Malinda Ann’s Story

Site created on June 8, 2021

My story as of 12/31/2021:

On January 1, 2020, I  decided to participate in the 2020 Portraits of Health project by John Cruice Photography. This was the first time I shared my story with the quote: ‘A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.’

My journey of recovery from an eating disorder is similar to my experience with running. My path has not been linear – there have been steps forwards & steps backwards. I take one step at a time – sometimes joyfully, sometimes painfully. I decided to share my experience, strength & hope in the midst of my journey so that others know that they are not alone & healing is possible.

Unfortunately, I continue to struggle greatly on my path.

On March 23, 2020, I entered treatment for the second time since 2007.

On June 30, 2020, I was discharged from treatment because I had to return to work.

On March 15, 2021, I returned to treatment for the third time.

On March 31, 2021, I shared my story with Virginia Sole-Smith in The New York Times article “Trapped in the House with an Eating Disorder” to help raise awareness for the rise in eating disorders during the pandemic.

On May 14, 2021, I was discharged from virtual partial hospitalization program because the program suddenly closed.

On May 17, 2021, I was admitted to a virtual intensive outpatient program while waiting to receive assessments from the only other two virtual eating disorder programs approved by my insurance.

On June 1, 2021, I was devastated  by another unexpected death of another compassionate person who helped me during my recovery process. Grateful for every moment of connection, no matter how brief. The pain I feel when the connection ends reminds me of how much I care. Thanks to each person I’ve encountered on my path who has made such an impact on my life. 

On June 11, 2021, I participated in the "RISE" photo book project with Kristen Kidd Photography to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the National Association for Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD).

As I continue to work towards recovery, I’m advocating for  ANAD,  National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA),  and Eating Disorders Coalition (EDC). I am also drawing,  writing about my experience & compiling information about eating disorder treatment and recovery.

It hasn’t been easy to ask for help during the pandemic.

Thank you for your support during this difficult time.

Newest Update

December 31, 2021

Journal entry by MALINDA ANN HILL —

Malinda Hill, a trained art therapist, used colored pencil to create this blue-and-red figure on her last day of in-person treatment for an eating disorder.
 
Recommitting to treatment 
 
In order to take care of myself, I made the difficult decision to re-enter treatment for an eating disorder, depression, anxiety and PTSD. I first entered treatment at the beginning of the pandemic but returned to work too soon and suffered the consequences. Additionally, I’ve been sharing my experience with mental illness on social media in hopes that others will know they are not alone and it’s important to take care of your mental health.

— Malinda Hill of Charlottesville, Virginia
 
 
 
PBS NewsHour / CANVAS / Arts
Updated on Dec 13, 2021 11:11 AM EST — Published on Dec 9, 2021 6:02 PM EST
Read More of the journal titled "December 31, 2021"
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