For release: February 13, 2009
For press information, contact Brandy Hunter, 901-678-6244 or Cody Newman, 901-461-8654
As part of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (Feb. 22-28), the University of
Memphis will host the West Tennessee premiere of the documentary film America the Beautifulon Tuesday, February 24, in the Michael D. Rose Theatre. A reception will begin at
6 p.m., followed at 7 p.m. by the film and a panel discussion with its writer and
producer, Darryl Roberts.
The film explores the question of whether America has an unhealthy obsession with
beauty. It is presented by Active Minds and the Student Dietetic Association, in
partnership with the Eating Disorders Coalition of Tennessee.
The event is free and open to the public. Convenient parking is available in the
Zach Curlin garage or in the Southern Avenue parking lot.
On Thursday, February 26, a panel discussion featuring Dr. Beth Lyons and Leslie Schilling
will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. in Brister Hall, Room 220. They will discuss the prevalence
of eating disorders on college campuses and what college communities can do to aid
in eating-disorder awareness.
The event is free and open to the public, but reservations are recommended. Reservations
may be made by calling Brandy Hunter at 901-351-4734 or Cody Newman at 901-461-8654.
Convenient parking is available in the Fogelman garage on Innovation Drive or in the
Central Avenue parking lot.
Now in its 22nd year, National Eating Disorders Awareness Week brings attention to
the severity of eating disorders, which are mental illnesses that can often have life-threatening
physical consequences. In the U.S., as many as a million males and 10 million females
struggle with the devastating effects of anorexia and bulimia. Another 25 million
suffer from binge-eating disorder. While recovery is possible, especially with early
intervention, many people suffer from long-term effects of these illnesses.
Thousands of individuals and communities are expected to participate in events across
the country to raise awareness about body image and eating disorder issues during
National Eating Disorders Awareness Week.
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