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Victoria rally aims to spread eating disorder awareness, talk treatment options

The rally and press conference at the Legislature is scheduled at noon on Feb. 7
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A rally at the B.C. Legislature on Feb. 7, 2023, calls for action, awareness and services for adults who have eating disorders. A similar rally is planned for this year, Feb. 7 at noon. (Black Press Media file photo)

Eating Disorder Awareness Week culminates in a rally and press conference at the provincial capital Feb. 7.

Each year, organizations across Canada unite to light notable landmarks in purple and commemorate the national Eating Disorder Awareness Week – Feb. 1 to 7 – to raise awareness and create change to improve lives.

“People living with eating disorders on Vancouver Island know what care they need, and it’s the provincial government’s job to provide that care – like they do for every other health district in the province,” Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich North and the Island, said in a news release issued by the Vancouver Island Voices for Eating Disorders (VIVED).

READ ALSO: ‘A system of failures:’ South Vancouver Island adult eating disorder services quietly removed

VIVED is a registered non-profit that aims to spread awareness and create partnerships to help people living with eating disorders.

With their request to participate in the evaluation process denied, the group is concerned the new Telus Health virtual eating disorder service will not deliver what is most needed on Vancouver Island.

The rally at the Legislature is scheduled at noon on Feb. 7, followed by a press conference with MLA Adam Olsen, and Jonathan Morris of the Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division expected in attendance.

Learn more about the organization at vancouverislandvoicesforeatingdisorders.com.

READ ALSO: ‘Huge gaps’ in care for adults with eating disorders, say advocates at Victoria protest



About the Author: Greater Victoria News Staff

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