"Thank you for never giving up on me"

My GP, Dr Elder at the Pentland Medical Centre is a fantastic GP and always makes me feel at ease. 

I have been under the care of Dr Elder for many years now, and we have built up a relationship over these years that help provide the best outcome(s) at each of my appointments. 

I am autistic, and I have been struggling with anorexia nervosa since I was 8 years old. My mental health is a bit of a rollercoaster, sometimes I’m doing a bit better, sometimes I’m really struggling. However, no matter how I am doing Dr Elder provides a listening ear, plan of actions and a safe space for me to feel understood and heard.  

I recently had to have a more personal appointment with her to do with my physical health and she provided me with gentle care, understanding and reassurance throughout. 

I always thank Dr Elder after each appointment, but I’m never sure how to say a big enough thank you for her ongoing support. I would like to try through this platform. 

I would like to say a huge thank you for never giving up on me, and not losing hope on my journey with anorexia and other mental health issues. You have never once made me feel like I didn’t matter, and have always made me feel like my struggles are important and valid.

I would also like to thank you for being so gentle with my weight difference from 3 years ago to now, you still treat me the same from when I was very poorly physically to now (still poorly, but in a more mental health way, rather than a physical way). Your kindness and understanding has given me strength each time I see you, and confidence in talking to yourself and others about my struggles. 

I wish there were 200 Dr Elders in the world, however that would mean that the one I have wouldn’t be so unique and special.