Vanessa Teaches Wisbech (and the world) to slim!

If you are finding it hard to stick to the New Year's Resolutions you made, read this inspiring story about a woman from near Wisbech who lost over 5 stone!

Vanessa 27 of Tydd St Giles has been given a fresh start in life after losing over 5 1/2 stones and dropping four dress sizes so far with Slimming World and is singing from the roof tops about becoming a consultant to help others do the same!

After being overweight for just over a decade after a leg injury left her fearing exercise and lacking motivation, Vanessa changed from a happy and healthy teenager who enjoyed walking, canoeing and cycling to a self conscious young adult fearing people's judgement but dreaming of a life on stage in a band.

"I've been playing bass and singing for as long as I can remember but as well as the health implications, being overweight can have a serious

effect on your confidence" Vanessa explained. After years of ducking out of photos, avoiding social events and finding office based situations difficult due the judgmental opinions of others, Vanessa found a solution in a very unexpected source…

"One day, I was in the local music shop and I saw a man I hadn't seen in years- it was hard to recognize him as heʼd literally become half the size he was! His success was due to Slimming World- if he could do it, why couldnʼt I?"

Within 14 weeks of joining her local group Vanessahad lost 2 stone, but despite the warmth and support of her group she decided to go it alone.

"I thought I didnʼt need the weekly group anymore. Without the support from the other members, old bad habits started to creep back in. I didnʼt keep track of my progress and I let it all slide and put on most of what Iʼd lost. I now hope to act as an example, Iʼm so cross with myself for stopping when I know it works- Iʼm now more determined than ever… I rejoined Oct ʼ09 and since then have already lost over 5 1/2 stone! There is no humiliation with Slimming World, your weight is never disclosed- just your weight loss for that week and the other members are there on hand losingwith you to give you extra ideas and motivational tips."

Slimming World's unique food optimising plans mean you never go hungry whist still enjoying all your favourites from Full English Breakfasts to Roast Dinners to Steak & Chips and as you setyour own targets- their only aim is to help you become more happy and healthy and stay that way!

Vanessa went on to say: "It isnʼt about weighing portions or calorie counting. It really is just common sense and family friendlyhealthy eating!"

Vanessa is confident about reaching her target and sticking to it this time and runs two Slimming World Groups each Week- Mondays 3:30pm, 5:30pm and 7:30pm White Lion Hotel, South Brink and Thursdays 5:30pm and 7:30pm Leverington Sports & Social Club, Church Road.

"I want to help others do the same! I spent too many years feeling hopeless when the answer was waiting for me at my local group! I want to help people re-claim their lives just like Iʼve been doing.

Itʼs not just how you physically are, itʼs how you feel!"

Losing weight hasnʼt just helped her confidence either. After Vanessaʼs parents experienced their own health problems- sheʼs been able to step in and help look after their animals leaving her feelingmore energized than ever and ready for new challenges. "Iʼve been so terrified of exercise I build up barriers that made it seem hopeless, doing a little bit a day such as taking the stairs really does go a long way and has boosted my weight loss Iʼm sure!"

If you would like to find our more then why not visit Vanessa at the group (see the Events section for details) or log onto the website to find your local group at www.slimmingworld.com