At St Wulfstan Surgery we love hearing inspirational stories. And if you have one to share, please get in touch by emailing us.
This week we hear from Jim who managed to achieve his weight loss objectives. As we know, obesity increases our risk of suffering heart attack, stroke, diabetes, joint disease, worse outcomes from infections such as COVID and generally reduces our quality of life, mood and self esteem.
In the past 11 months Jim has managed to loose an incredible 10 stone (63kg).
Please read on for his story below. If you are looking for help with diet and exercise please feel free to read what weight loss options we have available.
“Hi, I’m Jim, I’m 45 years old. For almost 20 years, since finishing university my weight seemed to get worse and worse each year, to the point that in 2016 I weighed 197kg (31 Stone). There are no pictures from this time as I felt great shame in my appearance. I was in constant pain, hips burning if I ever tried walking, always wondering each time that I sat down whether A) I would fit in the chair and B) if it could take my weight. I suffered from sleep apnea, had high blood pressure, and was on meds for acid reflux, high cholesterol and for severe anxiety. The picture was me in the spring of 2018, about 180kg and I look ill!
Roll forwards to the start of the covid 19 situation and I was scared as I was so over weight (BMI was 54 at it’s worst) It got to the stage last Seember that I was so worried by the impact covid could potentially have on me that I decided to do something about my health and weight. I got advice about diet, about doing exercise and how to safely lose the weight.
In the past 11 months I have lost 63kg (10 stone). I often get asked how I have done it, as if there is a magic pill which can be taken (there really isn’t). I have done this by consistently eating the right food (and amount), exercising 5 times a week, sleeping enough and drinking plenty of water. It has been thousands of small steps, setting small goals which are achievable. If I can do it then anyone really can.
My life now. Wow, it’s 1000 times better than it was, I no longer take any of those meds I mentioned previously, I sleep 8 hours every night and its the most restful sleep I think I’ve ever had. I do 20 mins of light cardio 5 times a week. Some weight training and yoga. I now really enjoy doing exercise, I don’t get out of breathe going for a walk, life is great. ”