Slimming World members from Bedwas and Cascade have raised almost £7,000 for Cancer Research UK by donating clothes that are now too big for them.
Francine Gauci runs the group in Bedwas, as well as a new one on Mondays in Caerphilly starting on May 27.
She said: “It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the life-changing success of my members as well as demonstrate the depth of generosity and care that lies at the very heart of Slimming World.
“The Bedwas and Cascade Slimming World members have filled 227 bags of clothes with an estimated value of £6,810 for Cancer Research UK. I couldn’t be more proud and thankful to my members for getting on board with this amazing campaign.”
“Cancer touches so many of us in one form or another and this has been a great opportunity for members to share the difference our Food Optimising plan has made to them and their family.
“Losing weight need not mean you should ever go hungry. The power of group is based on sustainable behaviour change where we help slimmers to achieve their weight-loss goals from week one.
“Through weekly support they learn how to make changes to their eating habits and quickly start to include plenty of vegetables, fruit and high fibre foods into their regular diet.
“The support we give in group helps members to commit to their goals, and develop the control and confidence to overcome challenges. Food Optimising is the most generous, liberating, and long-lasting way to lose weight. It has made such a difference to my members health and happiness.”
Two members of Bedwas have recently been crowned the winners of Slimming World’s Two Together competition.
Wendy Carter, aged 61,and Wendy Jones, 71 are known to the group as Wendy and Wendy.
The two ladies have lost more than 6st (38kg) between them.
Wendy Jones said: “I was so unhappy with my weight and how it affected my mobility that one evening I struggled so much to walk to the car park on a night out that I decided to join Slimming World. I have arthritis in my knees, but now after losing the weight I very rarely use my walking stick.”
Wendy Carter added: “My next door neighbour invited me to join Francine’s Bedwas group with her as I was so nervous to go along on my own.
“As soon as I walked through the door, I felt the warm welcome and I just knew I was joining a supportive and successful group. Now I’ve lost the weight, my cholesterol is normal, I am diabetes-free, and no longer suffer with pain in my feet and hips. My bowel issues have resolved and I am more active and feel so much more confident in myself.”
Francine said: “I couldn’t be more proud of both ladies. They are such an important part of our Slimming World family and inspire us all with their energy and enthusiasm.”
• Francine would love to welcome more members to join a new Monday morning Caerphilly group and the Bedwas groups. If you’re feeling inspired come and join them at Bethel Baptist Church Hall, Nantgarw Road, Caerphilly, every Monday at 9.30am from May 27, or Bedwas Workmen’s Hall every Wednesday at 7.30am; 9am; 10:30am; and 5.30pm.
New members can simply pop along or if they’d like more information they can call 07834 408172.
Find your nearest Caerphilly County Borough Slimming World group.
Interested in becoming a Slimming World Consultant?
Call Joanne on 07530 353262 for more information