Did you know that over a million Australians are currently experiencing an eating disorder? Less than a quarter of these people are getting treatment and support. 

My name is Lauren and I will be turning 21 in February. For my birthday, I have chosen to donate money towards the Butterfly Foundation, a national charity for all Australians impacted by eating disorders and body image issues and for the families, friends and communities who support them.

You may be wondering why this is my chosen charity for my 21st or why I would rather donate money to charity than receive gifts. As young as the age of six, I have been one of the many Australians who have had body image issues and in September 2018, this hatred for my body lead me to being diagnosed with bulimia nervosa. And although I can guarantee these disordered eating habits begun much before then, I did not receive correct treatment or assistance for my problems.

Eight months after my diagnosis, after lots of medical tests, interviews and surveys, I was finally accepted into an Eating Disorder recovery program. Without that eating disorder program, I would not be here celebrating my 21st as healthy as I am, or even at all. That is why, for my birthday, the greatest gift of all would be able to help people going through the same problems I did. Even if the people being supported by the Butterfly Foundation do not see any light at the end of the tunnel, it would mean the world to be able to give them the opportunity to at least try. Any donations would be greatly appreciated. Even just $20 can help enable parents of someone with an eating disorder to attend a face-to-face support group.

Thank you 🌻