October 1999 I had to have a hysterectomy, due to health problems I weighted 13 stone. After the operation I was put on HRT. Within a couple of months my weight started going up, my Doctor actually noted me as being morbidly obese, but gave me no encouragement to lose weight.

October 2001 I became depressed about myself, I felt gross and worthless. Each time I had a social evening I would cry while I tried several outfits and still feel awful. I felt like a barrel and not young women in her early thirties.

I stopped shopping for clothes and began to feel increasingly unattractive. I also suffered with knee problems and spent a lot of time in pain. I had no energy and no inclination to do anything, my depression had really set in the misery of being fat, was beginning to swallow the thin person inside up.

By December that year I had stopped shopping for clothes and was squeezing into size 22 trousers and size 24 tops all of which were stretchy fabric. I never wanted to go anywhere with my husband socialising and never the energy to run about with my three children. My life was not fun and everyday tasks were difficult. That year I told my family not to buy me clothes for my birthday in December or for Christmas.

Then in the last week of December I saw the advert for Super Slim, it was not a diet club I was familiar with, but was very local to where I lived. I had tried various diets and diet clubs over the years but never lost more than 1 stone, this time however the thin person inside began to fight back, I knew I had hit rock bottom and had to do something. The only person I confided in was my husband, who has been a tremendous support. I went along on January 7th, 2002; I did not know a soul, Mary O'Conner the group leader made me feel really welcome, when I hit the scales at 14 stone 4 lbs she just helped fill me with determination. Then my friend Janet Lakin walked in and I knew I had an aly. She is now my clerk for both classes.

Since then I have lost 59 lbs and my life has changed dramatically. I now run the Aldridge class and have a lunchtime and evening session. I would never have come this far without Mary's support and friendship.

Last December was my birthday and Christmas I asked my family if they would mind giving me money instead of presents. I began attacking shops on Boxing Day and didn't stop until halfway through January. The only tears these days are from husband when I say I'm going shopping.

I now go out 3 or 4 times a week, my family and friends are all so proud of me. The members of my class give continued support and say I give them inspiration.

The doctor who put in writing that I was morbidly obese no longer recognises me if I'm at the surgery. My friends and the Moms from the School my children go to believe I am the same women and I tell them I am not thanks to Super Slim I'm the new improved version and here to stay.

Starting Weight = 14st 4lbs
Total Weight Loss = 4st 2lbs
Weight Now = 10st 2lbs