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Emma LloydNew Zealand runner and student nurse with anorexia.
Country:
 New Zealand |
Content:
- The Marathon That Triggered My Anorexia
- A Life of Self-Deprivation
- Diagnosis and Treatment
- Relapse and Deterioration
- Physical Consequences
- Breaking the Cycle
- A Future with Hope
The Marathon That Triggered My Anorexia
Emma Lloyd was a successful marathon runner and nursing student. However, beneath her athletic exterior lay a dangerous secret: she was battling anorexia.
A Life of Self-Deprivation
Lloyd's obsession began in 2009 when she saw photos of herself in a half-marathon. Feeling overweight, she stopped eating at school and began restricting her intake to a handful of grapes a day. She also engaged in "punishment runs" of up to 32 miles to burn off any calories she had consumed.
Diagnosis and Treatment
In 2010, Lloyd's weight plummeted to a low of 86 pounds. Her mother took her to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with anorexia. She was admitted to Dunedin Hospital in 2010 and discharged before Christmas.
Relapse and Deterioration
Despite initial progress, Lloyd's anorexia returned a year later when she began running again. Her running speed and stamina fueled her disorder, and she was forced to stop abruptly at times due to fear of heart failure.
Physical Consequences
In 2013, Lloyd's weight reached a record low of 70 pounds. Her bones protruded, her skin turned red from frostbite, and her veins became prominent. Despite her declining health, she continued to break records in running.
Breaking the Cycle
In 2014, Lloyd finally sought professional help. Her recovery journey has been gradual, and she now shares her story through her YouTube channel to raise awareness about eating disorders.
A Future with Hope
While Lloyd hopes to return to running in the future, she is hesitant to do so given its connection to her past illness. She remains committed to maintaining her recovery and helping others who are struggling with eating disorders.
