RAF medical receptionist walking 1.25million steps for eating disorder charity

Brooke Williamson, 22, from Tattershall, works at the Medical Centre at RAF Coningsby.

She is undertaking the challenge throughout this month – the equivalent of 25 marathons – to raise awareness and funds for a cause close to her heart.

Brooke has lived with an eating disorder for over 10 years and was ‘in denial’ for much of that time. When she first approached her previous GP for help, she was dismissed because her weight fell into a "healthy" BMI range. The negative response left her reluctant to seek help again, and the eating disorder continued to take over her life.

Eventually, Brooke reached out to BEAT's online support service. For the first time, she felt heard and believed. BEAT is the UK's eating disorder charity, providing helplines, online support and information for anyone affected by eating disorders. With their encouragement, she registered with a new GP and successfully accessed treatment through a specialist eating disorder service in Lincolnshire.

"I would never have had the confidence to ask for help again, had they not have believed in me," said Brooke. "I wanted to support a charity that was more personal to myself. BEAT gave me the support and belief I needed when I was at my lowest point."

The 1.25 million steps represent the, at least, 1.25 million people living with an eating disorder in the UK. Brooke was taken aback when she discovered this figure on BEAT's website, as eating disorders are rarely discussed publicly.

From 8am each morning, Brooke walks on an under-desk treadmill at her workstation, fitting in around seven hours of walking during her working day before completing the remaining steps at home with her two dogs. She has adapted her desk with screen-raisers to enable her to continue her work as normal whilst walking.

Patients visiting the medical centre have been both amused and impressed by the sight of Brooke on her treadmill, with many describing it as a "great invention". Some colleagues have been inspired to move more throughout their own working day.

Brooke has been a medical receptionist at RAF Coningsby since October 2022. Her brother and partner both serve in the RAF, and her late uncle was stationed at RAF Coltishall.

“I had some quad pain early in the challenge and an unexpected dental issue,” said Brooke, “but I’m determined to complete the 1.25 million steps. I really hope this will encourage others struggling with eating disorders feel empowered to seek support and break down the stigma.”

Wing Commander Emma Roe, Senior Medical Officer at RAF Coningsby, said: "Brooke's courage in sharing her story and taking on this incredible challenge demonstrates the resilience we see every day in our RAF family. Eating disorders affect far more people than many realise, and they don't discriminate based on appearance or BMI. I'm immensely proud of Brooke for turning her experience into action that will help others.”

You can donate to Brooke’s efforts at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/brooke-williamson-1-25-million-steps-for-beat