The Carsten Family
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The Carsten Family

Name:
Amanda Carsten
Location:
Cottage Grove, MN
Injury/Illness:
Eating Disorder

Our Story

Did you know that anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any psychological illness?  The mortality rate is 10%!  Did you know that eating disorders are not simply a choice, but a complex biopsychosocial disease?  Our daughter Amanda has been in and out of hospitals for the past 4 years.  She has a life-threatening condition that can cause low blood pressure, slowed or irregular heart rate, low body temperature, abnormal blood counts, and electrolyte abnormalities, among many other physical problems.  Her condition often requires treatment out of state since our military retiree insurance only covers certain hospitals and treatment. She has extended periods of separation from most of her family.  

Amanda has 5 siblings.  Her mom can't work due to the intense nature of the treatment that she is receiving and the travel it requires when I accompany her.  We are thankful for insurance, but the travel and lack of an additional income has drained most of our savings and one of our retirement accounts.  In 2018, Amanda was hospitalized for 8 months, and so far has been hospitalized since December with several months to go.  We could really use help with the cost of mom staying with Amanda for all these many months. The cost is about equal to our mortgage payment.  Every little bit helps.  Thanks!  P.S. The photo is of Amanda on an outing.

Family Updates

Sad struggle

This hospital is very bleak, but thankfully I was eventually allowed to be with Amanda during her dinners and it is helping her to eat some solid food.  Next up, a residential treatment center that is more comfortable and across the country.  The photo is of Amanda and her sister, both age 2 at the time.

The Long and Winding Road

Amanda was stabilized and moved to another hospital in another state, looking for a better hope for recovery. This is a photo from her hospital room window at her previous hospital. At least it was a great view.

Difficulties

Amanda is not wanting to eat and the treatment is not working. We may have to go to a different facility where they have another treatment. We appreciate prayers!

The photo is of Amanda's day of birth.

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