Bolton woman who battled anorexia aims to remove stigma

Kelly Louise Appleton, from Egerton, was given just a week-and-a-half to live in 2020 after struggling during lockdown, when` she had to work from home as a primary school teacher.

But with the help of anorexia charity Beats she turned her life around.

She was diagnosed aged 19 and was at a critical stage when she was just 21.

And now she is holding a Christmas themed coffee and cake event to keep the charity going.

• ALSO READ: Woman who was given just over a week to live after suffering from anorexia gives back
• ALSO READ: Ex-teacher to raise money for anorexia charity after being given just over a week to live

Kelly Louise Appleton with her boyfriend Lewis Wright (Image: Public)She said: “With social media there is a lot more positivity that has come about around mental health.

“Having people around you and being able to speak up is important because people need to feel that they can speak up.

“It’s definitely moving the right way.”

Kelly says that some of the stigma that exists centres around many not realising that men and other people also go through eating disorders too.

She added: “You don’t have to look a certain way to have an eating disorder or mental health problems.

“There are people who are not under weight who are still struggling from an eating disorder.”

For the past couple of years, Kelly has continued to try and raise as much awareness and money for Beats as possible.

She added: “It’s so charities like this can continue and provide support for those who need it most.

“It gives people like me who didn’t have a voice a chance.

Louise before and after her transformation (Image: Public)“The more people feel like they can speak up through raising awareness the more help will be available.”

Kelly is now a qualified educational mental health practitioner, helping children to deal with anxiety and depression in schools.

She said: “It’s a good way to give back after everything I have been through and amazing being able to help support others.”

Kelly says that the event is open to anyone who wants a chat or support.

Scan the QR code to donate (Image: Public)There will be cake, coffee, and lots more sweet treats available, as well as raffle tickets for some prizes.

Raffle prize donations are also welcome.

The event will take place on Saturday, November 18 from 11am to 2pm at the kitchen makeover company, Dream Doors, 5 Bury Road.

Donations can also be made via the JustGiving page here (www.justgiving.com/page/kelly-appleton-1695725231152).

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