HELLOOOOO!

So, with Covid putting events on hold for the meanwhile, my lovely mummy and I have decided to put our daily exercise allowance to good use and walk our own half marathon on 25th April 2021!

We have decided to raise money for Beat in support of Eating Disorders Awareness Week (1st-7th March). 

It is a charity that is very important to both of us. Eating disorders are horrible, all-consuming diseases that are mentally and physically debilitating. I have dealt with disordered eating for a number of years and, as this took a turn for the worse in 2020, I became quite unwell. Having previously been diagnosed with Bulimia Nervosa, I was re-diagnosed with 'Atypical' Anorexia Nervosa (imo - there is nothing atypical about being a 'normal' weight and being unwell). I was constantly at the doctors having various appointments and tests at a time of national lockdown where I couldn't see my family. I personally turned to Beat for support, a pair of ears to listen as I processed my new, scary diagnosis, and found attending the moderated support groups online very helpful in feeling less alone at such an isolating time. I know that Beat also provided support for my mum and others who were close to me at the time on how they could best support me through this time; this is something I am incredibly grateful for. Eating disorders don't just affect the people with the disorder. As I said before, they are all-consuming diseases - they push people away, they hurt the people around us and they make day-to-day life incredibly challenging. The impact my eating disorder had on those closest to me when I was really unwell is truly heartbreaking and I think it is so important that those supporting someone through an eating disorder have somewhere to turn for advice and support.

It is quite nerve-wracking putting my experience out there so explicitly, but I hope my honesty will help you realise how just how important this charity is to the both of us. During these uncertain times, the services of Beat are in more demand than ever before. We know that times are tough for everyone right now, but if you could spare a few pennies to help them continue to support people like us - we'd be very grateful!

Lots of love,

Hannah (and Sandie)