Labour MP and disability campaigner speaks out on eating disorder battle

Health & Fitness
13 Mar 2026 • 4:57 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Labour MP Marie Tidball has revealed her teenage battle with anorexia, aiming to shed light on disabled women's experiences with eating disorders.
  • Ms Tidball, a prominent disability campaigner, developed anorexia at 14 following the amputation of her leg, with the illness persisting for four years.
  • She explained that her frustration with her physical form turned into an obsession, with the eating disorder offering a sense of control over her body.
  • A turning point in her recovery came from her desire to be a mother, which gave her a reason to get better and signalled a future.
  • Ms Tidball highlighted that many disabled women's struggles with eating disorders are linked to their body image and identity, calling for greater awareness of this taboo.

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