Olympic diver shares personal journey

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - It wasn't long ago that West Lafayette resident Kimiko Soldati was gracing the covers of magazines and diving towards the ultimate goal, the Olympics.

A devastating eating disorder almost crushed that dream.

"It started with the obsession of body and body weight and body image," Soldati said.

She said some of the very same characteristics that made her a champion also led to an eating disorder: bulimia.

"In diving the goal is perfect tens. So, that is what you are striving for, perfection. And I was totally under the illusion that I could achieve it. Not just in diving, but in body weight and body image," Soldati said.

At one point Soldati was spending every free moment working out. She said she was obsessed with every calorie going in her body.

"It was a monster. It just took over my life," Soldati said.

Unlike many who struggle with an eating disorder Soldati came forward to ask for help.

"I knew I couldn't control it anymore," Soldati said.

It took time and a lot and hard work, but she overcame the eating disorder. Now she shares her message with others.

"I want to have a message of hope that you can get through this. You can get over this. It's not an easy road by any means," Soldati said.

Today, Soldati and her family live in West Lafayette. Her husband, Adam, is the head diving coach at Purdue and Kimiko volunteers as an assistant coach. Together, they are a powerful team.

You can view the full 30-minute interview with Soldati above.

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