December of 2024, I hosted a Christmas themed bake sale on my university campus to raise money for Beat. Since 2023, I have struggled with anorexia. A condition which took away the enjoyment out of my life, I became completely obsessed and anxious with health, food and my body. Starting university and being isolated from my family and friends, I started to believe I was not “good enough” or “thin enough”, so I put all my efforts into making myself smaller. Shrinking my body, personality, and passions. Taking many opportunities away from the typical first year university experience. When I first realised I had a problem I was too scared to go to the doctor's, the University or even my family. As I did not feel “sick enough” to get the help I needed.
But after talking to a Beat staff member, they provided me with the validation I needed to gain the courage to reach out for help. Opening up to my family and even being able to speak to the doctors, I was recognised that regardless of my weight, that I was “sick enough” and was able to advocate for myself to receive treatment. I spoke to my tutor and staff members at my university, who have been very supportive and understanding. I have been extremely fortunate to have gotten the quick help I needed from the NHS, whilst so many others must sadly wait or are refused treatment all together.
There should be no “sick enough” when it comes to an eating disorder, and more people should be receiving the support and help they need. As if left, untreated eating disorders can worsen and cause more harm. From my personal experience, this drove me to plan and complete this fundraiser. Before recovery, baking was an enjoyable hobby I had, I enjoyed making delicious treats for myself and my loved ones. However, my ED dimmed my joy for the hobby, becoming something that would cause me anxiety, guilt or way of control.
But since I started recovery, I have found joy again in baking and making food I once had. So, with the help of my amazing mum, the university student union and some of my course mates, I was able to make a range of delicious Christmas themed treats from rocky road to gingerbread. Raising a total of approximately £421 from our sale. I appreciate all the donations and support I received from family, friends and strangers, and was glad to have met many lovely people eager to support the charity.
As a young student, I was nervous at first about doing the fundraiser but now I am grateful I did it. So, if you are feeling apprehensive, my biggest advice is to do a fundraiser which incorporates the things you love. From baking, painting to crocheting anything you want. Even if you feel like you have not raised a lot of money, every bit helps to support an amazing charity.
Every person is unique, and with this, everyone’s struggles and challenges are individual, and cannot be compared. But regardless of people’s differences, people deserve to get the help they need.
Thank you again, Beat, for everything you do.
Want to set up your own fundraiser, like Georgia? Head to our fundraising page here: Do your own fundraising
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