Beveridge Sisters Jump for Beat

On 20th May 2018, we are jumping out of a plane!

Alison: 2014 was a crazy year. I graduated from drama school, bought and opened a children's theatre school, moved from London to Durham, completed my first Great North Run, did a National tour of Beauty and the Beast and was diagnosed with anorexia nervosa.

Before then, my understanding of eating disorders and mental health issues was limited, naive and based on ignorant judgements. I enjoyed an incredible and colourful childhood (shout out to Mama and Papa Bevs), I was a high-achiever throughout my studies and like most, loved food so this diagnosis may come as a surprise to many of you.

Eating disorders are all-consuming, manipulative and secret. In comparison to most sufferers, my recovery has been a quick one. Did you know, only a third of sufferers recover, a third battle their entire lives and the remaining third tragically pass away. I've been so blessed to have had the support of my family and a team of insightful professionals. Living a double existence was exhausting but I was determined not to let the illness take over my life completely.

Why am I sharing this now? Firstly, I've written a one woman play based on my experiences so if you come to see it, you'll obviously find out. Secondly, I want to give hope to anyone enduring a similar battle. I'm more than happy to share my experience with those fighting an eating disorder, feel free to get in touch. This box is only a teeny tiny peek into my story. In an oversharing society, you don't need to know all the deats but you do need to know that recovery is possible, it's just bloody hard work.

Jayne: I've always looked up to my sister. She's an amazing, beautiful, strong lady who has a heart of gold and is an amazing friend. But come 2014, the Beveridge household was sent a challenge ... a big one that I hope no one has to face.

Watching the person you love the most go through something so heartbreaking as an eating disorder really puts a strain on the relationship. Me and my bestie have come out stronger than ever! It's hard not understanding what they are going through and trying to think of the right thing to say and not wanting to upset them, but every dark tunnel has a light at the end and it does get better I promise you that!

I'm jumping out of the plane for my big sis because I am so proud of her and what she has overcome! Everyone is beautiful and perfect in their own way so let's stick together, give each other compliments and beat this together!

Both of us: Thanks in advance for your love, support and donations xx