My Journey
When you’re close to giving up on yourself, it’s easy to believe things will never change. I know, because by June 2021, I weighed nearly 25 stone and was buried beneath diagnoses: Type 2 diabetes, asthma, sleep apnoea, binge eating disorder, and relentless sciatica. My world had shrunk so much that even walking to work felt insurmountable. Depression and anxiety had crept in, and I genuinely thought I’d end up bedbound for life. But this isn’t just a story about struggle – this is a story about hope, resilience, remission and the power of starting again. If you’re searching for proof that change is possible, you’re in the right place.
My Lowest Point
After being diagnosed with multiple chronic illnesses and reaching my heaviest, I was desperate. Even after a gastric bypass, which brought brief relief, I regained the weight and found myself right back at square one. At times, I truly believed my life was over. The pain was constant and mentally overwhelming.
The Turning Point
By November 2024, something inside me shifted. I recognised I was living half a life – simply surviving, not thriving. Desperate for a way out, I started making changes anyone could do: drinking more water, building up my daily steps, and eating a bit more protein. Around this time, I began ADHD medication, which quietened my mind and helped me focus on making healthy choices for the first time in years.
The Climb Back Up
Month by month, my walking increased from 5,000 steps daily to often hitting 15,000 or even 18,000. I faced setbacks, including eating too little and fearing food. To challenge myself, I committed to eating an extra 100 calories a day for ten days – a small act that eventually broke the starvation cycle and kept me healthy on my journey.
One step at a time, I saw my conditions improve. By sticking with those tiny changes and refusing to give in, I started to believe in myself again.
Results: Remission & Real Life
Today, I’m proud to say I have lost 174lbs, bringing me down to 12 stone 4lbs. My Type 2 diabetes, asthma, sleep apnoea, and binge eating disorder are all in remission, and my sciatica has been reversed. I’ve rediscovered joy and freedom by going on holidays, hiking with friends, and feeling optimistic about my future, which I once thought impossible.
Why I’m Sharing This
The single most important thing I’ve learnt is: never give up on yourself. Everyone’s struggle is different, but hope is universal. If you’re battling with your weight, chronic illness, or binge eating, this is proof positive that you are not alone and that it is possible to come back stronger.
You don’t need to do it perfectly. You just need to start. If you need support or want to know more about my journey, reach out – I’m here to show you what a second chance can look like.
Closing Thoughts
This is the beginning of my story, but my real hope is to help others find their turning point. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed or just plain worn out, remember: real change begins with a single step and there are brighter days ahead.
If I can do it, so can you.
Dan
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