"When I first learned about the opportunity to share our stories of going through treatment at EDCD, I was hesitant. I was hesitant because I did not leave EDCD and go out and “do” recovery perfectly. I have it bumps and road blocks. However, I know for me, I have longed for stories of people who still struggle but are choosing recovery each day. So here is my story. I entered the Eating Disorder Center of Denver in a very dark place. I had be through treatment before and felt tremendous shame in having to enter treatment again. That being said, I still struggled to fully accept I had a problem. The real reason I walked through those doors that day was to stay in good standing with my University. The first few days were the worst, but I soon realized that I did have a problem and that the people at EDCD desired to not only help me, but walk with me on my journey towards recovery. I realized why I had relapsed and I was given tools like art therapy, journaling, relaxation techniques, and visualization to help with deal with overwhelming emotions. The most important gift I was given while at EDCD was the encouragement to pull something from myself that was already there; put a voice to my experience. This is something I already knew I could do, but listening to the lies of the eating disorder caused me to forget. Since leaving EDCD the road to recovery has been anything but perfect for sure, but I have learned to see the beauty in the imperfection. It is a daily choice to stay on this road, but I was well equipped during my time at EDCD and I am grateful. "

"

So my time is done here at EDCD

 

but I still have far to go on the road to recovery.

 

I am nowhere near perfection, and wouldn't’t claim to be,

 

but I have grown in every direction, as far as I can see.

 

I have dreams for the future that were not there before,

 

aspirations I can reach for – even those among the stars.

 

 

I am fighting for my kids, for an abundant life together,

 

where games, trampolines, and snuggles are always there and regular.

 

I am fighting for my husband, for the love we openly share,

 

and deepening our relationship, growing in our care.

 

I am stepping nearer my Heavenly Father, embracing the love He gives,

 

accepting He made me, just as I am, and created me just to be me.

 

 

My friends here have taught me so much more than they can know,

 

affirmations and feedback – both have helped me to grow.

 

Hearing I’m loving and caring and sweet,

 

sensitive, compassionate and outright great,

 

has boosted my confidence, despite my reluctance,

 

to believe and accept I’m becoming more like me.

 

 

I wish every one of you could see how beautiful you are,

 

how your hearts shine through your armor, shining bright as stars.

 

I wish I could help you realize all your hopes and dreams,

 

help you fight that demon within you who has your binded up in reigns.

 

But it’s the fight that makes you stronger, and I can’t deny you that

 

because my dream for you is freedom in this life and in your heart.

 

 

My hope for you is laughter, joy that wells from deep within.

 

My hope for you is peace, serenity coating all the din.

 

I hope your dreams come true and you learn to love the real you,

 

I hope you learn acceptance, grown in confidence, don’t feel blue.

 

I’m trying every day to enrich and love my tree,

 

and each day I’m growing closer to loving the real me.

-- Naomi

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