When we think of beauty queens, we often think of anorexically thin Barbie dolls that maintain their weight through extreme dieting or purging. What a refreshing change to meet Miss America 2011, Miss Nebraska, Teresa Scanlan. The 17-year-old does not lack in the beauty department, but also sports a positive and healthy body image. She is the full package — as articulate and talented, as she is beautiful. Most importantly, Teresa is a positive role model and plans to make her Miss America platform the battle against eating disorders.
So what exactly is a platform? The Miss America Organization introduced the platform concept in 1989. This requires each contestant to choose an issue that is important to her and also of relevance to our country. The newly crowned Miss America will embark on a year long national speaking tour, travelling about 20,000 miles a month, to increase awareness about her chosen platform. Past Miss Americas have promoted a variety of causes, including homelessness, HIV/AIDS prevention, domestic violence, diabetes awareness, character education, and literacy.
This is the first time that a Miss America has chosen eating disorders, or any mental health issue, as her platform. Although Teresa has not shared why selected this platform, it is likely that she has known someone who has struggled with anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, as many as 10 million females and 1 million males have an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia. Millions more are struggling with binge eating disorder. Because of the secretiveness and shame associated with eating disorders, many people do not disclose that they are struggling.
Teresa herself has a positive view of eating and body image. The 17-year-old says that she "never passed up a cookie" while on her journey to winning the crown
Amber, a 20-year-old Yardley, Pa. resident is very positive about the role of the new Miss America in raising awareness about eating disorders. Amber, who is newly in recovery from anorexia, feels that her own past in beauty pageants was a factor in her anorexia. “It’s great to see someone who has a positive view of herself. I saw the swimsuit photos. Teresa looked beautiful without looking sick,” Amber commented. “I know that with her help more people will understand that eating disorders are unhealthy.”
Teresa would like to hear your story. You can send her congratulation note or share your story about facing or overcoming an eating disorder by writing to her at: 2720 Applewood Road, Gering, Nebraska 69341.
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