It was in January 2001, just after Christmas. I'd eaten all the cake, had my fill of turkey (with all the trimmings). I felt bloated, fat and ugly, probably due to all the steroids I was taking because of all my 'current' illnesses. I say current because over the previous six years my health has been suffering for a number of reasons

My daughter died after 16 months, then I had a non-malignant lump removed during a hysterectomy. I had now been diagnosed with Auto- immune disease, which means
that I was experiencing anaphylactic shock attacks at least every other day. Which meant 999 calls and sometimes they needed to resuscitate me which meant lots of steroids etc.

Because of being out of work due to my illness, I was coming home after taking the children to school and eating anything from three packets of crisps to a pork pie. I decided enough was enough. Surely a well balanced diet would help my health and the way I felt about myself? I was sick, sick of hospitals and sick of feeling fat and ugly.

I remember that first night at class, I dreaded those scales, but I found everyone friendly and Julie Robbins, the Group Leader was sympathetic and full of encouragement. I weighed in at 13st but I went home full of determination. I am not going to pretend that it has been easy because it hasn't. I've had my ups and downs but have got there in the end.

During my "battle with the bulge" I was also diagnosed with a significant amount of pressure on the brain and if I did not lose weight it would be life threatening. I was taken into hospital again for a number of lumber punctures. I also had a number of brain scans. Medication was again prescribed and I was advised to lose more weight as I had a long way to my goal. It set me back quite a bit but I was still determined and I found Julie and the rest of the members really encouraging and they helped me even when I couldn't attend class. I also received support from my mother and best friend, Vicky.

Finally the day came, two weeks before Christmas. I stood on the scales with hands sweating and my heart pounding. Julie picked up the bell and rang it, I was at target!! I grabbed my Mum and started crying. I was 9st and a size 10 again, from a size 18. My husband, Lee, was really proud of me but a bit worried when I told him I would need new clothes.

I owe it all to Super Slim, I couldn't have done it on my own. Thank you as well to Julie and the members for my new found happiness.

Starting Weight = 12st 5lbs
Total Weight Loss = 3st 0lbs
Weight Now = 9st 5lbs