A super slimmer has been crowned diamond member of the year after setting a dazzling example of long-term weight loss.
Sandra Fulton, from Airdrie, was recognised by her fellow Slimming World members following her terrific achievement of shedding 3st in 10 months.
The 56-year-old gran, who dropped from 13st to 10st, was named the Airdrie Salvation Army hall’s diamond member of the year – awarded to the group’s “most inspirational member who has lost weight and maintained their new shape”.
Sandra decided to join Slimming World after struggling for breath while walking or doing “any sort of activity”; even her work was draining her.
After dropping three dress sizes, though, she no longer struggles to breathe, has much more energy and “even sleeps better”.
Sandra said: “Like most people, I’d tried to lose weight countless times, yet nothing ever really seemed to stick.
“Slimming World was completely different because it was just so simple; I could still enjoy hearty, home-cooked meals with my family while losing weight.
“Previous weight-loss attempts left me feeling hungry – nowadays I probably eat more than ever!
“With Slimming World, the support that I needed was there right from day one, both from my consultant Tracy Brown and the other members in the group.
“I started to really believe that I could do it; and I did because, two-and-a-half years later, I’m still at my target weight.”
As the weight came off, Sandra found herself breathing easier, being more confident, feeling healthier and full of energy.
But Sandra says the best part of getting fitter and healthier has to be running around after her grandson Carter.
And with another grandson due anytime, she added: “One active, energetic, excited little boy is a real workout as I love to do things and spend time playing and running around with him.
“I know I would never have been able to do all of that if I was still 3st heavier.”
Since reaching her target weight, Sandra has continued to attend her Slimming World group and believes that without their unwavering support she would have struggled to maintain her success.
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She said: “I have made so many friends that I can’t imagine not going to the group each week.
“I’m now part of the social team and love to help new members settle in. Everyone inspired and supported me to achieve my target and now it’s my turn to do the same for other people.”
Tracy Brown, who runs the Airdrie Salvation Army hall group, added: “At Slimming World, we believe that losing weight and maintaining for the long term is the most under-recognised achievement in weight management.
“I’m so proud of Sandra and the inspirational way in which she’s done this.
“It’s always great for new members to meet Sandra and see just what’s possible at Slimming World.”
To find out more information about Tracy’s group, which is held every Thursday at 7.30am, 9.30am, 11.30am
and 5.30pm, pop along, call Tracy on 07957 762378 or visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk
