A man has lost over five stones thanks to an NHS-endorsed weight loss plan.
Peter Little, 63, of Carlisle, dropped four clothes sizes and reduced his waist measurements from 52in to 40in after signing up to the NHS Healthier You National Diabetes Prevention Programme.
Peter, who suffered from high blood pressure and high cholesterol, started on the online WW plan at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic after tipping the scales at 21st and nine-and-a-half pounds.
“I struggled to walk up the stairs and would put off jobs needing multiple visits to higher floors in the house,” said Peter.
“I would find myself taking a breather between floors especially if it involved the attic.
“I had sleep apnoea, which is managed using a CPAP machine to keep airways clear during sleep.
“The pressure from this machine is used to keep airways clear and was sitting at a pressure of 18. I was suffering about 45 episodes a night.”
After visiting his GP for an annual check-up, Peter decided it was time to take on the challenge as we were all heading into the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I had great support at home with my wife Susan, and the family, who are always keen to hear how I had got on each week, which helped.”
Peter lost seven pounds during his first week on the NDPP plan but then lockdown happened, and the workshops were moved online.
Peter said he found it challenging to begin with but with the support from his coach he carried on.
“It was clear that you had to put in work on the journey yourself as well as change habits,” said Peter who now weighs 16 stones.
“Without this amazing scheme, I wouldn’t be the much smaller and healthier man I am today.
“I have two grandchildren on the way now due in July and October and feel I can look forward to spending time with them both, where previously I would have struggled to even get involved.”
