Candlelight Vigil for those facing eating disorders

Naperville-based Linden Oaks Behavioral Health is planning its 15th annual Candlelight Vigil for those affected by eating disorders.

The vigil, which is open to the public, is scheduled for 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, May 21, in the Healing Garden at Linden Oaks on the campus of Edward Hospital, 801 S. Washington St. The theme of this year's vigil is "Weaving the Tapestry of Recovery."

"The vigil is an opportunity for this community to gather and support each other," said Erin Terada, clinical director of the Linden Oaks eating disorders program.

"There is a thread that connects us all, which is why we chose this year's theme," Terada said. "If we think about recovery as a tapestry, then we understand the small threads that make the larger, beautiful picture are really just small, simple efforts, decisions, struggles and accomplishments along the way."

The vigil is an opportunity for those in recovery to share stories, reconnect with former patients and families, and give hope to others, as well as themselves.

More than 300 people will gather to motivate and encourage recovery, provide support for families, to commemorate those who have lost their lives and recognize those who have recovered and survived.

The vigil will feature speeches by recovering/recovered patients and family members whose loved ones passed away due to eating disorders. There will be musical performances, presentations by former patients and a candle lighting ceremony.

The Linden Oaks Eating Disorders Program, designated a Center of Excellence by The Joint Commission, offers four levels of care with the latest techniques designed to help adults and adolescents recover from anorexia, bulimia and other eating disorders.

For more information, visit www.eehealth.org/services/behavioral-health/specialties/eating-disorders. For a free assessment, call the Linden Oaks Help Line at (630) 305-5027.