Proud Ian is glad to be a big loser
63year- old’s shed four and a half stone
A 63- ye a r - old man with a history of health complications has lost more than four stone thanks to South Ayrshire’s Weigh to Go programme.
Ian Lyell, of Ayr, has lost four and a half stones as a result of the weight management scheme. And Ian has had several health complications including a stroke ten years ago, kidney cancer five years ago and a heart attack in 2016. After his heart attack, Ian lost a lot of confidence. He was afraid to leave his house let alone exercise, This resulted in gaining two stone in weight. Ian’s GP suggested joining the Weigh to Go programme. Through dedication and hard work, he has developed a real love for cycling. He now takes part in fortnightly cycle sessions with the Active Travel Hub, where he is now a volunteer and is also a member of Cycling UK, CTC Ayrshire and regularly goes on cycles up to 45 miles. Speaking of his success, Ian said: “It gets me out and about. I could have gone on using my exercise bike at home but now I’m having much more fun.” Weigh to Go offers classes on healthy eating and nutrition. Ian says that thanks to Weigh to Go, he is now more aware of the food he buys in supermarkets. He said: “The classes showed me what to eat and how much to eat. I always check the food packaging labels when I’m in supermarkets and always go for green and amber and not red.” As well as his successful weight loss, Ian now volunteers with walks and is looking forward to volunteering with Cycling groups. He said: “Join Weigh to Go, you won’t look back, it’s a fantastic class”. Councillor Brian McGinley, economic development, tourism and leisure portfolio holder for the council said: “Well done to Ian and everyone else who’s getting active and staying active through Weigh to Go. Together with the NHS, we have the facilities and the expert staff to help make a real difference to people’s lives no matter their age or background.” Natalie Linden, advanced specialist dietitian for NHS Ayrshire and Arran said: “We are delighted to hear of Ian’s success through attending the Weigh to Go Ayrshire programme. It’s great to see that he’s now giving back to the community through volunteering. Latest statistics show that two thirds of the Ayrshire population are overweight or obese. This is higher than the national average. To find out more visit www. nhsaaa. net and search for Weigh to go.
It’s great to see he’s giving back to the community through volunteering