Hope Inc. Overcoming Anorexia and Schizoaffective Disorder

Celebrate Mental Health Week by attending this author talk with a local writer at Gosnells Library.

At the age of 14, Kate Purcell developed an eating disorder that has become all too common - anorexia. She became obsessed with reducing her calorie intake, to the point of worrying that even using toothpaste would make her gain weight. Kate grew thinner and thinner, until one day the scales she stood on registered just 29 kilograms.

Kate was hospitalised 10 times, including a 7-month stint at the Hollywood Clinic in Perth. Over time, she began to overcome the most severe aspects of her anorexia, but life took a dangerous new turn when Kate started going to rave parties and taking recreational drugs.

Social anxiety and depression followed, then a psychotic episode (and hitting rock bottom) when Kate was 24. At age 26, she was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. As part of her treatment, Kate was required to take a medication that caused weight gain as a side effect. As she struggled to battle her schizoaffective disorder, Kate found herself on the precipice of also having an eating disorder again.

Kate Purcell is now a local writer, and the author of "Hope Inc. Overcoming Anorexia and Schizoaffective Disorder". While her journey is still ongoing, her story is one of strength and resilience. Join us at Gosnells Library on Saturday the 4th of October, for an author talk by Kate about her book, her story, and her most powerful message - "With the right treatment, tools, and support, anything is possible".

Adults only. Bookings are essential and open to the public on the 19th of September 2025.

This is a public event open to the whole community.