04/01/2026
Michelle achieved her Target dream weight just before Christmas, here's her story...
From Struggle to Success: How Slimming World Changed My Life
For as long as I can remember, weight has been a battle. Since puberty, I’ve tried countless diets, but sticking to them was always a challenge. In 2017, I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, and by 2019, I was taking metformin alongside medication for high blood pressure.
When I moved to Ripon in 2021, my diabetic nurse suggested the soup and shake diet – 800 calories a day for 12 weeks. At the time, I weighed over 14 stone. Determined, I stuck to it rigidly and lost 3 stone. But to my disappointment, I was still diabetic. I managed to keep the weight off while I had support, but once that ended, old habits crept back in, and soon I was over 13 stone again.
Then, in September 2024, a healthcare assistant asked if I’d tried Slimming World. Coincidentally, a leaflet had just come through my door, so I thought, “Why not?” and gave Charlotte a call. I was sceptical – I’d tried Slimming World years ago when it was all about green and red days – but Charlotte encouraged me to attend a session and give it a go.
From the start, I found the Food Optimising plan easy to follow. In my first week, I lost 5lb. The 8.00am group was warm, welcoming, and full of encouragement. Sharing tips, trying new meals, and hearing others’ success stories inspired me to keep going.
By December 2025, I hit my target weight – a total loss of 4 stone, 3 of those with Slimming World. Even better, I’ve reduced my blood pressure medication and put my diabetes into remission. I’ve stopped all medication for it.
I know I’ll keep the weight off by continuing to attend group, follow Food Optimising, and get support from Charlotte. If you’re in two minds about trying Slimming World, all I can say is this: if I can do it at 55, so can you.