How Did Our Journey Begin?

Meet Annalise Marron

Annalise’s Story

I started Ballet at a young age and had a love-hate relationship with it for over 13 years. I never felt I was ever good enough despite all of the kind comments on my performances. School has always been difficult for me with a Learning Disability and ADHD. My teachers outside of school didn’t understand my Learning Disability, often yelling at me daily. Despite my efforts, trying so hard, and not giving up, I would go home and rehearse for hours. I strived to perfect everything I did because I never felt I could measure up to everyone’s expectations.

At the age of eleven, my journey with Anorexia started in my local doctor’s office. I was immediately admitted to Albany Medical’s re-feeding program due to my low heart rate and body weight. When I first got diagnosed, I didn't know how to cope with this disorder. There was a mix of emotions, but most of all, there was fear and a sense of hopelessness. This disorder caused my family and me to be terrified for my health. I felt very alone and didn't know how I would survive this disease. My disease had the best of me, and I had to undergo another inpatient treatment at Albany Med, where I struggled with a dangerously low heart rate again, anxiety, depression, OCD, self-harm, and anorexia.

After undergoing this extensive and costly treatment, I contemplated how families in similar situations would have the funds for the same treatments. The cost of treatment for Anorexia can be up to $30,000 a month or more; I knew not every family would be able to get the help they need while remaining positive in this situation. On top of this heavy financial burden and the emotional hardship included with this disorder, I knew I wanted to help others like me.

This is why I started my foundation, Flutters of Hope, a 501c3 state and federally recognized organization to help those with eating disorders. Inspiration for this organization initially came from a family friend (Maggie), who brought me gifts during treatment. These small acts of kindness brought me hope, which is invaluable in this challenging time. My idea of starting a foundation inspired my “Butterflywish Baskets.” They are baskets of essentials and messages of hope for those who are struggling the way I have struggled.