Dying to Be Perfect

Book excerpt: Calling upon the same inner strength and faith that got her through her son TJ’s tragic death at age 22, Susan Barry decided to share their story. Complete with photographs, poems and journals from TJ’s personal lockbox, the result is a gift to the families and friends of those suffering the terrible toll of anorexia nervosa—and to all who seek insight into a disorder that is widely misunderstood, difficult to treat, and too often fatal. Dying to Be Perfect details TJ’s journey from bright, active high school student to a young man who is isolated, desperate, and consumed by the disorder he has battled for nearly a decade. Fighting alongside him every step of the way is his brave and tenacious mother, who tries one strategy after another for curing TJ—everything from bargaining and tough love, to forcible commitment. In addition to her deft and sensitive recounting of his story, Barry has included solid advice to desperate parents, insight for those treating this disorder, and writings from others whose lives he touched. In this unforgettable book, TJ lives on and offers a beacon of hope for anorexia sufferers and their loved ones. Dying to Be Perfect, WILL make a difference. This is simply an incredible story.