At only 46, the pain in my legs and knees was unbearable – just walking felt like a daily battle. After endless trips to the doctor, I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in one of my knees. That was a huge wake-up call. I knew my weight was playing a part, and I realised I had to make a change – not just for myself, but also for my daughter, Nancy, who was 10 at the time. I wanted to be a fit, active mum and role model. More than anything, I wanted to be there for Nancy for many more years to come.

But that wasn’t the end of it. I started noticing other strange symptoms, such as constant exhaustion, numbness, and a tingling in my legs and feet that wouldn’t go away. Then came a truly terrifying episode of optic neuritis that left me temporarily blind in one eye. When I was finally diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), it hit me hard. MS is a progressive condition and there’s no cure, but I made a promise to myself that I was going to fight back with everything I had.

I’d joined Slimming World a couple of times before with great success, but life always got in the way and I’d slowly slip back into my old habits. This time, though, I knew things had to be different. With a hectic job and busy family life to juggle, I decided to give Slimming World Online a go – feeling determined to make a real, lasting change.

Discover our digital-only service, Slimming World Online

I recognised that getting fit and healthy wasn’t just a nice idea – it was absolutely vital. This realisation became the turning point in my journey.

I fully committed to Slimming World Online and found the online Community – and honestly, it felt like I’d discovered a second family. The support was incredible. It kept me going, held me accountable and reminded me I wasn’t alone. I shared my story, and was motivated by everyone else’s journeys, too.

In the Community, we’re all there to help one another. There’s no judgement – everyone’s in the same boat.

Since reaching my target, I still post every day, weigh in weekly and soak up the support. I also help other members along their journeys where I can.

I also love the Slimming World Podcast and the live events hosted on Zoom – they’re great for that extra boost of motivation.

My first big milestone was losing 2st. Suddenly, my clothes were hanging off me – I had to go out and buy some new jeans! I’d started out as a size 18-20, and every drop in size felt like a little victory. 

Exercise can be challenging due to my MS, but as my energy increased, so did my activity levels. I started walking every evening after work and went further at the weekend. I couldn’t have done that before I lost weight – I used to get out of breath climbing upstairs. I’ve even taken up swimming again!

We’ll help you to gradually build up your fitness through our activity support programme

I used to rely on a walking stick and often had to cancel social plans because I was just too exhausted. But I haven’t used a stick in eight months now – and just last weekend, I completed a 6K walk!

One of my most empowering moments came during a family holiday to Greece last summer. I walked along the beach in a bikini for the first time ever, and I felt amazing!

And that wasn’t the only difference...

Confidence and joy were two emotions I didn’t think I’d ever properly feel. On previous holidays, I would’ve covered up with a long dress because I was so self-conscious – but not any more!

My mindset has completely shifted – I plan all my meals, take healthy food into work and think about where my triggers are likely to be. I can head out and enjoy myself, knowing that if I go slightly off plan, I’ll quickly get back on it. I have a better relationship with food, and I only enjoy eating healthily now! I’m in total control these days, which is such a nice feeling.

I’ve picked up so many great Food Optimising recipes and ideas from other members.

Learn more about Slimming World’s healthy eating plan

I’m now a size 10, which I’ve never been before. I’m proud that I’ve reached my target weight and even prouder that I’m maintaining it. I’m confident that it’ll continue, as it’s just a way of life for me now.

My transformation has been about so much more than the physical changes. I’ve had lovely, confidence-boosting compliments from friends, family and colleagues. The biggest reward has been how much better I feel, though. My arthritic knee pain is gone, and my MS symptoms are stable. I now have a monthly injection to manage the condition, but I truly believe that losing weight has played a key role in keeping my symptoms at bay.

This whole journey has been about taking back control – of my health, my happiness and my life. I’m stronger, healthier and more determined than ever, as I’m doing it not only for me, but for my daughter, too. I’ve proved to myself that with commitment, support and a bit of self-belief, anything is possible.

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