Celebrities Speak Out
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Posted by Lori Henry Oct 17, 2006 |
NEDA, The National Eating Disorders Association has partnered with Clear Channel Radio to launch a national PSA campaign. They will use Hollywood stars Paula Abdul (American Idol), Scarlett Pomers (Reba), Wynonna Judd (of the Judds), Sara Evans (Dancing with Stars) and Emme (plus size model) to record 17 spots that will run until mid 2007.
They will focus on raising public awareness about eating disorders and how to get help if someone you know is showing symptoms. Clear Channel Radio airs across the country and serves more than 110 million listeners each week.
Lynn Grefe, the CEO of NEDA, is excited about the partnership: "The National Eating Disorders Association applauds Clear Channel for its leadership in helping us to save lives and lead people toward help. This partnership with our celebrity ambassadors and Clear Channel will reach so many people to emphasize that eating disorders are illnesses, not choices. Eating disorders can be deadly and can devastate entire families- both emotionally and financially. But, we are here together to say that there is hope and there is help. Thank you Clear Channel, Paula, Scarlett, Emme, Wynonna and Sara. Lending your voices to the cause makes a difference and we are grateful."
Joel Delmonico, the Vice President of Clear Channel Radio, responded by saying, "Clear Channel Radio is deeply committed to our listeners in communities across the country. We are part of the daily lives of millions of people and reaching out with important messages like this is what we do every day. We believe that this campaign can have a real and measurable impact on the lives of those suffering from these disorders."
The celebrities are just as thrilled: "I'm so excited to be working with NEDA on this very important issue," said Scarlett Pomers. "The number of sufferers only increases every year and I hope we can step up awareness and relieve the shame and guilt that families feel, so they may get help before their loved ones suffer permanent damage or even death."
Emme added, "Awareness comes only when we are ready to see the whole picture. Here's to bashing false stereotypes and embracing our whole selves!"