National Eating Disorders Association Commends Besieged Wisconsin Reporter

Online, October 5, 2012 (Newswire.com) - The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) commends WKBT 8 morning news reporter Jennifer Livingston, in La Crosse, Wisc., for standing up and speaking out against bodysnarking, a term coined to describe appearance-related bullying that is sadly so commonplace today in the workplace, on schoolyards and in social media.

After being e-mailed harshly worded criticism from a viewer for being perceived as overweight, which he cited as a poor example for the community's youth, Livingston - the mother of three - seized the opportunity to address the attack publicly on-air, pointing out that October is Anti-Bullying Month and urged viewers to teach their own children tolerance towards one another. Her appeal hit a chord. A YouTube clip of the segment has surpassed 7 million views and has garnered a national outpouring of support (even Ellen Degeneres tweeted a shout out).

Commented, Lynn Grefe, president and CEO of NEDA, "Good for Jennifer Livingston for taking a stand against bullying and bodysnarking; and good for WKBT 8 for providing the air time for her comments. No one should be stigmatized or discriminated against for any reason whatsoever, including body shapes and sizes. Jennifer's willingness to publicly speak out against this dangerous, nasty behavior sets a great example and we hope more people will follow in her footsteps."

The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), headquartered in New York City, is the leading U.S. non-profit organization supporting individuals and families affected by eating disorders. NEDA serves as a catalyst for prevention, cures and access to quality care. Each year, NEDA helps millions of people across the country find information and appropriate treatment resources through its toll-free, live helpline, its many outreach programs and website. NEDA advocates for advancements in the field and envisions a world without eating disorders.

For Treatment Referrals, Visit www.NationalEatingDisorders.org
Or Contact NEDA's Live Helpline: 800-931-2237
Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (EST)

Contact:

Greenleaf & Associates - 323-660-5800
Kelly Williams - [email protected]