Michelle Siderfin, a 46-year-old supermarket deputy manager from Manchester, has courageously shared the pivotal moment that motivated her to lose an astonishing eight stone. Formerly a self-confessed “takeaway addict,” Michelle spent nearly £600 a month ordering fast food, relying heavily on delivery apps and rarely cooking at home.
At her heaviest, Michelle weighed 16st 6lb and endured painful experiences, including strangers mistakenly thinking she was pregnant. Her health was deteriorating rapidly, and doctors warned her she was morbidly obese and at risk of serious complications.
The catalyst for change came unexpectedly during a family holiday. “We were sitting around the pool when I sat on a plastic chair—the back leg snapped, and I fell backwards, hitting the back of my head,” Michelle recalls. “I was so embarrassed; I didn’t want anyone to see. It was mortifying and a real wake-up call.”
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That embarrassing accident, coupled with a diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes, forced Michelle to confront the reality of her lifestyle. She admitted to consuming large portions of takeaway meals daily, from naan bread and curry to McDonald’s breakfasts and bakery treats, spending more on food than her own mortgage.
Despite warnings from her GP about the risks of a heart attack and potential vision loss, Michelle initially found comfort in food, feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to change. “I knew my weight had spiraled out of control,” she shares. “Being told I was morbidly obese didn’t stop me immediately.”
After several unsuccessful attempts with various weight loss programs, Michelle discovered Slimming World six years ago. Through this supportive community, she reshaped her mindset and lifestyle, gradually shedding over eight stone.
Her transformation extended beyond physical health. Michelle, who once avoided social interaction, now embraces public speaking and openly shares her journey. “I hated my body before and had a negative view of myself,” she says. “Now, I feel absolutely amazing.”
Michelle’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of finding the right motivation to reclaim health and confidence.