Losing weight means Kellie can now play with her five children.

Busy mum Kellie Dixon, 35 from Dorchester, had struggled with her weight all her life. Having five children and constantly making excuses not to go out with them for a walk or to the park to play as she was struggling to keep up with them Kellie knew something had to change.

Kelly said: "I joined Slimming World because I couldn't carry on living the way I was. My knees were in constant pain resulting in my partner pushing me up the stairs every day because I couldn't climb them on my own and the embarrassment was so upsetting for me and my children.

"I had to change but didn't know how to. An old friend said he was going to Lisa's Slimming World group and said I should go along with him, so that week I did just that".

Walking through the doors in August 2019, weighing more than 16 stone, Kellie was scared, she hated being in big groups, but Kellie said: "I felt at ease. There were so many people there but no one ever judged me. They made me feel so welcome.

"Nothing has changed, group is always my go to if I feel myself struggling. Staying to group really helps me as it keeps me on track. I focus more knowing that I have wonderful people to support me. My consultant is always there if I need some advice too so I know I can message Lisa and she will help me anytime.".

Losing 4.5lb in her first week Kellie was thrilled and couldn't believe she could still enjoy all her favourite foods such as spaghetti bolognaise, chocolate and crisps.

Kellie said: "I love cooking and experimenting with different recipes. Food optimising is knowing I can still have my favourite foods but in a healthier way and my kids love helping more now as I enjoy cooking more".

Now Kellie has lost four stone 8lbs and loving life.

She said: "I never really thought about how much my weight affected my family and how much it was stopping me from doing things with them.

"Since losing my weight I am planning my wedding to my partner, Tom, of 10 years, taking my kids out to the park, going for walks, and even run around after them. They love it and so do I.

"My health has improved so much. Although my knees still hurt a little, I have noticed the difference. I no longer need help up the stairs, I can climb them myself. I also don't get out of breath anymore either unless I run - yes, on purpose!

"I can walk so much further now, and the kids love the fact that mummy can now do more with them. My general health has improved so much that my BMI has reduced, and I feel more healthier than I have done in the past 10 years.

"Joining slimming world was the best decision I have ever made, and I'm pleased to say I'm now nearly five stone lighter and can do so much more."

A report by Public Health England found that 'people with Covid-19 who are living with overweight or obesity, compared with those of a healthy weight, are at an increased risk of serious Covid-19 complications and death'.

For more information, visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk to find your nearest group. If you're interested in joining Lisa's group call 07962075882 or email [email protected]