Terence is half the man he used to be
TERENCE said life before his weight loss was full of high-fat takeaways, crisps, chocolate and time alone in his room. He wanted to do something about it but a fear of not being able to change his ways was stopping him.
“I feel like a new man since losing weight. In fact, I look so different, that people who I haven’t seen for a while often can’t believe I’m the same person,” said Terence, who has lost a life-changing 14 stone, 12 and a half pounds.
The 28-year-old joined the St Mellons group, run by Anne Aherne, in February 2018. He said: “My weight impacted on so many aspects of my life, from struggling to find clothes that I liked to fit me to not being able to do simple everyday tasks without feeling tired and out of breath. Before I lost the weight, I hated going out and felt depressed, yet now I love it.”
Terence’s weight was putting a huge strain on his health. His doctor warned him that his weight was causing serious health problems and, if he didn’t do something about it, he would need to start taking insulin.
Obesity is the most significant risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, accounting for 80 to 85% of the overall risk in developing the condition. A large waist circumference is also a risk factor. By helping people lose weight and live a healthier lifestyle, Slimming World can dramatically reduce its members’ chances of developing diabetes.
Terence’s family knew a lifestyle change would help the way they all felt. So, having seen Slimming World leaflets and posters in the local area and after the GP warning, Terence, his mum Margaret and dad Terry, decided to join their local group at the Church of the Resurrection, Crickhowell Road, St Mellons.
On the first evening, the family were petrified as they walked to the entrance of the church, turning and walking half the way home before deciding to be brave and go in.
“Walking through those doors was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I was embarrassed about my size, but I needn’t have worried as everyone there was so friendly,” said Terence.
The family follow the food optimising plan, swapping takeaways for chicken, rice, vegetables, omelettes, salads and stews.
“People think slimming means going hungry, yet it’s not like that at all with Slimming World. I love food and it’s never once felt like a diet. I even food optimised when I went on holiday last year and lost weight.”
After gaining confidence, Terence has completely changed his lifestyle. He still enjoys playing video games, but he also goes to the gym and on long walks with his dog.
Anne Aherne, who runs the St Mellons Slimming World group, said: “The changes we’ve seen in Terence are incredible and I’m immensely proud of him. On his birthday, he is so committed to his new healthy lifestyle that rather than having a cake (which could have triggered old habits) Maggie made him a melon cake with sparklers and candles.”
Terence, Margaret and Terry have lost a staggering 24 stone between them and the family have inspired every member of the group.
“I hope their success will inspire other people who’d like to lose weight to take action by forming new lifestyle habits and become happier and healthier,” says Anne.
“There’s a warm welcome waiting at Slimming World and, just think, if you start today you could feel like a completely new person like Terence.”
■ The St Mellons group meets on Thursdays at the Church of the Resurrection. To join call Anne Aherne on 07825 569424 or pop along at 3pm, 5pm or 7pm.