This past November, I began writing for the Odyssey. My first article about struggling with an eating disorder came as a bit of a shock to a lot of people who have known me my entire life. However, the response I received from family, friends, acquaintances and even complete strangers shocked me more than anything. To put it simply, I was overwhelmed by the incredible support, love and prayers that were showered upon me after coming out about my health issue. To be clear, I did not write my initial article for attention or pity. I swallowed my pride and wrote it for the public awareness of eating disorders and most of all, my own accountability. Due to my published transparency, I gave myself no other choice but to be fully committed to becoming healthy. By placing my health and specifically my eating habits under a spotlight, I now have constant reminders of support and encouragement from those surrounding me daily.

The two people who are around me more than anyone are my two beautiful roommates, Hunter and Erin. Let me start by saying thank you to them. Thank you for making me a delicious breakfast every morning (because that meal is easily skipped by a sleepyhead like me). Thank you for sticking by my side and being understanding during times where my appetite is non-existent. Thank you for reminding me that my health, not only physically but mentally, should be my number one priority. Thank you for the boosts of encouragement and undying positivity in my journey to gain weight. Most of all, thank you for being the best friends I could ever ask for.

I’ve never been one to make New Year’s resolutions, but I truly do feel that this year will be one I reflect back on in the future as a year of immense change. By the end of 2017, my goal is to have gained twenty pounds. That would be placing me at a weight that I’ve never been before and I am so excited to see that. Overall, I’m excited to feel that. The best advice I can give to others wanting to see a change in their own lives is to rid out any toxic negative energy and make a genuine effort to solely surround yourself by people who bring you positive light. Unfortunately, this may mean ending a relationship or distancing yourself from certain people you’re used to being around. But trust me, those recent changes I’ve made for myself are already proving to be so worth it. I’m reminded every day that God’s plan for us is so much bigger than what we have in store for ourselves. We just have to listen to Him! Although my journey is far from over and sometimes it’s easy to get disheartened, I know it’s in His control, and in His perfect timing.