The diaries of most young women recount the ups and downs of friendships, school crushes, and first jobs. This real-life journal does all that with a twist that can be a lifesaver. Chronicling her life from ages fifteen to twenty-two, aspiring writer Lisa Messinger captured on paper the evolution of her eating disorder, from its development to its eventual treatment. Interspersed throughout this fascinating story, eating disorder expert Merle Cantor Goldberg provides insights into Lisa's struggle and ultimate victory. Set against the backdrop of the "perfect" middle-class family, Lisa's story tells of her need to excel in school and her budding career on the sets of America's most popular television shows. But Lisa also describes her growing compulsion to record every calorie consumed and every pound gained and lost, as her obsessive behavior took control of her life. While Lisa's journey offers a unique view into the nature of an eating disorder, Ms. Goldberg helps identify the causes and signs of the problem as well as the paths towards recovery. "My Thin Excuse can make that important difference in the lives of all those who suffer from this dangerous disorder.

For the thousands of people affected by severe obesity, the decision to undergo weight loss surgery can be a matter of life and death. But it is not a simple procedure. That's why, for many, the decision does not come easily. To help you make the best possible choice, a dynamic team of experts have come together to share their experience, knowledge, and findings about these procedures. Merle Cantor Goldberg is one of this country's leading psychotherapists specializing in eating disorders; Drs. Cowan and Marcus have helped develop many of the techniques used in bariatric surgery, and have also taught these procedures to hundreds of other surgeons. "Weight Loss Surgery begins by asking important questions that must be considered before any decision is made. It then presents a comprehensive overview of pre-op visits, the various weight loss surgeries available, and the post-op recovery period, examining both the psychological and the physical impacts of the surgery. Weight loss surgery is not a minor procedure, but when appropriate, it can save lives. This thoughtful book offers the information you need to make the decision that's right for you.