Eating disorder clinic closes doors

CLARENCE, N.Y. (WIVB) - Millions of men, women, children and teens suffer from some sort of eating disorder. Now a northtowns mental health clinic designated to treat these problems has closed its doors without warning.

It's called Avalon, a treatment center in Clarence for eating disorders. It's owner Art Boese is on the verge of bankruptcy and has closed down the operation leaving about 65 outpatients without a place to go for team treatment.

Ashley Chudy and Kelsey O'Gorman, are good friends who both suffer from anorexia, a life threatening eating disorder, characterized by an excessive fear of gaining weight.

Now as Christmas approaches, one of the most difficult times for them, they have learned that Avalon, the center that has helped them reclaim their lives,has shut down for good. What are they feeling now?

"Abandoned and confused," said Chudy.

Art Boese founded Avalon Centers after his 30-year-old daughter was diagnosed with Bulimia, another type of eating disorder. He says the medical community in western New York did not support his centers and that he lost $1.8 million of his own money trying to fill a need in the community.

One source told News 4 Avalon suffered from staff turnover and a lack of strong clinical direction. Boese says his facility was well run and helped a lot of people.

Ashley suffered a setback just before her wedding in October. After the honeymoon she went back for treatment.

Ashley and Kelsey will be among many of Avalon's outpatients taking part in an emergency meeting with a social worker who is trying desperately to help give the clients direction.

Ashley's parents have started a foundation with a mission to open a new residential treatment facility. If you want to contact the Weinsteins you can e-mail them here.