Before joining Slimming World, I’d been overweight for most of my life. I started my first diet at 11 years old, and since then I’ve tried so many different ways to lose weight – including hypnotherapy. Often, I’d lose some weight at first, but I’d always put it back on – and then some. 

Going into my 40s, I weighed 24st 7½lbs (156kg). I was at rock bottom, both physically and mentally. I’d been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, as well as high blood pressure, and my doctor had given me three months to make some serious lifestyle changes. The situation was urgent – if I didn’t improve my health, then I’d have to go on various different medications to try to keep my conditions under control.  

Find out more about our support for members with diabetes

Just living my everyday life was so difficult. I’d drive everywhere and park as close to the shops as possible, because my knees and hips couldn’t cope with walking far. My breathing was extremely heavy, and walking up the stairs would leave me gasping for air by the time I reached the top. I went to sleep every night propped up with pillows, worried I wouldn’t wake up due to my breathing difficulties. As a mum of three, my health issues terrified me. I knew I wanted (and needed) to make a change... I just didn’t know how.  

Joining Slimming World in February 2022 felt like my last hope and, if I’m being honest, I wasn’t convinced that it would work. I’d tried the Slimming World plan years ago but, looking back, my head was never really in the game. This time, though, my mindset had completely shifted, and I was ready to fully embrace everything Slimming World had to offer. My health depended on it. 

Discover two great ways to join Slimming World – in group or online 

I was nervous about walking into group for the first time, as I was self-conscious and embarrassed about my size. I pushed through the nerves, though, and I’m so glad I did. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made – for me and for my family.

I was warmly welcomed straight away by my Consultant, Sacha, and the other group members, and I immediately felt reassured and relieved. Everyone at group is so supportive, and there’s never any judgement. 

The healthy eating plan, Food Optimising, is really easy to follow, and I quickly realised that I could still have all my favourite meals. I love a Sunday roast, so I just cooked it Slimming World-style, with a few tweaks to make it healthier. For the first time, I’d found an eating plan I could stick to. I’ve never felt like I’m missing out or restricting myself with Slimming World.

I’ve now been a Slimming World member for just under two and a half years, and so far I’ve lost 13st 4lbs (85kg) – which is more than half my original body weight. It’s an incredible amount and I can hardly believe it myself, but if I can do it, anyone can!  

At Slimming World, you’re also encouraged to increase your activity levels. At the start of my journey, it felt like an impossible task, but with the support of Sacha and my group, I started following the Body Magic activity support programme. Slowly but surely, I committed to moving more. 

These days, I no longer see exercise as the enemy – in fact, I love it! I’ve gone from struggling to climb the stairs to climbing Mount Snowdon and enjoying every second. I’ve also just taken part in a Race for Life event with Slimming World. If you’d told me three years ago that I’d be whizzing around a 5km course without feeling breathless, I’d have laughed in your face – but not any more!

I ran Race for Life to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. I know first-hand the impact a cancer diagnosis can have, as my father and stepmother have both had the disease – and I’ve had my own scare, too. I want to do everything I can to support the vital work this charity does to help families touched by cancer, and I’m proud to have completed the run as a Slimming World member. 

My own health issues have improved so much since I lost weight. I’ve reversed my high blood pressure, and my type 2 diabetes has gone into remission. I used to be terrified of dying in my sleep, but now I’m living life to the max! I love getting involved in all kinds of activities, and no longer feel held back by my weight. I can go on theme park rides with my daughter and fit into wetsuits for water sports. I’ve been snorkelling, and have even swum with dolphins – a dream come true. I’m so excited to see what adventures this summer – and the rest of my life – will bring! 

Slimming World is an official sponsor of Race for Life 2024. Together with our amazing members, we’ve been fundraising for more than a decade for Cancer Research UK, raising more than £20million to support the charity’s vital work.

You can run Race for Life with Slimming World and get 30% off entry. Find out more here.

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