Grateful for care, support during illness

I would like to thank Johns Hopkins Hospital and my team of health specialists who helped me get my life back together.

I spent a little over two months this summer at Hopkins for treating my eating disorder. Immediately prior to my admission into the hospital, I attended the University of Maryland struggling with concentration and missed out on many opportunities due to my compromised state of health. My eating disorder robbed me of all control of my life. It took my doctor calling me at home one evening saying that I was dying until I finally sought medical help.

I was still reluctant during the beginning of my treatment, but I soon realized I indeed had a serious health issue. The eating disorder treatment program was not easy. I was heavily monitored and was permitted very little freedom. What made going through it possible was the professionalism of the doctors, nurses, therapists and techs caring for me. I met many of them throughout my stay, and each one of them could help boost my morale during the toughest times. Of course, I cannot forget to mention the support from my family. Every week I had visitors provide me even more motivation to get healthier.

Eating disorders are serious illnesses, with anorexia nervosa having the highest mortality rate of any mental illness in America. I encourage all those living with an eating disorder to get help. Family and friends should educate themselves about the disorder in order to provide the much needed support. I have met older patients in critical condition because they did not get help earlier. Please do not let this happen to you or a loved one. I have not been to other psychiatric units but I highly recommend Hopkins. My time there both changed and saved my life. Thank you, greatly. Frank Bohne, La Plata