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This episode invites my special guest, Mallary Tenore Tarpley, who is a Journalism Professor at the University of Texas at Austin and Author of the memoir Slip: Life in the Middle of Eating Disorder Recovery.

Mallary became anorexic after the death of her mother when she was twelve shortly after her mother passed away from breast cancer.  She didn't know how to deal with her mother's passing.  She showed a strong front facade, however inside she felt her whole life was crumbling the longer she went on the further away she felt from her mom.  Somehow she felt that if she stayed the same size as when her mother left her she would be closer to her mother and small and safe.

This is a very interesting view of exactly what Mallary speaks to - Life in the middle of Eating Disorder Recovery.  I love how she speaks about changing a slip from a slide and building where there is a place where slips will follow, however recovery is possible but does not have to be perfect.

It is through treatment and her writing that Mallary found the origin of her eating disorder, what it served, and what to "recognize everything it could take away".

Mallary said it is really important to talk about recovery, even if not fully recovered.  She writes about what the middle place is like.  She explains that it is not a place of stagnancy, it is about recognizing the slips, and to move towards that recovery with being honest.  She speaks about immediacy, rather than delaying to remain as a slip instead of going into a slide. 

Mallory does have her husband and other people who she can rely on.  This is so important.

We also spoke to even after recovery, are there still signs that remain?  Do we still restrict even after recovery?  A lingering imprint, is what Mallary said, and I personally do not pay attention to it in general, however, I will say at odd times I do.

The book is out today on Amazon, and Barnes and Noble.  You can also reach Mallary at www.mallarytenoretarpley.com or on Amazon.com

Thank you, Mallary, for your insight.

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