Hope started off by speaking about her childhood and then spoke about her admission to a hospital and how difficult she found managing her eating disorder which she explained as being like ‘an inner voice’.
Hope said, “Things got really bad. It got to the point where I felt like ending my own life, but after receiving a phone call from a loved one, I realised I couldn’t do it and that I have to try and carry on.”
Both service users and staff alike were moved by Hope’s story and particularly the fact that despite managing for eight years, Hope had another relapse, which demonstrates that recovery is an ongoing journey.
After being able to attend university and writing a book on her journey, ‘Stand Tall, Little Girl’, Hope is now a nationally recognised author and Expert by Experience who hopes to visit Cygnet Hospital Ealing again to mentor service users soon.
“It was really inspirational to hear Hope’s story, it’s shown me that Recovery is possible. Although I have come a long way thanks to the treatment at Cygnet Hospital Ealing, I can still wake up some days not feeling great. Today was one of those days but after hearing Hope speak about her recovery, it has made my day.”Service user, Cygnet Hospital Ealing
Raf Hamaizia, Cygnet Health Care’s Expert by Experience Lead said,”After hearing Hope’s journey, one of the ladies on the ward asked if Hope was her real name. When Hope confirmed that is her real name, people seemed pleasantly surprised. I think this is because there is no other fitting name for Hope. She filled the room with hope today, hope that people can live a meaningful life beyond their medical diagnosis, whatever it may be. I am purchasing ten copies of Hope’s book ‘Stand tall, Little Girl’ for the benefit of service users at Cygnet Hospital Ealing and to support Hope’s cause.”