A year ago Kieran Mageean was 23 stone and suffering from depression - but has now lost over eight stone and is oozing with confidence.
Living with obesity his whole life, the 35-year-old decided to change it for the better after his weight was contributing to low self-esteem and poor health.
The Co Down man joined his local Slimming World class where he made friends for life and gained the knowledge and support to help him in his weight loss journey.
Kieran, from Ardglass , told Belfast Live that he has been overweight since childhood , and that last year he said "enough is enough" as he opened a new chapter in his life.
He said: "I basically had enough of being obese. My whole life I was overweight and it spiralled out of control to the point I got to 23 stone.
"I knew after Christmas I had to start a new era of my life and joined Slimming World in January 2018.
"I was nervous but determined and focused. I've suffered with anxiety and depression for 15 years but Slimming World actually gave me focus to succeed in something, and not just in diet terms.
"The journey has honestly felt so quick. I thought it would be a long slow nightmare of a journey but it's been so quick and enjoyable. When the scales give you good news it gives you so much determination for the week coming."
Kieran, who works in the Downe Hospital in Downpatrick , has currently lost 8st 2lbs and is feeling fitter and healthier than before. He now weighs 14st 13lb.
Not only has it been a huge benefit to his health but he says his confidence has grown and he is less afraid of what others thing of him.
He said: "I still suffer from depression but being fitter and healthier has completely changed my mindset in life .
"I am more confident, feel more attractive and less scared of what people think about me.
"I am now at my target weight and my aim is to stay slim for the rest of my life."
Kieran has been selected to attend the finals of Man of the Year for Slimming World and is travelling to England to take part.
He said: "It's crazy to be in the final and honoured to have been chosen. Even if I don't win I'm still extremely proud to have been selected.
"If I can I lose over eight stone in weight then literally anyone can. For anyone not happy with their weight I would definitely recommend Slimming World as you can enjoy your food whilst losing weight. I actually found the plan a lot easier than I first feared.
"Our group and my consultant Leanne McLaughlin have been pivotal in my journey. I stay for image therapy every week because the support is amazing and you leave feeling more determined than when you walked in.
"It's truly an essential part for me. If I didn't stay and talk with the group and Leanne each week then I wouldn't be where I am now."
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