This November, one of our incredible supporters, Kieron, is raising money for Caring Minds in support of the Children and Young People Eating Disorder Service

His fundraising journey is deeply personal. Several years ago, his wife, Sian, experienced an eating disorder while at university. During one of the most difficult periods of her life, the team at Forward Thinking Birmingham provided vital medical, nutritional and psychological support that helped her make a full recovery. 

Reflecting on her experience, Sian said:

“I can honestly say Forward Thinking Birmingham’s Eating Disorder Recovery Service (now Children and Young People) saved my life.

“At 22 years old, weighing five and a half stone, I was told my options were simple, if I continued down the path I was on: a wheelchair to support my weakening body, or a feeding tube during hospitalisation. The worst thing, being told that the damage might mean I may not ever be able to have children.

“At this point the service stepped in and could not have done enough to support me. From the consultants, the nutritionists and the psychologists, I found the strength to recover.

“As I sit here, with my family I was able to have, I will always be truly grateful for Forward Thinking Birmingham.”

Now, Kieron wants to give something back to the service that made such a difference to his family and is taking on a charity challenge. The funds raised will help support others accessing eating disorder services and help ensure more young people receive the care and support they need. We’re incredibly grateful for his commitment, generosity and support.

If you’d like to support his fundraising journey, please consider making a donation. 

The Specialist Eating Disorder Service, Children and Young People Division, commented on Sian’s experience and Kieron’s fundraising, saying: 

“We are incredibly moved and inspired by Sian’s story, and delighted to hear that she has gone on to build the life she once feared might not be possible. We would also like to thank Sian for sharing her powerful experience and Kieron for his commitment to his fundraising challenge.

“Recovery from an eating disorder can be a long and challenging journey, particularly during the transition to university life when young people are often navigating independence, academic pressures and changes in support networks. Stories like Sian’s offer hope to others who may be struggling and show that recovery is possible with the right support at the right time. At our Specialist Eating Disorder Service (previously Forward Thinking Birmingham) at BSMHFT’s Children and Young People services, we have long recognised the unique challenges faced by university students and young adults experiencing eating disorders. Through our First Episode Rapid Early Intervention for Eating Disorders (FREED) approach, we have adapted our service to provide rapid access to specialist assessment and treatment, flexible appointment times around study commitments, proactive outreach, family and carer involvement where appropriate and close partnership working with universities, GPs and other support services. By intervening early and tailoring care to the realities of student life, we aim to reduce the impact of eating disorders on education, wellbeing and future opportunities.

“We hope their story encourages others to seek help early and reminds everyone that recovery is achievable. For anyone concerned about an eating disorder, support is available through BSMHFT’s Eating Disorder Services, where compassionate, evidence-based care is provided to children, young people and adults across Birmingham and Solihull. Please speak to your GP or visit the website for information on accessing support and available services.”

Have a look at the below links for more information. 
Eating Disorder Service | Forward Thinking Birmingham
Eating disorders service – Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust