Inspiring grandma a shadow of herself

Joan Wilson who lost 74lbs to turn her life around

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A QUEST to overcome a life-long battle with her weight has been truly life-changing for inspirational grandmother Joan Wilson who is now tonnes happier.

And after losing over five stone, going from 14st 8lb to a slim 9st 4lb, Joan, from Fitton Hill, has splashed out on her first-ever size eight dress to celebrate.

But although the 72-year-old, who was a size 22, says she feels the fittest and healthiest she's ever been, Joan says its been a long, hard road to get to where she is today.

Personal tragedies and heartache were behind her decision to finally address her weight problems.

The mum-of-two, who is 4ft 10in tall, was diagnosed with breast cancer and was left devastated by the death of her beloved 90-year-old mum, Mary Prince.

Describing herself as "at rock bottom", she was referred to a health adviser at Hilltop Surgery, who set her on a path of enlightenment which would transform her forever.

After almost a year with WeightWatchers coach Lisa Warwick at her Hollins group, Joan has shed a 74lb and she says she feels she can now tackle anything.

"I was at rock bottom," she said. "On top of the breast cancer I had family problems and my mum died which was massive for me.

"You have friends, but you don't want to burden them all the time. So I spoke to my doctor and he told me to speak to their health adviser.

"I poured everything out and she just looked at me and said, 'What do you want to do for you?'"

"I said I really wanted to lose some weight and she said there was a scheme where she could give me some vouchers for WeightWatchers. I finally plucked up the courage to go to the Hollins group.

"As soon as I walked in everyone was really nice and friendly."

Joan added: "I didn't have a clue how much I wanted to lose because I thought I was too far gone, but I just followed their programme and the weight came off. I'm not a great cook but I've managed with the recipes.

"I've got into my 70s and finally cracked it after all these years!

"I feel really good and healthy and it's given me amazing confidence.

"Lisa is really special and she inspires all of us. No matter what she just seems to know us so well.

"I now do Zumba every week and still go to WeightWatchers because I just love going and seeing everyone and we all support each other."

Lisa, who runs the group at Hollins Methodist Church, said she really wanted to share Joan's tory to inspire others to take the plunge.

"Joan is a remarkable person who has transformed inside and out," Lisa said.

"She has gone from strength to strength and built up her confidence. She found herself at an all-time low but luckily visiting her GP has had a very positive result."