I am the mother of three children one son and two daughters and both my daughters had an eating disorder. One had anorexia and the other had bulimia/binge eating. My daughters are in good recovery and are both married with children. I also looked after my brother who had schizophrenia.
During the time my family were ill I was running a helium balloon company, however looking after those who have a mental health illness can change your life and I was struck by how many other families were struggling with their care giving role. So I decided to sell the balloon business and set up “Eating Disorders and Carers”. As well as working with families I work closely with professionals to ensure that the family voice is heard.
18 years on and I now work across the mental health field. I am one of the Carer representatives on QED the “Quality Eating Disorder Network” at the Royal College of Psychiatrists as well as sitting on a variety of advisory boards and committees including co-chairing a Triangle of Care group at a London Trust.
I feel passionately that families are a vital link between those they care for and the professionals.
Awards
Eating Disorders National Award from beat (formerly the Eating Disorders Association) in recognition of my contribution to the world of eating disorders.
Awarded “Carer Contributor of the Year” by the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
