RECOGNIZING TEN YEARS - FROM OUR FOUNDER
EDSNA – The Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta – an odd moniker for sure but chosen with intent. The name was chosen to ensure that the organization was easy to find for those seeking our services and to ensure that our focus was absolutely clear for those looking for help.
10 years supporting Albertans dealing with eating disorders. A meaningful milestone. The thing about milestones is that they encourage us to look back at how far we have come and to look forward to where we are going.
It is with mixed emotions that I write this note.
Gratitude
I am grateful to each individual who has contributed to the creation and the continuation of EDSNA from the initial kitchen table meetings to the established organization it has become.
Each individual who has been associated, in any way with EDSNA, has contributed to the success of EDSNA. From program participants to facilitators, to volunteers, to those who have made generous donations, to board members, to community partners. This list is by no means complete. EDSNA was born out of an organic need and continues to develop and grow out of the experiences that each individual brings to the organization.
I am so grateful to the current and past staff of EDSNA. They do and have done such great work to keep the wheels of EDSNA turning. No job description can fully encompass the multitude of roles that they fill from operationalizing the vision of the board to addressing the countless details that are required for EDSNA to run smoothly.
I am immensely grateful to the Government of Alberta, Alberta Health and Alberta Mental Health and Addictions for recognizing the need for our services and for the generous funding they have provided to EDSNA over the past 10 years that has allowed EDSNA to do our work toward meeting our vision and mission.
Pride
I am so proud:
Of the work EDSNA has done over the past 10 years in supporting those who are directly affected by an eating disorder and as importantly, supporting the parents and loved ones of those who are directly affected.
That EDSNA is a recognized community partner in addressing the effects of eating disorders in the province of Alberta and across the country.
That EDNSA has remained true to its original vision to provide education and support to Albertans dealing with eating disorders, regardless of location or the ability to pay.
Of the positive impact EDSNA has made in so many lives over the years. That positive impact is why we do what we do.
Sad
I am sad that there is still a need for an organization like EDSNA. Despite the advances in understanding eating disorders, in the early diagnosis and care of individuals with eating disorders, they continue to inflict a huge impact on so many individuals and families.
Encouraged
I am encouraged to see the advances in the earlier diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders.
I am encouraged that eating disorders are being recognized for the serious mental health disorder that they are, and that they are not merely a ‘passing teenage phase’.
I am encouraged that mental illness is being recognised as just that, an illness that requires appropriate care in order to the individual is able to recover.
Optimistic
I am optimistic that the progress toward understanding the cause and ultimately the cure of eating disorders will become a reality.
Hopeful
I am hopeful that one day, in the not-too-distant future, that there will no longer be a need for EDSNA because eating disorders no longer exist.
Thank you to all those who have been a part of EDSNA over the years!
–Moyra McAllister, Founder and Board Member for EDSNA.
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Find Support
EDSNA offers support groups, workshops and webinars for individuals living with an eating disorder, caregivers and community members that are low-cost or free. No formal diagnosis is required to register.