8This book is the first in a series of eating disorder recovery books. My HealED book series will include three memoirs. This memoir details my journey from anorexia nervosa to recovery. Diagnosed at the age of 12, I battled my eating disorder off and on for nearly 20 years. My approach in this book is a candid one. I use a combination of compassion and education as well as "tough love." In my own treatment this was the winning combination. I focus on what the eating disorder does for you, or what purpose it serves. I approach the eating disorder as a symptom of a much deeper issue. Every piece of the eating disorder must be treated, there are no shortcuts! Each time I relapsed, I was triggered by something different. The eating disorder served a different purpose each time. I candidly share my experiences in an eating disorder inpatient unit, partial hospital program, intensive outpatient program and outpatient services. I openly talk about the eating disorder mindset, or "voice," as we refer to it in the treatment community. I will expose this negative self-talk as one of many of the eating disorders lies! There are topics presented in this memoir that will require an open mind. These topics were presented to me during my recovery journey, and I had to at least consider them myself, in the context of the anorexia. I offer a "safe space" workbook and journal at the back of this memoir. I sincerely hope that my testimony can offer insight into what fuels your own eating disorder, foster hope, give you strength to choose (or continue with) recovery, and offer wisdom on your journey. Sometimes we must "borrow hope" until we are able to foster our own. Let this book be your "borrowed hope." Heather currently resides in Northern New England, where she enjoys a simple, peaceful life. Heather enjoys a myriad of hobbies, including cooking and creative baking, art/craft projects, hiking and camping, gardening and volunteering at an Animal Rescue League. She is an active member of the prepping, preparedness & survival community and her online church. Her Faith in God is front and center in her life. Heather is available for online consultation, small group presentations and recovery-focused conversation. She can be reached @ autumn_angel74@outlook.com and all email contact will be reviewed upon making a connection. A connection is not guaranteed.