Rabbi Zippel,

Hi!

It's Elana from Avalon Hills. As Purim is approaching, I can't help but remember our first meeting together one year ago in Brian's office at Avalon Hills residential eating disorder treatment center in Petersboro, Utah. We spoke about Nadav and Avihu - Aharon's sons and how they were killed because they were unable to serve HASHEM properly in their bodies. I remember that you then related it to my then current situation - that HASHEM brought me to Petersboro, Utah to get healthy again so that I can serve him with all my might, in a healthy body, and that HASHEM brought me here because my time in this world was not up yet. Those words, that conversation, stuck with me throughout my whole journey at Avalon Hills. You helped me realize that I was there for a reason, to get better, and that was my purpose then. You helped me want to get better, and realize that it was the right decision. I cannot thank you enough— you helped me become the recovered, strong, and thankfulwoman I am today.

I switched school for my junior year this year, and I absolutely love it! It is such a warm and nurturing environment, that provides me room to express myself, retain my individuality, and pursue interests. I am on the volleyball team, write for the english and hebrew school newspapers, I am starting a spanish newsletter, and I am on the Mock Trial team. I have amazing friends, and I am so proud of myself for making the right decision.

For shabbat we are going to my cousins' house in the city - it will be nice to spend time with the family. Again, I just want to say thank you; thank you for helping me through the good times and the bad, believing in me, visiting me, and providing me with numerous insights. 

Shabbat Shalom!

Elana