Johanna's Story

Joanna was a good student. She had a a very good friend, Clare. Joanna always felt short and
dumpy compared to her. Her friend Clare's boyfriend was the most good-looking boy at school, and
Joanna felt jealous.
Joanna started to hate her own appearance. Joanna went out with a boy, Nick, but he laughed at her.
Her inferiority complex got even worse.
She began to refuse food and go running every night. She lost weight quickly, and she felt very
proud of it. But her friend Clare was worried about her, and she and Joanna's parents made Joanna
agree to see a doctor.
Dr. Parker convinced her on that she had the strength to overcome her illness.
Six months later, she met Billy, who had been anorexic too, and they became very close.
Now Joanna doesn't compare herself to Clare any more. She still has bad days, but she is in control
and positive.