Super slimmers celebrate losing 10st 9.5lbs together

Louisa Stokes and Makhosana Polkey joined the Werrington group after weight gain during the Covid-19 pandemic began to impact both their health and confidence. This led them to miss out on special moments with their children, from playing together on slides to feeling happy in photos.

Since starting their journey, the pair have transformed their weight, boosted their confidence and made lasting healthy changes to their everyday routines. Last month they were voted the group’s Two Together winners, which earned them a place at the national finals at Slimming World’s headquarters in Derbyshire.

The Two Together competition recognises Slimming World’s most inspiring weight-loss duos across the UK and Ireland – celebrating people who’ve motivated and supported each other through their journeys.

Louisa, 45, who at her heaviest was 17st 6.5lbs and now weighs 10st 8.5lbs, says: “I’d tried every diet going in the past but never stuck to anything long-term because I always felt restricted. Slimming World showed me it doesn’t have to feel like that. I’ve learned to make healthy changes that still give me the freedom to enjoy my favourites foods like diet cola chicken. I have also been introduced to so many new vegetables that I love.

“I actually eat more now than I ever did – I’ve just learned how to make sure it’s part of a balanced, nutritious plan.

“The support I’ve had from my Consultant Debra and the other members in the group has been invaluable. Debra helped me to identify where I was slipping up and find ways to overcome them – and listening to others sharing their journeys, and what tips and strategies they’ve picked up along the way has helped me to stay on track when I need it most.”

Makhosana, 49, who joined at 17st  6.5lbs and now weighs 11st 8.5lbs, says she couldn’t have done it without the group – and Louisa.

She says: “I’d tried to lose weight alone so many times in the past but having Louisa by my side this time made the biggest difference. We kept each other motivated and would plan our weeks together so we could help each other stay on track – it made the whole thing more fun. The other members in the group have become our friends now too. I love being part of a group of people where I feel understood and never judged - and they inspire me so much.”

Losing weight encouraged the pair to build more activity into their routines. Makhosana says: “Before joining Slimming World, I found the idea of exercising too overwhelming. Debra made me realise I could start at my own pace and she encouraged me to set small goals, so it felt more achievable – and that really helped. Now I love running and spin classes as well as going on more active holidays with my family. Louisa and I went on safari in Africa last summer and absolutely loved it – we wouldn’t have had the confidence to do it before and now we can’t sit still for too long!”

Debra Harris, who runs the Werrington Slimming World group, says: “I couldn’t be prouder of Louisa and Makhosana. They’re living proof that with the right support and the right tools real change is possible. They really threw themselves into making lasting changes and keeping each other focused and motivated – and watching them find their sparkle again and achieve their goals has truly been inspiring.

“If you’re ready to start your own weight loss journey, join us at Werrington Slimming World group or call me on 07880 567310 for more information.”