From leaflet to life-changer: Kerry crowned Woman of the Year
At our 9:00am New Houghton group, Kerry has truly shone this year. With an incredible 1st 7lbs loss, she’s not only transformed her health and lifestyle, but has also been crowned our Woman of the Year.
Kerry’s Slimming World journey actually started twice. Back in 2013 she first joined and lost 4 stone, proving to herself that the plan works. After a few years away, she decided in January 2025 that it was time to focus on her health again. By chance, a leaflet for my group landed on her doorstep just before Christmas – and the timing couldn’t have been more perfect.
“I’d been overweight for years,” Kerry admits. “But I told myself in the new year that I needed to lose weight and be healthier. When I saw that leaflet, I knew it was the right time.”
Like many, Kerry had tried other weight-loss methods in the past, including calorie counting and Weight Watchers, but nothing clicked in the same way.
“I just couldn’t get my head around those plans,” she explains. “With Slimming World it makes sense – the support, the Food Optimising plan, and the fact that nothing is off-limits.”
Her life before Slimming World looked very different. Breakfast rarely happened, lunch was a sandwich with a share bag of crisps, and dinner often involved fried chips, fried eggs and steak cooked in oil – with hardly a vegetable in sight. Snacks? Crisps, chocolate, and the occasional piece of fruit.
Now, Kerry’s meals are balanced and filling, with plenty of vegetables. She’s learned about portion control and the power of filling one-third of her plate with speed foods. The result? Not only steady weight loss, but also a healthier, more energised lifestyle.
And the benefits go beyond the scales.
“I’ve adjusted quickly to the changes,” she smiles. “Something as simple as fitting in the bath comfortably again feels amazing.”
Activity has become part of her journey too. Before, exercise was minimal – the odd walk here and there. Now, Kerry enjoys regular walks, attends a dance class, and even makes use of a fitness stepper at home.
When she does eat out, Kerry has strategies that work.
“I don’t eat out a lot, but when I do, I usually go for a carvery. It’s easy to keep it on plan and still enjoy it.”
Like many members, the thought of joining a new group felt daunting at first.
“I was embarrassed walking through the doors on my first week,” Kerry admits. “But everyone was so welcoming – I felt at ease straight away.”
That sense of community has been a big part of her success. Not only is her group behind her 100%, but her colleagues are too – because they’ve joined Slimming World as well!
“They’re all supporting me because they’re doing it themselves. It’s amazing to have that kind of encouragement at work and in group.”
Kerry’s journey is proof of what can be achieved with determination, the right support, and a plan that really works. She’s an inspiration to all of us at New Houghton – and a very worthy Woman of the Year. 💕
To join Slimming World New Houghton contact Marissa on 07935741141 or pop along to the Community Centre on Saturday morning at 7:30am or 9:00am