Sometimes it feels like a great deal of courage is needed to just greet another person, especially a complete stranger. Can you imagine the courage required to do an intervention with a stranger?
As reported by CBS’ Steve Hartman on On the Road (5-2-14), seven members of the YMCA in Nashville, TN, did just that. A motley group of women and men of various ages, their own bodies may not have been the picture of fitness. But they did recognize when another young woman’s body was growing too thin—dangerously too thin. They each could have decided to stick to their own business, to not get involved. But they talked together and decided collectively that something must be done.
They were first able to secretly contact the woman’s parents. They learned that Lauryn Lax had a history of anorexia, having been treated for it on several occasions since age ten. That was all the information they needed to hatch their plan.
The exercise group watched for her arrival one day, and as she got out of her car in the parking lot, surrounded her and shared their intent to intervene. Despite her vehement protests, they insisted on bringing her to the hospital to get her vitals checked.
Doctors confirmed certain organs, including her heart, were perilously close to failing, and put her in a treatment program. The gym group’s hearts were nowhere near failing, and by exercising their determination to get involved, had probably saved Lauryn Lax’s life. That’s what she believes.
Now, three years later and thirty-six pounds heavier, a thankful Lauran has completed her doctorate program in occupational therapy. Her goal is to treat people with eating disorders. No doubt, the small group of concerned gym compatriots had exhibited Love Lived Large, and many future anorexia sufferers will benefit.