30/12/2025
I am so incredibly proud to share Mark’s story today 💙
His journey is honest, powerful and a real reminder that weight loss isn’t about perfection - it’s about persistence, mindset and the support we give each other along the way. I know so many of you will see a little bit of yourselves in his words.
Mark’s Story 💙
"I was encouraged by existing members to give Slimming World a go. I had nothing to lose after trying - and struggling - to lose weight by myself.
What I love most about Food Optimising is the freedom and choice. I can still enjoy tempting foods while understanding the consequences of my choices. I tend to do more SP-led meals, but I know I can still stay fully on plan when I am away from home. My husband eats the same meals as me most of the time - he just enjoys a few extra swips.
Weight loss is a journey, with many paths, hills and valleys. My biggest challenge has been learning how to keep persisting during those uphill moments of weight gain - understanding why I gave in to temptation and how to change my mindset so I can move forward.
The changes I have experienced have been incredible. I am now wearing clothes I haven’t taken out of my wardrobe for over five years. I feel fitter and more able, and I regularly use my exercise bike to tone up and keep moving.
My health has improved hugely too. My cholesterol has dropped - I refused to go on statins because I was determined to get it under control through weight loss, and I did. My arthritis is now far better managed and almost non-existent. At nearly 22-23 stone, I was heading towards being pre-diabetic, but that never happened. I rescued myself in time.
What has been absolutely key for me is consistently attending group - even during weeks of mild or severe weight gain. Staying committed to the ethos of group support has made all the difference. There is always advice, motivation, shared understanding during gains, and genuine joy in celebrating each other’s losses.
The 5.30pm Yapton group was not what I expected when I joined. Any preconceived ideas I had about weight loss clubs were gone within a few sessions. It is social, uplifting and full of positivity - a truly supportive and rewarding culture".
Mark, thank you for trusting me - and our 5.30pm Yapton group - with your journey.
Your commitment, openness and support of others is truly inspirational. I couldn’t be prouder 💫 and how amazing to now be 5.5 stone lighter and so close to your target 🤩🤩