Jenny Wallwork launches own foundation

Former England badminton star Jenny Wallwork launched today her charity foundation which will help young people with mental health issues and opened up, explaining that she had to go through some very difficult times as an athlete, suffering from Bulimia.

“With lots of emphasis being placed on my diet, plus the constant weigh-ins, my relationship with food changed dramatically. When I finally got back down to the preferred weight for competing I felt great, mainly due to the fact I could now concentrate on what mattered to me most- playing Badminton.

Two years quickly passed by and despite thinking that I had my eating ‘habit’ under control I slowly began to realise that in actual fact it was controlling me… like an addiction. I was bulimic: I had a mental illness that had taken over my life.” she recalls in ar article published today in her official website.

Once in the top 5 in the world – together with mixed double partner Nathan Robertson, the English player had left the National team just before the London Olympic Games but was still very much involved in the sport, also raising awareness for another Charity “Open arms Malawi”. She also started her own coaching academy, and now takes one more step into helping the youngsters with difficulties.

Double Olympic champion Kelly Holmes supported Wallwork’s initiative : “What is amazing, having suffered from mental health issues myself, is that Jenny is prepared to speak out about her bulimia and the lack of support, which in turn will definitely help others face up to their own problems and for those who are in the position to help with in the future”.

Two events will help her new charity in the future – on november 14th 2015 – Badminton Fundrasier!! A one off chance to play with and against some of Great Britain’s best players past and present. If you enjoy Badminton at any level this will be a great day of fun and games, and on February 20th 2016 for a “Spring Ball” at the Hilton Hotel- Leeds City Centre. A night with some of Great Britain’s most succesful athletes

More information here :

http://www.jennywallworkfoundation.co.uk/