Managing my weight became a constant background struggle in my life. I was overweight from around the age of 10 and first joined Slimming World in my late teens. Over the years, I kept coming back to group. I’d lose weight, feel great – then hit a wall. I’d stop going, slip back into my old habits and end up heavier than before. 

After the Covid lockdowns – and my mum being unwell in hospital for months – I rejoined my local Slimming World group in March 2022. This time, something clicked. I lost more than 6st (38kg) and, incredibly, put my type 2 diabetes into remission. It felt life‑changing... but then that familiar cycle started up again and I could feel myself slipping back into my old habits.

First a stone crept back on, then nearly three more. I was terrified I’d undo all my hard work. I even looked into having a gastric sleeve operation abroad, but I was scared of the pain. And deep down, I knew Slimming World worked for me. I just needed a bit more help to break the cycle for good.

Discover Slimming World’s healthy eating plan

After four months of researching, thinking, worrying and changing my mind about 50 times, I made a decision. In May 2024, I started on Mounjaro weight loss medication. At the time, I didn’t know anyone else who used it. I was nervous, but told myself: ‘If the side effects are too much, I’ll stop.’ 

The first thing I did was talk to my Slimming World Consultant, Camilla. I’ll be honest – I was frightened she’d say I couldn’t come to group any more. In fact, the opposite happened – there was zero judgement. Just warmth, support and a very clear message: we’re still here for you.

The medication helped quieten the constant noise I had in my head around food, but Slimming World gave me the structure, the balance and the confidence I needed to lose the weight healthily. Without that, I could easily have eaten too little, or made less healthy choices – or slipped straight back into my old habits. I wanted to nourish my body, not punish it.

Food Optimising helped me focus on real food. Plenty of protein (which I love), lots of fruit and veg, and meals that actually felt like meals. I didn’t want to live on supplements – and I didn’t need to. The plan showed me how to fuel myself properly.

The appetite suppression is strong when you start on weight loss medication, but it wears off as your body adapts. At first, I struggled to drink a cup of coffee, but as time went on I could eat more and there have been weeks that I’ve gained weight. The meds are absolutely not a magic pill. You still need to make changes to the way you eat and the way you think about food. That’s why Slimming World – the weigh-ins, the accountability, the support – is non‑negotiable for me. 

I never even moved on to the highest dose of Mounjaro. This wasn’t about relying on injections alone, it was about the combination – Slimming World plus medication. I’m now hoping to reduce my dose and then come off it altogether. 

I’ve gone from a size 26/28 to a 10/12, my type 2 diabetes is still in remission and my rheumatoid arthritis flare‑ups are easier to manage. I have energy for my kids, my life... and myself. Some days, it doesn’t feel real, because I’m still wrapping my head around what I’ve achieved.

People often don’t understand that no one chooses to be overweight. Until you’ve lived it, you can’t understand how hard it is. The support in group is what got me through. Even with weight loss injections, I couldn’t have done it without Slimming World.

Find your nearest Slimming World group

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