience voice to the table

F.E.A.S.T. volunteers are on committees and boards all over the world. Why is this important? Until recently, the parent voices in their own child’s health and recovery were silenced. F.E.A.S.T.’s reputation is helping to change that narrative to one of collaboration. With the organization’s strong reputation, volunteers are able to gain a seat at the table and participate in global advocacy to help their not just their own family. but also families around the world!

Please join me in celebrating some of the many accomplishments!

As a Pediatrician, Cipatli Ayuzo, M.D. is one of the many physician advocates who is able to put advocacy into her practice in Mexico. She is also a member of the Academy of Eating Disorders (AED), serving as a member on both the Experts by Experience and the Social Media committees.

Suzanne Baker is now employed by and serves as the Carer Representative for the Faculty of Eating Disorders at the Royal College of Psychiatrists and is a member of the Academy of Eating Disorders (AED), serving as a member on the Experts by Experience committee.

Lisa Burns is a member of the British Colombia Provincial Eating Disorder Network and sits on their Eating Disorder Substance Use Working Group. She also serves as a member of the Canadian Eating Disorder Coalition.

Judy Krasna has worked with the Ministry of Health in Israel, served as an organizer for the Israeli Association for Eating Disorders’ family conference in 2019, and advocates globally through Academy of Eating Disorders (AED), serving as a member of both the Experts by Experience and the Medical Care Standards committees.

Helen Missen is on the Executive Committee for the Faculty of Eating Disorders at the Royal College of Psychiatry and sits on the Board of the European Academy of Eating Disorders (AED).

Mel S. is the Secretary of Scotland’s National Eating Disorders Charity SEDIG (Scottish Eating Disorders Interest Group)

Who steps up when there just isn’t enough support in their country?
Unlike the organizations and government agencies above, sometimes a country just doesn’t have support. This is where volunteers like Denise Robertson step up and advocate for change. Denise lives in South Africa and educates her community who simply doesn’t have the resources and evidence-based treatment like other countries. This takes courage and passion when you are sole voice. But that’s one of our specialties at  F.E.A.S.T….support!

Educational Impact
Not only is Nicki Wilson the Chair of Eating Disorders of Australia and New Zealand (EDANZ) but she has recently spoken to the Personal Trainers Council of New Zealand, two secondary schools and a group of GO practices.

This is just a sample of the incredible international impact of our F.E.A.S.T. volunteers. We want to thank these advocates and will certainly highlight more of our dedicated team!

 

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