Lisa’s gone the extra mile with her health and fitness goals... as well as achieving her target weight with Slimming World, she’s joined our 2024 London Marathon team! 

Lisa’s running to raise money for Cancer Research UK in memory of her dad, who sadly passed away from cancer 16 years ago. She’s also keen to increase awareness of how maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can improve people’s health and help reduce the risk of developing some types of cancer. She says:  

‘I’ve seen first-hand how cancer can take loved ones away from you, and the lasting effect it has on families. That’s why I want to do all I can to help those living with and impacted by cancer. Alongside the marathon, I’m also taking part in The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw by donating things that no longer fit me to Cancer Research UK charity shops. It’s something that happens in Slimming World groups every year – and, as well as raising millions for an amazing cause, it’s a great opportunity to clear out the old stuff and make space for new clothes that’ll make me feel fantastic.

Before joining Slimming World, I was stuck in a pattern of yo-yo dieting. I’d start a new diet every time I had an event coming up – when I got married, and for holidays and Christmas parties – but as soon as it was over I’d put the weight back on (and then some).  

I used having my children as an excuse to not worry about my weight gain... telling myself that everyone gains a bit of baby weight, right? After having my youngest child, though, I was diagnosed with post-natal depression, which was later diagnosed as depression. This led to years of ups and downs, and I would always seek comfort in food – especially when I lost Dad. 

It was during the Covid lockdowns that I decided to lose weight for my health and not just for a special occasion. I realised that being overweight could increase the severity of the virus – and I had people relying on me, and things I still wanted to see and do. 

When I arrived at my Slimming World group for the first time, I was welcomed by everyone, especially Laura, my amazing Consultant. I didn’t really expect to find such dedication, inspiration, friendship and support in group – but I found it all in abundance. No one’s out to beat everyone else; we all want every single person to do well and love helping each other to achieve our personal goals.

I quickly picked up Food Optimising, Slimming World’s healthy eating plan, and realised that I could still have my favourite meals – like a Sunday roast dinner – with a few clever swaps to make them slimming-friendly. I lost 4st and the weight was off for good this time, not just for a holiday or party. 

As I slimmed down, I began to increase my activity levels, with Slimming World’s Body Magic physical activity support programme.  

Before, I’d go through a similar pattern with exercise as I did with dieting – trying lots of new hobbies, like swimming, cycling and BoxFit, but giving them up after just a few weeks. I even bought an exercise bike, which turned into a clothes hanger!  

This time, I eased myself into exercise with the workout videos on the Slimming World app, starting with 10 minutes a day and gradually building it up over time. I loved the way that being fitter made me feel, both mentally and physically, and was inspired to try the Couch to 5K running app. Now, exercise doesn’t feel like a chore any more – and here I am, getting ready to run the London Marathon! 

Of course, I’ll be thinking of my dad as I run. I feel it’s a fitting tribute to him, as we used to go on runs together when I was younger. It’ll be a dream come true to cross that finish line, and a reflection of how far I’ve come.’

Lisa’s running the 2024 London Marathon as part of the Slimming World team, which consists of Slimming World members and Consultants, and Head Office staff. 

The team is raising funds for Slimming World’s official charity partners: Cancer Research UK, the Irish Cancer Society and Alzheimer’s Research UK. You can support these amazing charities through sponsoring the Slimming World London Marathon team here. 

If you’d like to get involved in fundraising yourself, you can sign up to run a 5K Race for Life event with Slimming World or take part in The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw (until 27th April 2024) in your local Slimming World group. Contact your local Consultant to find out more!  

Weight loss will vary due to your individual circumstances and how much weight you have to lose.