A Journey Toward Hope and Fulfillment - My First Treatment Stay

Throughout her road to recovery, Deena kept a journal and shares an excerpt from her writing: “I had been seeing my doctor monthly to have my blood counts checked. They said I was in need of a blood transfusion if I didn't do something about my health soon.” 

With raw honesty, she takes us through her personal journey, sharing the daily routines that masked her struggle and revealing the weight of secrecy and difficulty opening up to her partner, Brian. Her story is a stark reminder of the reality many face alone, underlining the critical need to understand this disease, not just for the sufferers but also for their support network.

Brian recalls his frustration in watching Deena seek medical help and weighing in at a mere 57 pounds as an adult woman at 5’7” tall and how the doctors just kept suggesting different tests instead of providing actual treatment solutions.   

Eventually, Deena checked into an inpatient facility for weight loss in California. She figured out ways to make others believe she was getting better and was released after three months. Soon after, her weight plummeted again, and the cycle continued.    

In this episode, Brian and Deena recount what led to her first treatment experience and the disappointment of searching for answers from trusted experts without any luck. 

In this episode, you’ll also hear:

• The compulsive side of eating disorders 
• Deena’s trauma, tricks, and treatment experience 
• Realizing the difference between trying vs. doing 

Must-listen moments: 

[00:03:06] At the same time, I knew if I didn't go somewhere and get help, I wouldn't have long to live. I was living on spared time as it was. 

[00:06:43] We'll say it over and over again. This is a family disease and really a disease that eats families.

[0:09:48] Just as much as an alcoholic Hides the bottles from you so that you don't see the disease, it's the same way with an eating disorder. Right, you're gonna do these things that affect your weight so that you don't see the disease. 

[00:21:51] I remember thinking at the time, okay, this is great while she's here, but what's gonna happen when we go home?

[0:26:31] When I was in treatment, my dad said something to me one time… we were sitting with the doctors, and I was like, “I'm trying, I'm trying,” and he's like, “Deena, you have to stop trying, you just have to do it.” And those words hit me like a rock because I really didn't think my dad gave a crap about me, and something about saying that really made me wake up and do it. 

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