Bobbi Jo: ACUTE Helped Me Embrace Recovery

My entire life I desired the thin ideal. I wasn’t just in competition with myself, but with others who were completely unaware of it. In this pursuit I adhered to every fad diet and overexercised. From the outside it would seem like no one could tell – I competed in sports, got married and was taking care of my three wonderful children. Then an event in my life caused me to start losing weight and it was so easy. My disorder slowly worsened over the years. Friends and family members would make comments about my appearance and health, and I would steer the conversation away from the subject. I didn’t want anyone to know.

What was once easy to explain away became difficult to ignore when the severe medical complications became apparent. I couldn't think clearly, was losing my vision and I even felt unsafe driving with my children. My family encouraged me to see my physician. Thankfully my doctor was aware of ACUTE and explained that they were the only program that could address the severity of my medical complications. 

My entire world has changed since I was admitted. The staff at ACUTE was so encouraging and understanding. They understood my journey – where I have been, where I was and where I could be if I chose to embrace recovery. I had never been hospitalized for anything other than for delivering my children, and this unfamiliar environment was uncomfortable. Despite these personal difficulties, the staff at ACUTE supported me throughout all of it during my stay, laughing and crying with me when I needed it. They helped me embrace recovery even when I wanted to give up.

The staff of ACUTE was professional, knowledgeable and empathetic. Without their efforts I don’t know if I could have done it. They helped to set me up with a team upon discharge to continue my recovery. Their expertise and guidance set me up for success. Without my team, my family and my friends, I don't think I could have fought this battle. My life looks completely different than it would have if I had stayed on the path of my active eating disorder. Although I am in recovery, I am still fighting every day for it. It has not been easy, but it has been worth it. As much as I loved and continue to love the work ACUTE does, I do not hope to go back. 

To all those in recovery: you have a team fighting for you. You are not alone!