As Eating Disorder Awareness Week approaches on February 27, we invite you to join regional experts, agencies, nutritionists & mental health professionals for a time of learning, sharing & healing. Meet, greet, and learn from organizations such as Alsana, Overeaters Anonymous, and National Alliance on Mental Illness from 4-5:30. Speaker will present from 5:30-7.

Local Author Ryan Althaus also celebrates the release of his new book, From Emaciated to Emancipated, which will be available at the event.

About the Book:

Ironman Triathlons. ICU Stays. Marathons. Surfing Wipeouts. Dating. Zoom in on any of the momentous occasions in Ryan Althaus’s life, and you’re certain to see someone lurking in the background: his friend, Ed. Ed’s not quite the friend you’re envisioning, though. Ed is short for “eating disorder”, and he has an obnoxious way of infusing himself into every aspect of Ryan’s life – but not for long!

In his debut book From Emaciated to Emancipated, Ryan recounts the moment when he and Ed first crossed paths, as well as the not-so-traditional route he’s taken to ditch Ed thereafter. As anyone with their own Ed will know, recovery is a journey of ups and downs. But Ryan’s lighthearted approach will encourage and inspire you to join in his quest to reclaim his life, laughter and reason for being – without Ed in tow. “A story that bears relevance in the lives of many – far beyond the arena of eating disorders.” – Bill Belichick, Head Coach of the New England Patriots

About the Author:

Rev. Ryan “Mango” Althaus is an ordained minister, licensed sailboat captain, former professional marathon runner and author living in Santa Cruz, California. His passion for destigmatizing mental illness and dual master’s degrees in divinity and communications make him a sought-after voice on mental health in the church. Ryan also hosts a podcast called The Kooky Side of Crazy and leads a nonprofit designed to dismantle faith, social and economic stigmas through art and recreation. You can follow along with all of these endeavors through his website, TheSurfingMango.com.