04/02/2026
As part of our event, I spoke to CEDA Activity Hub member Heather about her recent journey to improve her personal health and wellbeing.
Well done Heather – wonderful to see you feeling fab and living your best life!!!
👇Read the full interview below👇
What made you decide you wanted to start this journey?
“It was a bit of a spur of the moment decision, I found I was struggling with my mobility and losing weight had been mentioned by health professionals before. One week I’d just had enough and made an appointment to see the GP.”
What were the changes you made that really helped?
“The GP referred me to a dietitian, who advised me to focus on the importance of building good eating habits as well as taking regular exercise. I joined the gym at St Sidwell's Point, I had been on a tour when it opened and knew it was accessible but it was still overwhelming at first. I worked with a personal trainer there, Tom”
“I also got my exercise bike at home – along with the gym sessions this helped get into the habit of exercising regularly.”
What was the hardest part?
“Worrying about judgement, especially at the gym. I felt very conscious about being overweight and being in a wheelchair but having the personal trainer really helped with this.”
Where there any parts that were easier than you expected?
“Sticking with the gym – but it was the personal trainer that kept me going. I don't know if I’d have had the motivation to carry on if I was doing it by myself, so it was really worth it having him.”
How do you feel now compared to before?
“My mental health is much improved, I feel a lot more stable with my emotions. I don't get so many “down days” and I feel much more confident. My energy has improved too – I struggled with motivation and mobility before and as a result my flat had become very messy as I was also a bit of a hoarder. Since I've had increased mobility and improved mental health, I see mess and feel much more motivated to sort it out!”
What moment made you realise, “I’m doing this!”?
“When I compared photos – my dietitian has advised me to take pictures to map progress and after a couple of months I could really see a difference.”
What would you say to someone who feels nervous about starting?
“Just go for it – you've got nothing to lose and it’s more than some people do!”
What helped you keep going on tough days?
“Knowing that I didn't want to undo all my hard work”
What do you wish people understood better about weight loss and disability?
“Just because you have a disability doesn't mean you can’t do it.”
What goals do you have now?
“Keep doing what I'm doing and stick to my new routine.”
