Arrimage Estrie, the Sherbrooke-based organization focused on encouraging the development of a healthy and positive body image, will be celebrating its fifth anniversary this coming Friday with a special gathering at the Capsule Bistro-Cinéma on Wellington Street South. The evening will feature an introduction to ‘Rockabilly Jive’ dancing and a performance by the band Les Kick Ball Change as well as free cotton candy, cupcakes and popcorn for all those present. Anyone who shows up dressed in “50s’ style” will be eligible for door prizes. “It is a celebration and a chance to get to know the work of the organization,” said Julie Witty Chagnon, Director of Arrimage Estrie, explaining that the party is open to members of the organization and non-members alike. “People associate Arrimage Estrie with eating disorders, but it is so much bigger than just that; healthy body image is an issue for everyone and it is important to support it.” Chagnon said that it was a shortage of resources relating to body image in the area that initially kicked off the founding of the group five years ago. Although people were free to turn to the local health and social services, all of the specialized groups focusing on disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, hyperphagia, orthorexia, or bigorexia were in either Quebec City or Montreal. Since its founding, the organization has been focused on valuing body diversity and advocating an anti-dieting approach based on listening to the signs of hunger and satiety and the pleasure of eating. See full story in the Wednesday, April 11th edition of The Record.
Arrimage Estrie celebrating five years this Friday
By Gordon Lambie
