Anorexic Model Isabelle Caro Showed Everyone the Reality of the Illness that Took Her Life

CHICAGO, Dec. 30, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- The horrifying photos of Isabelle Caro first displayed in 2007 were her last message to the world about her disease. First appearing during fashion week in Italy, it was Italian photographer Oliviero Toscani's attempt "to use the naked body to show everyone the reality of this illness, caused in most cases by the stereotypes imposed by the world of fashion." And according to Kimberly Dennis, M.D., medical director at Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center in Chicago, the fact that the "reality" didn't seem to stop Caro is hard to understand if you've never struggled with disordered eating.

"It saddens me that she died of the disease. I admire her courage in exposing the disease on a public level. We need to acknowledge how serious this disease is," said Dr. Dennis.  "At the same time, for the women and their families who continue to struggle with eating disorders, I want to extend a message of hope.  There are effective treatments."

"This model took the first step of a 12-step recovery model. She admitted publicly that she was powerless over her anorexia, and it caused significant unmanageability in her life -- losing teeth, hair, breasts for example," continued Dr. Dennis. "The healing steps and solution steps are outlined in the next 11 steps."

Dr. Dennis added, "We facilitate this healing at Timberline Knolls. We are unique in using the powerful combination of 12 step facilitation therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help women with eating disorders, which could kill them, not only to stay alive, but to recover and live happy, joyous, free and abundant lives."

As many as 10 million females and one million males are fighting a life and death battle with anorexia or bulimia, and another 25 million are fighting a binge eating disorder, according to the National Eating Disorders Association. Eating disorders are usually shrouded in secrecy, but those who are suffering need to know that reaching out for assistance is the first step to getting back on track.

Located outside Chicago, Timberline Knolls is an innovative residential treatment center designed exclusively for women. The center specializes in helping women ages 12 and older, offering treatment for eating disorders, substance abuse, co-occurring disorders and mood disorders.

SOURCE Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center