I never used to feel in control of my weight. It crept up when I went to university, but things really escalated in 2024 when I was going through a stressful time at work and then changed jobs. I used food to cope with my low mood, tension and sometimes just plain boredom.
At my biggest, even day‑to‑day things felt difficult – walking around, playing with my two children, working my job in a coffee shop. My body image was at an all‑time low: I avoided photos, hid behind people and wore baggy clothes. I covered up completely even at the beach. I just didn’t want to be seen.
Facing the patterns I didn’t want to recognise
It wasn’t until April 2025 that I really understood how much I was using food to cope. I’d had a long, exhausting week – work was busy and our daughters weren’t sleeping well – and I was shattered.
At work one day, some out-of-date food was being thrown out and staff were allowed to have it. I ended up helping myself to whatever I fancied without a second thought.
The next day, I went to send a parcel at the post office – but I also picked up some snacks for my way home. I made sure to hide the wrappers so that my wife, Cassie, wouldn’t see. I felt ashamed. That was the moment I knew something had to change.
Realising I didn’t have to do this alone
I spoke to Cassie – who was already a Slimming World member – and she suggested coming along to her group. I’m so glad I listened.
Our Consultant, Lauren, is so passionate about helping people. I felt welcomed by her and the rest of the room straight away. Staying to group has been key for my motivation – celebrating your wins with people who genuinely care about your success is such a powerful feeling.
Before joining Slimming World, I relied heavily on frozen food – things like chicken nuggets and chips – and I’d always cook extra for my daughters just so I could eat the leftovers. Takeaways were a regular thing, usually followed by ice cream or a cookie.
Since discovering Food Optimising, I’ve learnt how to cook balanced meals from scratch. The whole family gets involved now, and we all enjoy recipes like roasted vegetable soup and slow-cooker chilli. It’s amazing to know I’m fuelling myself properly instead of relying on convenience food.
Starting small with activity
When I was at university, I loved running – I’d built up my mileage and felt really proud of what my body could do. But I stopped as soon as I left. I’d occasionally turn up at my local Parkrun or take the kids swimming, but at the pool I’d mostly splash around or go on the slides.
When I heard about Slimming World’s active lifestyle programme, I thought, ‘This is my chance.’ It empowered me to set achievable targets that never felt overwhelming – and each time I hit one, my confidence grew. I took up running again, starting small and building up gradually, which helped me increase my speed, mileage and belief in myself. Now, I’m racking up the miles every week!
Running for a cause close to my heart
I’ll be running the London Marathon as part the official Slimming World team, raising money for Cancer Research UK – a charity that means a lot to me. I lost my grandad to cancer, and my father-in-law passed away from the disease when my wife was young. Being able to support such vital work feels incredibly meaningful.
I’ve visited several Slimming World groups as part of my fundraising
Here’s me holding a bucket collection at my local Morrisons...
...and taking on a 12-hour treadmill challenge in Costa, where I ran 53 miles non-stop from 6am to 6pm!
Keeping the fundraising going
Weight loss will vary due to your individual circumstances and how much weight you have to lose.