LEANNE'S STORY
Leanne’s Incredible Weight Loss Journey: 15 and a half stones, 3 Years, One Life Transformed
When I first sat down with Leanne over coffee to hear her full story, her words stayed with me. “I’d tried every diet under the sun, but nothing stuck. At my heaviest, I was 24 stone 4 pounds, battling chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and sleep apnoea. My life felt like a constant struggle,” she began, her voice tinged with emotion. “When I had to go to a private clinic for an MRI because my local hospitals couldn’t accommodate my weight, I felt utterly ashamed.” Today, Leanne is a glowing testament to transformation, having shed an astonishing 15 and a half stones over three years. Her journey wasn’t just about weight loss but reclaiming her health, confidence, and zest for life. This is her story.
Leanne’s weight impacted every aspect of her life. “I couldn’t climb stairs without gasping for breath. Simple tasks left me exhausted. My weight even led to gestational diabetes during pregnancy,” she shares. Anxiety compounded her challenges, leaving her housebound and reliant on her daughter for support in social situations. “I’d wake up every day feeling defeated, stuck in a cycle of pain and exhaustion.”
A turning point came when she learned about my group, Best of You. Despite her apprehension, Leanne decided to attend a meeting. “I was at my lowest point, but something about Michelle’s approach—focusing on community and sustainable habits—gave me a glimmer of hope.”
The first few months were tough. “My anxiety was so bad I could only attend sporadically,” Leanne admits. But the warmth and encouragement she found at Best of You began to shift her mindset. “Michelle’s advice to focus on wellness habits, not just the scales, was life-changing. For the first time, I felt like I wasn’t alone in this journey.”
A breakthrough came when Leanne revisited an old passion: swimming. “The group encouraged me to find activities I loved that suited my body. Swimming became my escape and my therapy.”
Leanne set smaller, manageable goals. “If I’d thought, ‘I need to lose 15 stones,’ I’d have been overwhelmed by the thought. Instead, I focused on losing half a stone at a time,” she explains. Each milestone—a new stone bracket, dropping a dress size, wearing jeans again—fuelled her determination.
Food became fuel rather than a reward. “Michelle helped me rethink my relationship with food. Now, I prioritise protein-rich meals that keep me full and satisfied,” Leanne says. Her typical day includes protein yogurt for breakfast, a tuna mayo sandwich for lunch, and dinners like chicken or salmon with plenty of vegetables. Portion control and honest tracking became second nature. “Even when I eat out, I’ll indulge in a dessert like sticky toffee pudding but stay mindful of my choices.”
Exercise also became integral. A pivotal moment came when her husband needed surgery, leaving Leanne responsible for the school run. “Walking 30 minutes each way felt impossible at first. But I started building up my steps gradually. By the time his surgery came around, I could do it without issue. That was a proud moment for me and my family.”
Support from the group and myself was invaluable. “Michelle’s belief in me never wavered. She taught me that setbacks are part of the journey and that showing up, especially on hard weeks, is essential.”
Leanne also credits her family as her biggest supporter. “My eldest daughter came to meetings with me at the start when my anxiety was at its worst. My sons joined me for walks, and my husband is the cook of the house, he prepared delicious, low-calorie meals for me. They’ve all been so encouraging, which made me realise how crucial a support network is when making big life changes.”
Leanne’s journey wasn’t without obstacles. The loss of her mum was one of the hardest times. “Grief almost pulled me back into old habits, but the support from Best of You and my family kept me going. I learned that during tough times, showing up for myself was the best act of self-care.”
Adjusting to her new body also took time. “I’ve been left with some excess skin, which I hope to have removed. But I’ve gone from a size 30 to a size 10, and shopping is a joy now. I feel more confident and no longer dread photos or social outings.”
Leanne’s transformation isn’t just physical. “I’ve gained so much more than I’ve lost. My health has improved drastically—no more sleep apnoea, less medication, and my pain is under control. I can walk, swim, and play with my kids without feeling out of breath.”
Her family life has blossomed. “We walk together, cook together, and spend quality time outdoors. I’m no longer watching life from the sidelines.” A special highlight was going on holiday and fully participating in activities. “I went on water slides, jet skied, and even parasailed! For the first time, I wasn’t limited by my body.”
A deeply personal victory was being able to wear her Nan’s wedding ring again. “It’s a symbol of how far I’ve come. I know she would be so proud of me.”
Leanne’s advice to others is simple yet profound: “Give yourself time to invest in yourself. The time will pass anyway, so why not spend it becoming the best version of yourself? Your future self will thank you.”
Today, Leanne is thriving. “I take pride in my appearance, prioritise self-care, and have the energy to embrace life. I’m even considering further education—something I’d never have dreamed of before.”
Her success is a testament to resilience, the power of community, and the right support. “Joining Best of You changed my life. Michelle and the group gave me the tools and encouragement I needed to succeed. If I can do it, anyone can.”
Leanne’s story is a beacon of hope for anyone feeling stuck. Her transformation proves that with determination, the right support, and a focus on lasting habits, life-changing results are possible. So, why not take that first step today? As Leanne says, “Your future self will thank you.”
What Could You Achieve in 12 Weeks?
Imagine feeling healthier, stronger, and more confident just in time for spring. With the right support, tools, and encouragement, you can make it happen!
Join my 12-Week Weight Loss Program for just £50, and let’s work together to create the change you’ve been looking for.