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I've chosen to fundraise for Bodywhys: The Eating Disorders Association of Ireland, Cork Mental Health Foundation.

My name is Shane, a 22 year old soon to be UCC graduate of Public Health Sciences, and of recently have publicised my battle with anoerxia nervosa. The reason for my goal of €2000 is based on the cost of counsellign a single indivdual with an eating disorder in Ireland. According to average cost of counselling, an indivdual can pay upto €50, if not more, per hour session.
Considering this, to complete treatment a total of 40 sessions is recommended, which comes to a staggering €2000. Now this is just the starting point, as many end up paying greater fees, as stated in the journal whereby a female paid in excess of €300 for an indivdual session.

My main drive is to atleast help one person get their chance to talk, to atleast give that opportunity to one indivdual who may not have the support I had on my journey. Below is my story in battling Anorexia Nervosa:

Since losing my grandfather in 2015, I had extreme issues with my relationship of food, often forcing myself to starve or compensate with over compulsive exercising. I would have countless battles with body dysmorphia every morning and night, before or after eating, on every night in or out. Constantly weighing myself after every meal with the fear I may have gained any bit of weight. It became so obsessive to the point were I eventually weighed 54kg. At this stage I was told my condition was life threatening, that if I didn’t change my lifestyle, I wouldn’t live to see my parents or brother celebrate my graduation.

After I was admitted to hospital, I finally acknowledge my diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa, if it wasn’t for that day, I wouldn’t be alive to write this. The change wasn’t immediate, taking 3-4 years of surrounding myself with positive people and appreciating who I am for myself. Currently I weigh 80kg at the same height, 26kg heavier than the day I was told I wouldn’t reach the age I am now.

The thought of death at the age of 18 isn’t something that should cross anyone’s mind, but unfortunately this is a reality for many people living with anorexia or other mental health conditions. I wanted to post this to say that it is never too late, you are never alone no matter what happens in life. Knowing my family will see me graduate as a Public Health professional brings me to tears. The thought if I were asked 4 years ago where I would be now, I can guarantee it wouldn’t be the same answer. Stay Strong ❤

My battle with Anorexia Nervosa

Created by Shane Creagh Piper

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