A woman has credited a Flintshire slimming group with giving her a 'new quality of life.'
Joan Evans joined Tracey Evans’ Slimming World group in Buckley in May last year, after spending three years in declining health and grief following the loss of her husband of 54 years.
During that time, she struggled with lung infections, limited mobility, and poor breath control, relying on a walking stick and finding daily tasks overwhelming.
She said: "Back then, I couldn’t stand for long or walk anywhere without struggling.
"I was relying on my stick just to get by.
"It felt like my world was getting smaller and smaller."
Encouraged by a friend, she decided to join the group and start Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan.
Since then, she has lost 131lb (nearly 9.5 stone) and says her life has changed completely.
She no longer needs a walking stick, can walk without difficulty, and finds breathing easier.
Tasks like housework and gardening, once exhausting, are now manageable.
She has also been able to join in social activities she previously thought impossible, including chair yoga and aquafit classes.
Mrs Evans said: "I’ve got a new quality of life.
"I can do things I never imagined I’d be able to do again.
"I’m more active, I’m socialising more, and I feel healthier and happier than I have in years."
Her journey was not without challenges.
She was particularly worried about socialising, wanting to enjoy meals out while staying on track with her weight loss.
Mrs Evans said: "I would research menus beforehand to make the best choice.
"Sometimes I even contacted the venue to ask about small changes to dishes, and they were always happy to help."
This strategy allowed her to continue enjoying time with loved ones without compromising her goals.
She said: "It gave me even more confidence.
"I realised I didn’t have to choose between losing weight and spending time with the people I love.
"I could do both."
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Mrs Evans credits her success to the flexibility of the Food Optimising plan, which she was able to adapt despite not being able to eat certain fruits and vegetables.
She said: "At first, I wasn’t sure how it would work for me, especially because my body doesn’t tolerate some fruit and veg like bananas, tomatoes, peppers, and radishes.
"But I soon discovered that with Food Optimising, I could adapt my meals and still stay on plan."
By using Slimming World’s books and magazines, she learned how to create filling meals that suited her dietary needs.
She said: "I was so happy when I realised I didn’t have to miss out.
"I could eat hearty, tasty meals, feel full, and still lose weight."
She also praised the support she received from her Slimming World group.
She said: "I have made some amazing new friends at my group.
"Everyone is so friendly and supportive.
"Slimming World hasn’t just helped me lose weight – it’s given me my life back."
Looking ahead, Mrs Evans remains motivated to reach her 9.5 stone award and achieve her dream target weight by the end of September.
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