In today’s episode of Food for Thought, I sit down with dancer and musical theatre performer Tori M. Lopez as we discuss her long, harrowing journey through eating disorder recovery. Based in NYC, Tori has been through a great deal, and we open up about her struggles with balancing health and college life, the rewards and power of recovery, challenges within the healthcare system, and more. Tori’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, artistry, and beauty. She proves that recovery is possible, worth it, and that we can achieve our dreams. I hope you enjoy the episode. Thank you again, Tori, for your support, vulnerability, and transparency. You are an inspiration to performers and to anyone currently struggling.

Resources:

Book: The Body is Not An Apology

Workbook: YOUR Body Is Not An Apology

NEDA: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/

AllianceForEatingDisorders: https://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com/

The Renfrew Alumni Chat Line: 610 - 465 - 1421

The Renfrew Center for Eating Disorders

Topic Timeline:

00:38 - Tori’s Intro

1:30 - Tori’s ED Journey

05:17 - Doctors and ED Invalidation

07:18 - ED Glamorization: Wanting to be Seen

08:56 - Cultural Influences and Treatment Struggles

16:10 - Journey to Recovery and Self Discovery

21:00 - Embracing Recovery and Finding Strength

22:30 - Categorization and EDs

24:21 - Accepting the Diagnosis

28:24 - Eating Disorder’s Effects on Performance

33:31 - The Power of Recovery and Resilliance

36:42 - Challenges in the Healthcare System

39: 22 - Resources for Recovery and Support

40: 04 - Advice and Words of Encouragement