“I COMMITTED TO REGULAR WALKS”

“When I lost my mum to a stroke in 2011, it was a huge wake-up call. She’d been well and just collapsed while shopping. I was both in shock at losing Mum so suddenly, and terrified of what it might mean for my own health. As well as having diabetes, I have a family history of heart problems and high blood pressure – after Mum’s stroke I knew I had to make some changes.

“At the time I was overweight and injecting insulin four times a day to manage type 2 diabetes, which I was diagnosed with in 1998 at age 28. I decided to join Weight Watchers and it was perfect for me. I lost 35kg and could stop taking my diabetes medications – including insulin. Even losing the first 5kg made a difference. I was surprised at how quickly the weight loss had

Vicky Barber lost 35kg by making a series of

small changes

a positive effect on my health and diabetes management, which motivated me to keep going.

“The biggest ‘small change’ I made was reducing portion size. Once I learnt what a healthy portion was, I was shocked at how big mine were! The other thing I did was go for regular walks. It really worked to shift weight, and still does. The more active I am, the more exercise I want to do.

“I still have about six kilos to lose, and it isn’t easy. But while there are ups and downs, I enjoy going out and even have the occasional piece of chocolate. The benefits have been enormous.”