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It was August 18th, 2016 when I first posted a picture on my Instagram and told my eating disorder recovery story. Little did I know that a single post would change a stranger's life completely. After receiving numerous messages of support, love, and inspiration, things began to die down and I became really busy with my first semester of college.

Only a month after, I was asked by my therapist to share my story at The Renfrew Center of Radnor Reunion. From that point forward, I was sharing as much as I could—even if I was terrified. I read poems to my therapist and the other staff members, when one day I shared something and said:

"Thank you for allowing me to share my words" in which my therapist replied, "They are WORTH sharing, Gracie!"

Now, what does this have to do with right now you ask? Well, a few days ago an individual commented on my Instagram post that I made in August and asked to talk. She said that she thought she might have an eating disorder. We began to message back and forth, and I could tell how bad the disease had gotten to her. I told her that it was really easy to get help and all she had to do was call 1-800-RENFREW. To my surprise, she did! She was evaluated, medically cleared and will be going to residential in a few days. I saved her life by sharing my story, and that's what makes my pain matter—my past pain has the purpose of inspiring others, and that is never going to change. I've been messaging her words of hope and encouragement because those are the words that I needed when I was in her exact same position.

I think through all of this, I've learned that you can use social media to hide behind a filter and uplift the incredibly false standards of beauty or you can use social media to tell your story and save a life. I will never ever choose to be quiet. I will always choose to be vulnerable, and I sincerely hope that you all will do the same. Share your story, and let's save lives one Instagram post at a time.