Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of all mental health illnesses targeting all ages, gender, ethnicity and religion across the globe, with more and more people suffering each day. Approximately 1.6 million people in the UK are directly effected by an eating disorder. They are most common in females aged 14-25, but 11 percent of recorded cases are also found in male sufferers. Being underweight is just one possible symptom of certain  eating disorders, but there are many different categories which aren't always obvious to others by someone's  physical appearance. And believe it or not, they aren't just about eating. Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that have a major impact on virtually every part of someone's life, with even tasks as simple as getting dressed in the mornings or sitting for car journeys becoming incredibly difficult. 

Unfortunately as the number of people suffering increases, the more frustrated the services have become  (which in Wales is extremely worrying since there are very little support systems to begin with,)  and the longer people are waiting for help allowing their conditions to deteriorate into potentially life threatening positions. It's time to change this and unless we fundraise/raise awareness aswell as pressure the government to make changes, then the impacts of these illnesses are only going to get worse. The average wait to receive appropriate treatment is currently 3 and a half years, but early intervention has been proven to be key for a full recovery. 

As many people know I was diagnosed with Anorexia nervosa at just aged 13. It had a huge impact on not just my own life, but my families too. Constant hospital appointments, admissions hours away from home, arguments, tears, missing school, losing contact with friends and becoming completely isolated from the world outside my windows was the reality of most my teenage years. But with a lot of strength and determination it's not where I am anymore, and I cannot thank every person especially my family and close friends that have helped me get to the place I am today. Some days still have their storms, but recovery for anyone will always be a work in process and the biggest lesson I've learnt is never to look back. As my 21st birthday fast approaches, I've decided it's my turn after 8 long years to give something back and help support others who are currently in the same position as I once was. 

Eating disorder awareness week 2018 is taking place between 26th February- 4th March, and this sponsored walk alongside my extremely supportive sister, boyfriend and father will be my contribution to this years fundraising. We will be wearing funky/embarrassing socks whilst walking pen-y-fan because BEAT's chosen theme is "sock it to eating disorders.' From first hand experience I know how vital charities such as BEAT can be to anyone who is struggling and am keen to raise as much money as possible . Any donations no matter how big or small will be hugely appreciated by myself, my family, BEAT and everyone suffering across the UK. 

Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page and for reading the information above.