Grace Summer - I Will Not Give up on My Daughter: A True Account of a Family Living with Anorexia Nervosa

Babs is Head of English at The Kings School in Parramatta, NSW, and a published author of a number of Secondary English textbooks.

This book reflects the reality for both the daughter, Summer and the family, who live through what can only be described as hell for a period of 9 months.

It is designed to help families understand how invasive the disease of Anorexia Nervosa is and how the balance between a normal, healthy life can be very fragile. Through reading Graces diary accounts and Summers poetic responses it is hoped that every reader will gain an insight into this disease - one that is often hidden from the public eye.

It is ironic that both the sufferer and the family see a degree of shame associated with this disease, perhaps best captured in Graces entry of October 8th when she expresses that if it was cancer the family could fight the battle together. It is clear, that whilst the family, with unconditional love can help, ultimately it is only Summer who can and must fight the demon in order to recover. This is why the disease is so hard for the family, who in many respects remain powerless. All logic and beliefs are challenged; all the instilled values are flaunted as the sufferer becomes consumed by an inner demon, in this text, thoughtfully named Anna to represent Anorexia.

The title of this text I will not give up on my daughter is an important mantra that gives strength to Grace and ultimately Summer. Graces diary entries are real as is Summers poetry. Both reflect their inner turmoil and determination, yet also reveal the devastating impact of Anorexia on the individual and the family. They capture their inner thoughts at significant times as each tries to fight the disease in particularly distinct ways.

This book is essential reading, not only for the families affected but for all teenage girls and boys. The public perception is that it is a girls disease but this is not the case. Dr Mark Warren from the Cleveland Centre for Eating Disorders states:

ED in men was thought to be almost non-existent, in the 80s and 90s about 10% and now 25-30%. So all we know is that it is more prevalent than was previously thought. In addition, boys engage in some behaviour unusual for girls- including steroid use, spitting, and over the counter muscle enhancers. If we include these behaviours, the prevalence of ED in boys may be even higher.

I hope this book will be read widely and taught in secondary schools as part of the Personal, Health & Development programme. It also has a place in the English classroom.

Its not the difficulties of life
that defines you,
You cant help that.