I Wear Purple Because

I wear purple because:

20% of people with an eating disorder cannot

They fought a mental illness whose mortality rate

Is higher than those of any other

And sadly they did not win

I wear purple because

I am not ashamed of my disease

And although many fail to comprehend

By spreading awareness and educating

I hope to help decrease the death toll

I refuse to be a statistic

I wear purple because

Some of the strongest people I know

Most of my closest and kindest friends

And the futures doctor’s, lawyers, teachers and more

Are fighting a war inside their head

I made a pact to support them

I wear purple because

There is someone out there

Wanting to wear purple just for someone to notice

They need help and they can’t fight this alone

Today and any day know you have my support

I wear purple because

Eating disorders do not discriminate

Neither does the color pink

People of all ages, ethnicities, races and genders

Are suffering an illness in silence

They fear they will be judged

I wear purple because

One day I will believe I am more than

A number, a height, a measurement, a BMI

I am more than my looks

More than my curves

And way more than those who caused this extreme self hatred

I look real good, real beautiful in violet

I wear purple because

To me it’s a symbol of strength and courage

3 years ago I cared only of my weight

2 years ago my heart rate was low

Last year I grew tired of the fight and tried to do myself in

This year I wear purple because

When my illness tried to kill me

God didn’t allow it

He kept me here so that I could wear purple again

Oh and it’s my favorite color ;)

 

Kimberly Edwards

February, 24, 2015