One year ago, Richard from Stevenage looked up at a hill in Wales and set himself a challenge that felt out of reach. That steep climb sparked something powerful — a decision to transform his health and life without turning to weight-loss drugs. Just last weekend, Richard returned to that same Welsh hill and completed a 14-mile trek, cheered on by his fellow Slimming World Stevenage group members.
“What an amazing experience! This challenge was the catalyst that started my journey to becoming fitter and losing 9 stone,” Richard said. “The view was breathtaking – and I feel so happy I’ve achieved this. I want to thank everyone who has supported me on my journey.”
Richard’s transformation is not just physical. Over the past year, he’s embraced a more active lifestyle, taking on the Couch to 5k programme, running all the way to work, and showing what’s possible with steady determination and the right support. His journey proves that weight loss doesn’t need to involve hunger, fads, or medication.
Thanks to Slimming World’s Food Optimising plan, Richard has continued to enjoy the foods he loves without feeling deprived — all while shedding an incredible 9 stone. He credits the plan’s flexibility, along with the warm encouragement from his Slimming World consultant Sarah Lawrence, and his Saturday morning group at Fairlands School, for helping him build lifelong healthy habits.“He’s a real inspiration to us all”
Sarah Lawrence, a Slimming World Gold Consultant, has supported Richard throughout his journey. She says:
“Richard is a real inspiration to us all and we’re so proud of him. When he first joined, he wanted to lose weight and feel more confident. With belief in himself and the support of others who understand, he’s shown just how much is possible.”
Sarah also highlights a key point in today’s health conversations:
“Weight-loss drugs might offer short-term results, but without long-term lifestyle changes, the weight often returns. Slimming World is about sustainable, healthy living. And we welcome everyone — whether or not they choose to take medication — with open arms and zero judgement. We’re all in this together.”
Join the Journey
If Richard’s story has inspired you, why not take the first step on your own journey? Sarah Lawrence’s supportive and friendly groups run every Saturday morning at Fairlands School, Pound Avenue, at 7am, 8.30am, and 10am. To find out more, you can call 07986 947330.
Richard’s climb began with one small decision — and look how far it’s taken him. Whether you want to walk more, eat better, or feel confident in yourself again, help is right here in Stevenage. You don’t have to go it alone.
