Nicola Dowson attends the Slimming World group at Bishop Auckland Football Club on a Tuesday morning and has has lost 8st 4lb in only seven months.
This is what she has to say:
“Because of losing weight with Slimming World I have a new outlook on life. I am filled with happiness and positivity.
“Before Slimming World I was depressed and in a dark place, struggling with both food and alcohol addictions – I drank every day.
“I no longer depend on alcohol to get through my days. My confidence level is now sky high. I feel like I can achieve anything.
“I’m not afraid anymore to tell people how I feel about them. I now have a boyfriend because I used my new confidence to tell him how I felt.
“I am happy and confident enough to open myself up to people and make friends. I can talk to anyone!”
Nicola further discusses the benefits of losing weight:
“Being able to buy clothes from normal shops other than plus size. I can fit in size 16 rather than size 30 in six months since joining Slimming World.
“I now take care of my appearance – I wear make up, get my hair done and have beauty treatments.
“I care about myself and self-care. Before, I didnt care.”
Talking about her health and fitness:
“My blood pressure was through the roof before but now it’s normal. I’m no longer dependent on alcohol to cope with life.
“I am not in constant pain with my back, knee, hip joints and feet. I can stand up at work for eight hours without being in pain.
“I can easily walk up hills and climb stairs and I can cycle for forty minutes at the gym none stop now.”
What about the group she attends?
“Slimming World offers me a family of like-minded people who truly care about each other and a supportive environment, from both other members and group leader Judith.
“She gives us unlimited help, support and guidance so we never feel alone.
“Slimming World meetings are fun and you get to have a laugh and spend time with friends.
“The plan offers beautiful, tasty and healthy meals.”
“I feel like I am walking on air!”
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
