‘I love living’: Nikki Grahame seen discussing anorexia battle with Vanessa Feltz in old Big Brother clip
Reality star has died of complications from the eating disorder
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Your support makes all the difference.A video of Nikki Grahame bravely opening up about her struggles with anorexia is being shared following the reality star’s death.
The former Big Brother contestant, who appeared on series seven, died of complications from the eating disorder, aged 38, on Friday (9 April).
Grahame’s family recently started a GoFundMe page asking friends to support the reality star, with her mother appearing on This Morning earlier this month to discuss her condition. The news was announced on the same page on Saturday (10 April).
Grahame shared her experiences of anorexia while appearing on Ultimate Big Brother in 2010 after being selected to participate as one of the most famous contestants from the show’s 10-year history.
In the clip, she speaks frankly to broadcaster Vanessa Feltz – who previously appeared on Celebrity Big Brother in 2001 – about her attempts to “live a healthy life” after struggling with anorexia as a child.
“I’m so lucky to be here after everything that happened,” she tells Feltz in the clip, adding: “I love living.”
She adds: “So what if I put on weight? I’m having the time of my life being in here.”
Related article:
Big Brother’s Nikki Grahame starts GoFundMe for anorexia treatment as eating disorder returns
The reality star also wrote about her experiences in the books Dying to Be Thin (2009)and Fragile (2012).
Grahame’s anorexia “worsened” in recent months, with her representative stating in March 2021: “Those closest to her are doing everything they can to assist with her recuperation, most notably in the form of a GoFundMe page.
Grahame finished fifth in series seven of Big Brother and came second in Ultimate Big Brother.
For anyone struggling with the issues raised in this piece, eating disorder charity Beat’s helpline is available 365 days a year on 0808 801 0677.
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NCFED offers information, resources and counselling for those suffering from eating disorders, as well as their support networks. Visit eating-disorders.org.uk or call 0845 838 2040.
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