Natalie: ACUTE Changed My Life

When I was 17 years old, I was struggling with an eating disorder and barely hanging on by a thread. I was knocking on deaths door, but ACUTE was my saving grace. When I admitted I was scared – scared for my life, of where I was. I was terrified of everything. From the moment I walked in those doors screaming and confused about where my life had taken me, not once was I made to feel like I was in the wrong place.

The staff at ACUTE made me feel like what I was doing was worth the fight and me, my wellbeing, and health were worth the fight. Over my stay I was constantly trying my best and they saw that. My doctors recognized my hard work and saw me for what I could do, not the position I was in. That was integral to my recovery.

The staff made every effort to keep my spirits high. Every nurse felt like family. Every doctor I spoke with was compassionate and understanding. Through such a difficult time in my life, this place brought me back. I will always be grateful for what ACUTE has done for me.

As of today, I am completely weight restored and healthy. I am working a full-time job working with children that fulfill my heart. I have the energy to play and engage with them. I was diagnosed with trichotillomania when I was 13 and it was at its worst while I was in the midst of my eating disorder. I am glad to say I am nearly two years free of trichotillomania as well! I have gotten to travel more with my good health and have since gone on a once in a lifetime trip to Indonesia. I also received my advanced scuba diver certification because I’m now healthy enough to go diving again. I have long blonde curls and a healthy body that I am grateful for.

It was worth every fight. I will never be able to really express what ACUTE has done for me. But know that ACUTE has had a tremendous impact on my life and recovery. It saved my life.