Three Generations of Healing
Recovery from an eating disorder can evoke a mix of emotions including fear, stress, and empowerment. For the Ferguson family, this challenging journey served as a turning point, igniting a wave of health and healing. Together, this mother, daughter, and grandmother team embraced a vegan lifestyle and are now sharing their uplifting approach through a new plant-based café.
A Pivotal Moment
Alysa Ferguson vividly remembers the day her teenage daughter, Daylana, confided in her about her struggles with disordered eating. It was the summer before Daylana started high school, and she expressed her discomfort with how eating was dominating her life.
Understanding the seriousness of the issue, Alysa quickly sought counseling for Daylana. The counselor subsequently recommended they visit a pediatrician. Once the medical tests indicated that Daylana was at significant risk for a severe cardiac episode, she was hospitalized for specialized care.
The Journey to Recovery
Daylana recalls that the rigorous treatment process was incredibly tough, with restrictions even on bathroom visits and walking. Nevertheless, she felt a sense of relief, stating, “It felt like the weight of responsibility had been lifted from my shoulders.”
Upon completing her treatment, Daylana started to reevaluate her life, her values, and her aspirations. Determined to pursue her goal of wellness, she questioned, “What do I truly believe in? How can I feel good about my choices?” This introspection led her to embrace a plant-based diet.
Initially, Alysa was concerned that this might lead to more restrictive eating habits. However, she challenged Daylana to demonstrate how she could navigate this change healthily.
The next day, Daylana surprised her mother with a comprehensive plan outlining how she would implement a vegan diet in a balanced way—complete with recipes, grocery lists, and budget considerations. Impressed, Alysa chose to embark on this journey alongside her daughter.
A Shared Passion and New Venture
The mother-daughter duo enlisted guidance from various professionals, including a naturopath and sports nutritionist, to ensure they were receiving all necessary nutrients.
Before long, Eileen, Alysa’s mother, joined their initiative. Motivated by her own health challenges, Eileen wanted to focus on nourishing herself with wholesome foods, enhancing their family collaboration.
Alysa explains, “Food is what connected us.” They adopted a new perspective on meals, seeing them as holistic experiences rather than simply meat, starch, and vegetables. Their revamped diet is globally influenced and filled with novel traditions; for instance, they cook dishes from different cultures during Christmas.
Daylana continues to confront the stigma surrounding the word “anorexia.” She asserts, “It doesn’t define me.” She emphasizes how labels can pigeonhole individuals, and she desires to receive the same normal treatment as anyone else.
There’s much for Daylana to celebrate; she recently graduated from high school with ambitions of becoming a sports nutritionist. Her journey has included work experience with Erin Ireland, engaging with social media influencers, maintaining her athletic pursuits, and collaborating with her mother to bring their vision for a café to life.
With wisdom beyond her years, Daylana reflects, “Being vulnerable has allowed me to embrace numerous incredible people and experiences in my life.”
Down 2 Earth Plant Parlour is set to open soon in Langley, BC, where this plant-based café will offer the community nourishing food and heartfelt service.
Worried About Someone’s Eating Habits?
If you suspect that you or someone you know struggles with an eating disorder, it’s essential to seek help. Contact a healthcare professional or reach out to specialized organizations like the National Eating Disorder Information Centre.
Alysa reassures, “No one is alone in this. Although disordered eating is not frequently discussed, it’s quite prevalent—perhaps too much so.”
She provides these tips for engaging with someone who may be suffering from an eating disorder.
Be Approachable
Daylana shares, “My mom has always been someone I could talk to without fear of judgment.” Alysa concurs, “Being transparent and genuine with Daylana allowed us to foster open conversations.”
Initiate Conversations
Alysa found that car rides opened the door to meaningful discussions with Daylana. “In these moments, there’s no need for eye contact, making it a more relaxed atmosphere for sharing.”
If concerned about someone’s eating habits, consider inviting them to dine out. Observe whether they are eating and if they seem engaged or distracted.
Plant-Based Kids, Plant-Based Families
Studies indicate that a vegan diet can be beneficial at all life stages when practicedmindfully. If your child is interested in a plant-based diet, Alysa offers the following key suggestions:
- Rather than dismissing their interest, take time to research the advantages and disadvantages together as a family.
- Consider transitioning slowly to a plant-based lifestyle, allowing time to assess how everyone feels during trial periods.
- Stock a healthy pantry: dedicate time on weekends to prepare quick and easy sauces, dips, and essentials that facilitate healthy choices throughout the week.
If you decide to pursue a vegan diet, it’s important to regularly consult with a healthcare provider to ensure all essential nutrients are being met:
- Protein
- Fibre
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Iron
- Zinc
- Iodine
- Calcium
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B12
Your Words Matter
Alysa and Daylana encourage a reevaluation of how we communicate with one another, especially concerning body weight.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach since everyone is triggered differently, Alysa believes we need to be mindful of how we greet people.
Daylana adds, “Phrases like ‘You look so healthy’ in the context of weight loss can be damaging.”
Alysa suggests that recognizing a person’s internal qualities or achievements is more meaningful than commenting on their outward appearance. She recommends asking open-ended questions like, “You seem very happy lately! What’s been bringing you joy?” instead of, “You look great—have you lost weight?”
