The family of a young woman fighting anorexia fears that she is being discharged from the hospital with little hope for survival. Caitlin Mackay, aged 26, is in critical condition following a collapse at the Eating Disorder Services facility in Inverness, Scotland. Despite being fed through a nasogastric tube and showing heart damage from years of malnutrition, there are plans to discharge her next week.
Caitlin’s sister, Hollie, expressed dismay at the situation, highlighting the drastic decline in Caitlin’s health during recent medical procedures. The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to gather funds for private specialized treatment, as they believe the current healthcare system has its limitations.
The Mackay family is concerned that without intensive inpatient care, sending Caitlin home is akin to a death sentence. Hollie emphasized Caitlin’s awareness of her deteriorating health and her fear of the impending discharge. The goal of the fundraiser is to secure a spot in a facility equipped to manage both the physical and mental complexities of anorexia nervosa.
Although the initial fundraising target was £8,000, the long-term care costs could range from £20,000 to £100,000. The community response has been positive, with donations already surpassing £6,000. While visits from her beloved French bulldog provide some solace, the family’s primary focus remains on securing specialized care for Caitlin.
Hollie appeals to the public for support, emphasizing that every donation, regardless of size, will contribute directly to Caitlin’s treatment and well-being. The family’s ultimate aim is to save Caitlin’s life through the fundraiser.
NHS Highland stated that they could not comment on individual cases publicly but assured that they are actively engaging with the family to provide necessary support during this challenging period. Donations can be made through the official GoFundMe page provided.
