Despite growing body positivity, eating disorders still affect many lives. Annie Windley, a 21-year-old from Derbyshire, struggled with anorexia for over five years. At one point, she weighed as little as 29 kg (65 lbs) and risked a heart attack.
Annie was hospitalized several times and struggled with recovery. But in 2017, something changed—this time, she fought for herself. Through resilience and her love of running, she regained her strength and gained 18 kilos in four months.
Annie now sees life differently. She values kindness and connection instead of weight and food obsession. Running played a huge role in her recovery, helping her focus on what her body can do rather than how it looks. Competing in the Chesterfield Half Marathon became a symbol of her triumph.
Her advice? “Recovery isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. Don’t let anorexia steal your happiness.” Annie now lives life with gratitude, proving that change is always possible.
