If you’d told me back in 2010 that I’d be this fit, happy and confident in my 80s, I’d have laughed. But here I am – living proof that it’s never too late to change your life.
I’d struggled with my weight for as long as I could remember. Even during my teacher training in the early 1960s, I was put on a restrictive diet by the college surgery – but nothing ever stuck. After having my two lovely sons, the weight crept on even more. I’d lose a bit here and there, but it always came back. Dieting felt so restrictive and joyless – I just couldn’t keep it up.
Eventually, I stopped weighing myself altogether. I hated mirrors, avoided cameras, and I even gave up swimming (something I’d always adored) because I couldn’t bear the thought of being seen in a costume.
My health was suffering, too. I was constantly battling chest infections, and it was during one particularly nasty bout that my brother-in-law (a retired doctor) gently suggested that losing weight might help. That was the turning point.
Where it all began
In April 2010, a Slimming World leaflet landed on my doormat. I’d heard about Slimming World from a lovely lady at my luncheon group – her doctor had recommended it, and she was doing brilliantly. Something clicked, and I thought, why not give it a go?
Walking into my first group was nerve-wracking. I was so anxious about being judged. But my Consultant, Christine, and the other members welcomed me with such warmth and kindness that I felt safe, and I knew I’d made the right decision. When I stepped on the scales and saw nearly 17st (108kg) staring back at me. I was mortified – but Christine reassured me that my weight was confidential, and nobody was there to judge.
At group, everyone roots for one another, and that sense of community gave me the courage to keep going. I was treated with such respect and grace, which is one of the reasons why I’m still attending all these years later.
A breath of fresh air
I couldn’t believe how much freedom I had with the healthy eating plan – no endless weighing or counting, and I could still enjoy my beloved cheese. What a revelation! It felt doable. It felt sustainable. And for the first time, losing weight wasn’t about deprivation – I was nourishing myself properly.
Cooking has always been a joy for me. My husband Anthony and I grow our own fruit and veg, and we love experimenting with recipes from Slimming World cookbooks – I’m always trying new twists on meals like fish pie or pasta bolognese. I also pick up Slimming World Magazine every month and scroll through the app for ideas. It keeps things exciting!
I reached my target weight in 2011 and, thanks to the Slim for Life plan for target members, I’ve kept it off ever since. My Consultant now, Helen, is great at helping me break down any barriers and find the right balance to maintain my weight loss – I can enjoy a holiday or meals out without worrying about what I’m eating.
From hiding to thriving at 82
Slimming World’s activity programme has helped me rediscover movement in a way that suits me. I used to love cycling and tennis, and while those have slowed down, I’m still active every day. I garden, walk everywhere, do gentle exercises in our hot tub and, best of all, I swim again! No more hiding from swimming costumes or reflections. I even volunteer at the village hall and make my own clothes – and now I wear them with pride, not just for comfort.
I’m no longer ducking out of photos. I feel strong, vibrant and free. Slimming World didn’t just help me lose weight – it gave me my life back. And at 82, I’m living it to the fullest.
So if you’re reading this and wondering if it’s too late – or if you’ve tried everything and nothing’s worked – please know this: you’re not alone, and it absolutely can work for you. Slimming World changed my life. It might just change yours, too.
Watch Anne’s inspiring story
Anne’s day on a plate
Before | After | |
|---|---|---|
Breakfast | A large bowl of cereal with milk and sugar, or porridge with golden syrup, or two slices of toast with marmalade or honey. | Grapefruit and reduced-sugar cereal with milk, or two fried eggs with sliced tomatoes. |
Lunch | Tinned soup, or a cheeseboard (with full-fat cheese) with bread, chutney or salad with full-fat mayonnaise, and a glass of cider. | Homemade vegetable soup or beans on toast with reduced-fat Cheddar. |
Dinner | Roast chicken (skin and fat left on) with potatoes roasted in oil and butter-coated vegetables. | Homemade fish pie, roast dinner, or pasta bolognese made using 5% fat beef mince. |
Snacks | Coffee and biscuits, tea with a piece of cake (or a scone with butter and jam), followed by homemade fruit crumble and ice cream. A glass of white wine or a gin and tonic in the evening. | Coffee with a biscuit and some homegrown fruit with fat-free natural yogurt. A non-alcoholic gin or a small glass of white wine later in the day. |
Weight loss will vary according to your individual circumstances and how much weight you have to lose.