Leanne Hewitt, from Spennymoor, joined Slimming World in January 2024 after a family trip last Christmas left her feeling embarrassed about her size and determined to make some changes to her lifestyle.
Leanne says: “I went to Holmside Park with my two sons last December for what was supposed to be a fun day out.
“I wanted to be able to take part in the activities the boys were doing, but due to my weight I really struggled. The final straw was an inflatable wall that I just couldn’t physically pull myself over.
“I knew right then that I couldn’t go on eating as I had been. Something had to change.
“I had previously done Slimming World and knew that the plan worked, but I found it hard during the pandemic.
“Not being able to get to classes had a big impact on my motivation and I’m sad to say I gave up.”
Leanne joined the Spennymoor Thursday group with Consultant Claire Peat in January 2024 and has gone on to lose an incredible six stone, going from a size 22 to a 12.
Leanne says: “The biggest changes I have made have been cutting back on take-aways, more cooking with fresh ingredients and making healthy fake-aways myself. It still feels like a naughty treat but without all the calories.
“My favourite Slimming World meal is Nancho Style Feast, we also love a Family Roast Chicken Dinner! I never feel hungry and can adapt recipes easily for the whole family.
“As a family we’ve also incorporated Slimming World’s Body Magic program that focuses on introducing moderate activity at your own pace.
“Before slimming world I’d get out of breath just walking short distances, or up the stairs… now I run up them!
“I’ve even incorporated Body Magic into my weekly routine can can comfortably use the treadmill now!”
Claire says: “Leanne has embraced Food Optimising wholeheartedly this year and that’s why she’s achieved such amazing results.
“The whole group is so proud of her transformation, we’ve loved cheering her on each week. Group support is so important to long term weight loss success!”
Leanne is planning on going back to Holmside Park in the New Year and tackling that wall again- and this time she knows she’ll conquer it!
She says: “I’m excited for the future.
”I love staying to group each week for the support and ideas. Everyone is there for the same reason and we just want to help each other.
“Losing weight has made a big difference to my life. I’m more confident at work and in my social life. I love to get dressed up and feel amazing.
“I can play with the boys and not get out of breath or have to stop.
“We have started going on family bike rides which has brought us all together.
“I feel so much happier and can shop in high street stores. I can’t wait to hit the January sales!
“I never thought I‘d achieve what I have this year, but now I know I’ll get to my dream target weight in 2025!
“With the help of Slimming World, Claire and the group, I’m determined to stay slim for life!”
You’ll find all of your local Slimming World groups at www.slimmingworld.co.uk or call Claire Peat on 07779 107274.
Spennymoor's local community newspaper.
