A pair of West Suffolk Hospital nurses have dropped over six stone between them after starting their weight loss journey.
Peter Mason, a 59-year-old registered nurse, and Amanda, a mum-of-three and sister in A&E, both joined the Slimming World programme at the Southgate Community Centre in Bury St Edmunds in an effort to kickstart a healthier lifestyle.
Peter, who joined after suffering high blood pressure, a lack of energy and low self esteem, said: "I felt like such a failure.
"I was nervous at the idea of joining group, but was surprised by the warm and positive atmosphere that welcomed me.
"I love my food, and all the food I can enjoy freely on the plan. I never feel hungry and I am eating more than I have ever done before," he added.
Peter said he has made easy swaps, like sugar to sweetener and skimmed milk instead of whole, and the changes have had a positive impact on his mental health.
He has lost an impressive three stone on the plan.
"I can now run up and down the stairs without getting getting short of breath and is now walking to work, rather than taking the car," he said.
Amanda, a mum-of-three a sister in A&E at West Suffolk Hospital joined the same group as Peter and has lost 3 stone 10lbs.
She said "I knew when I turned 40 that it was time to change. My back hurt and my knees were sore, I was so unhappy and tired.
"I was scared, and after I lost my mum in earlier years when she was 43 from cardiac problems I knew I needed to change.
"I was worried that if I didn't make some changes I could also be at the risk of a premature death too."
She was inspired to join the group after a gentle nudge and support from her husband.
"My job in A & E is physically easier because I feel so much healthier," she said.
"It is the best feeling in the work when my colleagues compliment me on my weight loss and I am so proud. I feel like a role model for the nurses and the NHS."
Amanda is training to take on the three peaks challenge and has recently bought a kayak.
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