All stories
I was born as a Muslim, but never knew anything about it. At a time when I was searching for answers to the purpose of my life, I found all the answers.
For myself
When I became a parent, my eating disorder didn’t magically disappear. When she was a baby and I was home alone with her, there was no one to check up on me, no one to HAVE to eat in front of.
Always have hope
It’s been a rocky road but it’s been worth it, and I’ve met some amazing people along the way, including my best friend, whom my life would be so incomplete without.
Why You Are Already 'Sick Enough'
When I first started showing symptoms of anorexia and collapsed at school, the head of pastoral support asked if I had been eating enough. I was in the early stages of anorexia and everything in me wanted to say “No, please help me, I don’t think I’m in control anymore. It started as a diet.”
More than one in three adults (34%) in the UK, who gave an answer, could not name any signs or symptoms of eating disorders, according to a survey conducted by YouGov.
University – a time full of new experiences, new friends, new skills and also new challenges. My first year at university ended up being the most challenging and unpredictable year of my life.
"Male, 40 years old, and anorexic"
If there’s such a thing as a typical anorexic patient, then I’m not that person. I’m a man with an illness broadly estimated to be 80-90% female.
Growing up, Christmas was my absolute favourite time of year and now that I am rid of my eating disorder, I am free to enjoy the festivities once again. However, I spent two awful Christmastimes, the first with bulimia and the second with binge eating disorder.
Thinking about Christmas with an eating disorder
The run up to Christmas can be really exciting: preparing for holidays, time with family and friends, parties, presents and often lots of food. But that excitement can be equalled and even overshadowed by worry, guilt, resentment and panic.
Trekking the Great Wall of China for Beat
The trek challenged me both mentally and physically, and pushed me far out of my comfort zone!
I’d recommend skydiving for Beat to anyone!
I’ve chosen to raise funds for Beat for a very special, personal reason. In the summer of 2013, I was diagnosed with anorexia nervosa.
Being able to raise for Beat is something I'll cherish forever
My partner and I chose the Great North Run to be our challenge because we knew it would be a push for us.