Award-winner Jacqui loses weight - but gains a new lease of life

Jan 19 2009 by Chris Robinson, The Journal

SUPER slimmer Jacqui Brown tipped the scales at a hefty 28 stone and needed a seatbelt extension on plane flights.

The 34-year-old lived on ready meals, enjoyed boozy nights out with pals and secretly comfort-ate at night.

But after shedding more than 16 stone over the past 18 months her determination has landed her a new life, and a new wardrobe.

She said: “When I worked in London my job was very sociable, I was drinking five to six pints a night then having a pizza after.

“It was quite a sociable company but quite an indulgent lifestyle. I was comfort eating and just wasn’t realising what I was eating and what I was drinking.

“It got to the point that I had to do something so I tried the diet to see if it was something for me.”

The business consultant, of Forest Hall, North Tyneside, now has even more to celebrate after being named runner-up in the Cambridge Diet Slimmer of the Year competition.

“I just can’t believe I was that person. People don’t recognise me in the street if they haven’t seen me for a while.”

Jacqui’s battle with the bulge saw her diagnosed with high blood pressure and she even considered surgery, but was told that due to her large size any operation would be dangerous.

Travelling abroad with work sometimes up to twice a week she even considered borrowing a seatbelt extension so she didn’t have to embarrass herself by asking for one each time she flew.

The specialist diet, for which she consulted her GP, meant replacing tempting treats with slimming products bought in bulk from counsellor Paula Ball, who offered one-to-one support from her Ashington home.

But last year Jacqui, who now weighs a healthy 12 stone, did allow herself one treat, when she was bridesmaid at sister Leanne’s wedding.

Now a svelte size 12 she has replaced her old size 32 clothes with figure-hugging designs.

She added: My main aim is to keep it off. I enjoy walking a lot, I now normally do four miles and usually longer at weekends.

“It can be done if you have the willpower to do it and have the support of the people around you to talk to.”