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"Malinda Ann Hill decided to resume treatment for her eating disorder almost as soon as she shifted to working remotely in March 2020.”
By Virginia Sole-Smith
March 31, 2021
Since January 2020, I have been debilitated by anorexia nervosa, anxiety, depression and PTSD exacerbated by the pandemic and the stalking I experienced since 2010.
On March 23, 2020, I was admitted to a virtual partial hospital program (PHP) for eating disorders.
On June 30, 2020, I was discharged from a virtual PHP because I could not afford to continue treatment and I had to return to work.
On January 31, 2021, I filed another police report due to the continued stalking.
On March 15, 2021, I was admitted to a virtual PHP for eating disorders.
On May 6, 2021, I shared my story on Capitol Hill as part of the Eating Disorders Coalition (EDC) Virtual Advocacy Day.
On May 14, 2021, I was suddenly discharged from a virtual PHP because it closed.
On May 17, 2021, I was admitted to a virtual intensive outpatient program (IOP).
On July 20, 2021, I was unexpectedly discharged from a virtual IOP because the treatment team recommended a higher level of care.
On August 7, 2021, I filed another police report due to the continued stalking.
On August 17, 2021, I was admitted to a virtual PHP for eating disorders.
On August 31, 2021, I received a letter from human resources informing me that my employment status would be terminated effective October 1 because the organization could not continue to hold my position because doing so would cause undue hardship.
On September 27, 2021, I was admitted to an in-person PHP for eating disorders.
On October 1, 2021, I lost my job after 19+ years of service.
On October 29, 2021, I was discharged from an in-person PHP because the program would not accept Medicaid.
On October 31, 2021, I lost my health insurance.
On November 1, 2021, I enrolled in Medicaid.
On November 3, 2021, I began individual therapy with a trauma therapist.
On May 17, 2022, I shared my story on Capitol Hill as part of the Eating Disorders Coalition (EDC) Virtual Advocacy Day.
On July 5, 2022, I was admitted to a residential treatment center (RTC) for eating disorders.
On July 25, 2022, I was abruptly discharged from an RTC after I filed complaints about safety concerns and a medication error.
On July 26, 2022, I returned to individual therapy with a trauma therapist.
On May 18, 2023, I shared my story on Capitol Hill as part of the Eating Disorders Coalition (EDC) Virtual Advocacy Day.
On September 30, 2023, I lost access to my therapist and medical nutrition therapy because I enrolled in Medicare.
On May 8, 2024, I travelled to D.C. and shared my story with lawmakers on Capitol Hill and advocate for legislation with the Eating Disorders Coalition (EDC).
As of May 13, 2024, I continue to struggle physically, emotionally, mentally and financially.
I am grateful for the support from family, friends and people who care. Thank you for your help and I promise to pay it forward.
Organizer
