JACKSONVILLE, FL – In an unusual case that has captured national attention, Florida resident Adele Edwards revealed her 21-year struggle with an addiction to eating couch cushions and other foam materials, consuming approximately seven couches and two chairs over two decades.
Edwards, featured on TLC’s “My Strange Addiction,” suffers from a rare eating disorder known as Pica, which causes individuals to consume non-food items. Her condition first emerged during childhood when she began chewing on her bed’s foam mattress.
“I can’t help myself. I want to stop, but the urge is so strong,” Edwards said during her television appearance. “The texture is what draws me in – it’s soft and spongy, and I just can’t resist it.”
Medical professionals interviewed for the program expressed serious concerns about the health implications of consuming foam materials.
Dr. Robert Hansen, a gastroenterologist consulted for the show, explained the risks: “Consuming foam materials can lead to life-threatening complications, including intestinal blockages, choking, and exposure to toxic chemicals present in furniture foam.”
The extent of Edwards’ addiction became clear as she detailed her daily consumption habits. She would typically tear small pieces from furniture cushions, focusing particularly on the softer foam found in couch backs and seat cushions.
Her family members reported finding damaged furniture throughout their home, with some pieces completely stripped of their foam filling.
“We’ve had to replace multiple pieces of furniture over the years,” said Edwards’ sister, who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s not just costly – we’re worried about her health. We never know what chemicals might be in these materials.”
The episode highlighted the broader implications of Pica disorder, a condition that affects a small but significant portion of the population.
According to the National Eating Disorders Association, Pica can be associated with other underlying conditions and often requires comprehensive psychological and medical treatment.
Following her appearance on TLC, Edwards began seeking professional help to address her addiction.
Editor’s Note: The case has been documented by multiple reputable media outlets and medical journals discussing unusual manifestations of Pica disorder.
Sources:
- TLC Network Documentation (2011)
- National Eating Disorders Association Reports
- Contemporary news coverage from 2011
- Medical journal entries discussing Pica disorder