Some of you vets might remember me from when I was first around the boards in 2001, but to those that don't, I'll share my story.
My name is Carlie and I'm a teenager (I get in trouble for posting my age I think). I've had my ED for a good 3 years now and what a journey it has been. From anorexia and over excersising, chewing and spitting, to my decent into bulimia....its been h#ll. My road to recovery has been a difficult one. I've been inpatient 5 times in the course of 2 years...I've run away from home...taken drugs...self harmed....anything in the name of my eating disorder. One thing I have learned though...I'm stronger than my ED. I can safely say I'm in recovery now. I've maintained a healthy weight for 3 months now...haven't purged or restricted in 2 1/2 weeks...have a job...heck I'm finally living my life. It's a feeling I never thought I'd get back, but here I am with a success story. I'm writting a book which will be published within the year, I've recieved a phone call from Oprah to be on an upcoming show (still don't know if I'm going to do it though) and life is treating me pretty well. I have an amazing boyfriend and for the first time in 3 years...I'm able to look in the mirror and smile. A miracle? No; A well earned journey back to life.

HI!
CONGRATULATIONS!!! That is so amazing that you are beating your ed. Two and a half weeks without restricting or purging- that is such a huge accomplishment. I hope it turns into 21/2 months, then years, then forever until it only seems natural to not restrict or purge. Keep up the good work! Way to go! Its really awesome that you are writing a book about it (what is the title?), and i really hope you consider the oportunity to go on Oprah. I've always wished that they would talk about these issues( eds, self harm, etc.) It seems to me that shows like hers tend to much to sensationalize them and so that eds are only talked about in terms of modles or actresses. I think it would be great to have a non celebrity in public talking about it and letting people know that eds are not a way to become "beautiful" like celibrities but rather are illnesses that consume your life. So any way, congratulations again. I wish you the best.

Love,
Louisa

Hi, Carlie. :)

I'm not sure if you would remember me or not. I was here around the same time as you and I remember you posting.

I just wanted to say congratulations to you, you've done an increadible thing reaching the recovery stage. I knew you would make it okay. :) You were ALWAYS so full of advice and support for the other members here and I know a lot of people missed you and worried about you when you left.

Congratulations again, and good luck with everything. :)

Take care,
Ashlee