My name is Gary and I am a 35 year old male.

My name is Gary, and I have been recovered from anorexia nervosa, obsessive compulsive disorder, and depression for over fourteen years now. I'm 35 years of age, been married ten years to a wonderful wife, and have been blessed with three loving children. This is also my seventh year as a licensed school counselor in Wisconsin, USA. 

I was hospitalized six times on a psychiatric unit for anorexia, OCD, and depression between 1985-89 for over 300 days total. I got down to 103 pounds for my lowest weight (I'm 5' 8") and was suicidal at times, almost dying from health complications at one point due to my anorexia habits. I was also involved with some self injury (cutting, burning). Through intensive inpatient and outpatient therapy, along with support from family and friends, I learned how to let go of my eating disorder because I was pretty much sick of being sick. I never went back to old ways. 

Today, I have a completely different lifestyle compared to my eating disorder days and enjoy a vibrant, content life. Recovery can be a reality. 

For the past fourteen years, I have been a national resource person and media consultant for ANAD (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders) of Highland Park, Illinois. I have been a guest on national talk shows (Jenny Jones, Les Brown) and cable television (Lifetime Channel, Extra), featured in national magazines and newspapers (Woman's World, New York Newday, Chicago Sun Times), and done numerous public speaking appearances and a professional workshop or two to community organizations and schools of all levels. I have consulted and counseled individuals and families from around the country who suffer with various disorderd eating struggles via E-mail. 

My email is: gagrahl@sbcglobal.net