Allegra Versace Beck is finally being treated for her long battle with anorexia.

The Versace heir, who inherited the fashion house when she turned 18, reportedly weighs a mere 70 pounds and is on the brink of death. However, her mother, Donatella, and father, ex-model, Paul Beck, are preparing to sue two publications who reported on the 20-year-olds condition.

London's Evening Standard newspaper and Italy's Corriere della Sera newspaper falsely quoted Donatella.

According to both publications, the designer said, "Anorexia is consuming her...The doctors are doing all they can to snatch her away from this cruel disease."

Both newspapers also insisted that Allegra is being treated in a hospital. However, her parents say that she is getting healthy in the privacy of her own home.

Donatella and Paul released a joint statement, saying, "Our daughter, Allegra, has been battling anorexia, a very serious disease, for many years. She is receiving the best medical care possible to help overcome this illness and is responding well. Allegra is not at present staying in any hospital, she is living in her private residence and her condition does not cause particular concerns. As parents, we are doing our best to protect our daughter. However, due to numerous media reports, we want to let everyone know that we appreciate their concern for Allegra, and we ask that her privacy be respected at this time."

Donatella has battled cocaine addiction in recent years and spent time recuperating in rehab.

Allegra's medical treatment comes as the fashion industry is working hard to promote a healthier body image. In Italy, models are required to visit a doctor to be declared healthy.

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READER COMMENTS (1)
April 5, 2007 - 04:48AM
The Problem of Anorexia

It is characterized by a distorted image of ones own body. Usually the victim thinks that they are too large. It also has other mental effects, including a lowered level of sociality, poor performance in school or work, and deterioration of relationships with family and friends. All of these things combine to make it a terrible thing for a person to suffer through. It is a huge problem today, and if we understand it then we can take steps towards preventing it or treating it.

Anorexia Nervosa generally stems from the victim feeling negative about her own body. This is usually onset by seeing the perfect standards that society has set in the form of women who are so skinny that they are unhealthy. Girls who are naturally a few pounds overweight may feel like they are ridiculously large
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