Hartlepool mum and son lose almost 12 stones between them after slimming journey

Jan Steele and her son Adam, who has autism, joined Slimming World in Dyke House together when Jan was worried about his weight.

At the time Adam weighed 22 st 1.5 lb and was almost too big for the bath.

Jan said: “I thought I need to do something. I said ‘do you fancy joining Slimming World?’ and he said yes.

"I looked at myself and thought I could do with losing a few pounds too.”

Over the following year Adam, 24, shed 6 st 7.5 lb, while Jan lost 5 st 10 lb with the group’s healthy recipes and taking up more exercise.

Jan spoke about her and Adam’s successful journey as many people look to lose weight at the start of the new year for resolutions or to shed Christmas over indulgence.

She said: “As soon as we walked into the group Gill the consultant was so inviting. Adam just loved it and took to it really well.”

The group’s tips, recipes and motivational support helped Adam to cut down on unhealthy food and portion sizes.

While Jan, 47, who now weighs 11 st 1 lb, ate balanced meals rather than snatched snacks and lots of coffee.

"It’s a whole journey and a life skill,” she said. “The beauty of Slimming World is you are never hungry. And I can still save my sins for a night when I watch my soaps but still have good meals.

“Adam always liked a lot on his plate before but now asks for smaller portions because the food is filling him. He eats lots of fish, veg and salad.

"He loves the way he feels now. And I have gone from a size 24 to 12.”

Jan hit her target weight during lockdown and Adam, who goes to Catcote Futures, achieved his Christmas wish to be 15 st 8 lb.

They both still attend the group which has moved online due to coronavirus restrictions.

Members also share tips and recipes on the Facebook group Slimming World With Gill.

Jan added: “I would say to people who want to lose weight to do it for yourself.”

For details of your nearest group visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk

Support your Mail and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest on Pools and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.