A recovery testimonial from a former client…

We can’t think of a more fitting way to begin the year than by sharing a story of recovery — one that speaks to courage, hope, and the possibility of change.

Marietta arrived at Imani believing that life without her eating disorder was impossible. What followed was not an easy or linear journey, but one marked by courage, faith, support, and the gradual rebuilding of trust — in herself, her body, and in life. Today, Marietta is living a life she once believed was out of reach.

This is her story, from eating disorder recovery to a life filled with hope, purpose, marriage and motherhood, shared in her own words.

Hello, my name is Marietta. I am 30 years old and I am from the Netherlands. Before coming to Imani, I had never heard of the Twelve Step program, and I truly did not believe life without my eating disorder was possible.

I entered Imani in April 2019, when I was almost 24. In the Netherlands, the waiting lists for treatment were very long, and I did not want to continue living in my eating disorder any longer. Even so, my eating disorder was very strong. It convinced me that giving up was an option and that I would not be missed. What helped me, even then, was seeing how deeply my family and friends hoped I would get better, even though I believed I did not have a problem.

The first weeks at Imani were a blur. I was focused on surviving. My eating disorder was loud, I was in denial, and I kept trying to do things my own way. After seven months, I returned to the Netherlands for a short visit. I relapsed and then came back to Imani. That experience was devastating. I realised I had made a serious mistake. My sponsor told me she could no longer sponsor me, the counsellors were very worried, my family was disappointed: within one week I had not been able to follow my meal plan on my own.

That was the moment I truly understood how unmanageable my life becomes when I return to my eating disorder. I lose people, I lose control, and I become deeply unhappy.

Then something shifted. No one had given up on me. I was the one who had started to give up. My counsellor, the team, and my family were still there, believing in me. I realised I no longer wanted to lie. I wanted to live my life, but not on my eating disorder’s terms.

From that moment on, I began to truly work the program. I accepted my powerlessness and began to face my defects. Most importantly, I started to want a life in recovery. Later that year, I returned home to the Netherlands, and I am still in recovery today.

Many things helped me along the way. Above all, I thank God, my Higher Power, who helped me believe in life again. Through faith, I came to see the real Marietta, someone who was loved from the moment she was in her mother’s womb. Attending church services during treatment was incredibly meaningful to me. That community became my family.

The Imani team has always felt like home. They are gentle, kind, and deeply supportive, and the centre itself carries a sense of safety and belonging. At the time, we also had Bob, the therapy dog, who brought comfort and joy during a very difficult period.

I truly believe in the program at Imani. The ABA approach, the recovery work, and the way the team helps uncover what lies beneath an eating disorder made a lasting difference in my life.

Today, in December 2025, my life looks completely different. I met my husband in 2022, we married in 2024, and I am now pregnant with our first child. These are gifts of recovery I once believed were impossible. They represent joy, freedom, and a life I never thought I would have.

Today, I am living my life fully. I am working, and I am present for myself and for the people around me. My body is trusting me to carry a baby, even after all the harm I once caused through my eating disorder. My body did not give up on me, and for that I am deeply grateful.

There are still days when I think about food, and days when life feels hard. Most of the time, though, these struggles are simply part of being human. When I struggle, I understand where it comes from, and I know that it is okay. What matters is not giving up, not acting out, and not hiding. I have learned that honesty and asking for help make all the difference.

Recovery has changed how I show up in my life. It begins with showing up for myself each day. I wake up, shower, pray, and choose recovery. From there, I show up honestly for my husband, friends, colleagues, and family. I tell them when I need comfort, when I struggle, and when I feel anxious. I allow myself to be seen as I truly am.

I have also learned to set healthy boundaries. Recovery has taught me to love myself in all moments, not just the easy ones. I now believe that others can love me too, simply because we are all human.

In my daily life, I work as a nurse with babies in a hospital for 28 to 32 hours a week. I continue to attend church and ABA Sunday meetings. These practices remind me why I choose recovery and help me see how far I have come. Being in meetings keeps me grounded and connected to myself.

I no longer write meal plans or count food, but I continue to eat regular meals and snacks. This is something I learned at Imani, and I know it works. When I try to do things my own way, I lose stability. I risk losing my work, my marriage, and the future I want for my child. Recovery gives me structure, safety, and freedom.

If I could speak to myself in 2019, I would say this:
Marietta, you cannot see it yet, but if you keep going, a beautiful life is waiting for you. Your eating disorder is not worth it. It only takes from you. Keep doing the work, even when it feels hard. God loves you and believes in you, but you must begin to believe in yourself. One day, you will experience a freedom you never thought possible.

Recovery is possible for everyone. If you cannot believe it yet, I will believe it for you.

With love,
Mariëtta

The team at Imani would like to thank Marietta for sharing her inspiring recovery journey. If you, or someone you care about, is struggling with an eating disorder, please reach out. Our team of professionals is here to help.