As I posed with my husband, Martin, in front of my son Michael’s Christmas tree, I couldn’t believe how happy and confident I felt having my photo taken. In previous years, I’d have been hiding under a big baggy jumper and leggings – and insisting on taking the pictures myself. Now, rocking a red dress three sizes smaller (and matching reindeer antlers!), I couldn’t stop smiling... 

The turning point for me came in January 2017, at a GP appointment to discuss the possibility of a hip replacement to ease my osteoarthritis. When my doctor asked me to step on the scales, I was shocked to see the number flashing back at me. I was even more concerned when he sat me down and said, ‘If you want to be able to have the operation, you’re going to have to lose some weight.’  

I hadn’t felt in control of my eating for years, but this was the first time I’d realised how much my weight was impacting my health. In the months after that, I tried various diet shakes and bars. I felt permanently hungry, though, and every time I lost a few pounds, I’d either come to a standstill or pile it all straight back on as soon as I started eating ‘normally’ again.

It was then that I noticed a banner advertising a local Slimming World group. I had to walk past it on my way to do my weekly food shop, and each time I did, I’d think, ‘One day, I’ll be brave enough to walk in...’.  

That day came on a Friday morning in April 2017. I was struggling back from the supermarket with my bags full of pies and cakes – all the things I knew weren’t going to help me lose weight. As I walked past the banner, hot and out of breath, I spotted a few women going into the Slimming World group and I just thought, ‘There’s no time like the present.’ I walked straight in, shopping bags and all, and I’ve never looked back!

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I knew from previous experience that the plan worked. I’d been a Slimming World member many years ago, when my son, Peter, and I had attended together. While he’d hit his target and managed to keep the weight off, I’d lost motivation. The difference this time was that I was committed to staying to group each week. I knew that the support from my Consultant, Debbie, and the other members would be what kept me inspired and on track. And I was right! I’ve been at target for five years now, and I had my hip replaced in July 2017.  

I feel the benefits of losing weight every day, but it’s at Christmas that the difference in my life really hits home. Especially during precious moments with my grandchildren, Amelia, 17, Jaxon, 10, and Raegan, seven. These days, I can get down on the floor with Jaxon and Raegan, as they build train sets and play with their remote-control cars. And rather than making excuses to stay behind, I join my family’s traditional Christmas Day walk along the nearby Trans Pennine Trail. It’s wonderful to be making so many lovely memories, and we still take plenty of photographs – it’s just that I’m in front of the camera now, not behind it! 

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