Richard Sanok, a 70-year-old from Tuffley, Gloucester, has successfully shed an impressive six stone after years of fluctuating weight and battling borderline diabetes. His journey was far from easy, marked by repeated setbacks before a significant breakthrough sparked lasting change.
Back in 2020, Richard weighed 19 stone 10 pounds and was increasingly concerned about his health, especially as his blood sugar levels hovered in the borderline diabetic range. By December that year, through sheer willpower and lifestyle tweaks, he had slimmed down to 17 stone 10 pounds, marking an important personal victory.
However, in 2021, challenges returned. Weight gain crept back despite his best efforts, inching him close to his previous high. “That number really hit me,” Richard admits. “I realised I was heading toward serious health issues if I didn’t take action. I spent all of 2022 stuck in a frustrating loop: lose a few pounds, gain them back. Nothing felt sustainable.”
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Everything changed in January 2023 when Richard joined a family weight-loss challenge initiated by his daughter and her friends. The weekly weigh-ins created a motivational environment, giving him renewed focus. Over eight months, he made steady progress down to 18 stone four pounds. Yet by September, the scales again began fluctuating.
A visit to his doctor provided a pivotal wake-up call. Reminded of his ongoing risk for diabetes, Richard was introduced to a 12-week Slimming World referral programme. Despite a two-week holiday setback adding five pounds, he fully committed to the plan at 18 stone 9.5 pounds that September.
Since then, Richard embraced the structured support of Slimming World and quickly saw dramatic results. By October 2023, his weight loss accelerated, and within months he reached a staggering five-stone reduction. “I had to lower my target weight four times because each time, I realised I could go further. My mindset changed completely. I actually believed in myself,” he reflects.
Now, Richard regularly attends the Slimming World group at St George’s Church Hall in Tuffley. He credits the encouragement and guidance from Michelle and fellow members as vital to his success. “I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish this incredible transformation without them. Their support has meant everything,” he says.
Even after achieving his weight goal, Richard continues attending weekly sessions, enjoying the ongoing learning and motivation from the group.
More than just weight loss, Richard’s journey represents regaining control of his health, breaking free from yo-yo dieting, and embracing sustainable change. Healthier, more energetic, and optimistic, he has significantly lowered his diabetes risk and taken charge of his future.