30/12/2025
One year apart. Same woman. Very different health.
The photo on the left was taken in December 2024. Three months later, I was diagnosed with high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which was a real wake-up call.
I initially followed the DASH diet and lost a stone on my own, but I missed the encouragement, accountability, and sense of community that only a group can offer. That’s why I returned to Slimming World in September 2025.
One of the most remarkable changes since coming back has been in my health. I’m sleeping better than I have in months, and my acid reflux completely disappeared less than month into my journey, something I never expected. In just a few weeks of Food Optimising and being mindful about what I eat, my body has responded in ways I’m truly grateful for.
At the end of September 2025, I had a telephone appointment with my GP. For the first time in a long while, I was able to speak with pride about my diet and lifestyle changes and how much better I felt. I was advised to continue and return for further blood tests and blood pressure checks.
Like many people, I faced setbacks and a short period off plan, gaining 7lbs through comfort eating, due to a bereavement; instead of giving up, I chose to reset and start again from that point. That decision has been the turning point. Since then, I’ve been focused, determined, and committed to staying on plan.
Joining Ella’s group in Plumstead has been the best decision I ever made. Ella is kind, motivating, and incredibly supportive, and you never feel judged, only encouraged. The sense of community in her groups is truly special.
It’s now December 2025. I’ve lost over 10% of my starting body weight, I’m just a couple of pounds away from a two-stone loss, and I’m one week away from achieving my Gold Active Essentials Award, something I’ve never achieved before.
This journey isn’t about vanity, it’s about health. The photo on the right was taken a year later, and I can see the difference, I look healthier, less puffy, and more like myself again.
Thank you, Ella, Thank you Glyndon Plumstead and Thank you Slimming World 💙
