“I’d always imagined I’d tackle the ageing process positively and treat growing old as the privilege it is,” explained former teacher Caroline Darch.
“But that was before I’d experienced the physical and mental mayhem that menopause can bring.”
Caroline’s story resonates with many who have faced the challenging transition of menopause. From disrupted sleep to mood swings and the infamous “brain fog,” Caroline found herself grappling with a whirlwind of symptoms that left her feeling out of sync with herself.
“Everything was changing but nothing seemed right, least of all me,” she reflects. “It felt as if I was an alien in my own body.”
Amidst the turmoil, Caroline found solace in familiar comforts, albeit unhealthy ones. Indulging in cakes, pastries, and savoury delights became a coping mechanism, leading to weight gain and deteriorating health. A wake-up call from her doctor warning of serious health risks propelled Caroline to seek change.
Enter Slimming World, a beacon of hope in Caroline’s journey to reclaim her health and happiness. With the support of her local group and its welcoming community, Caroline embarked on a transformational path toward wellness.
“I’d forgotten how friendly, fun, and welcoming Slimming World groups are,” she enthuses. “I knew I was going to be okay because I wasn’t going to be alone.”
Caroline’s journey with Slimming World was not just about shedding pounds; it was about reclaiming control of her life and embracing a positive lifestyle change. Through Slimming World’s Food Optimising and Body Magic, she found renewed strength, both physically and mentally.
“As the weight has come off, my old self has returned,” Caroline shares, her voice filled with pride. “I feel so much stronger inside and out, firmly back in control of myself and my life.”
Now, as a Slimming World target member and as a new consultant, Caroline looks forward to paying it forward by supporting others on their own weight loss journeys.
“Like the Welsh football squad, we are stronger together,” Caroline declares. “By supporting one another, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.”
Joanne Creese, who successfully runs Slimming World’s Ystrad Mynach group supports Caroline as a Consultant and Team Developer and explains that consultants are chosen for their understanding and empathy with those who struggle with their weight.
She said: “With Caroline’s instinctively warm, caring and kind nature and her sense of fun. I just know that she’ll be a wonderful support for every member in Cascade. Ca will be cheerleading them all the way to weight loss success.”
• Caroline’s first group will be held on Tuesday April 30 at 4pm and again at 5.30pm at Cascade Community Centre, Llwyn Onn, Penpedairheol, Hengoed CF82 8BB.
• For more information or to join Caroline’s group, either pop along to one of the sessions or give her a call on 07534 815689.
For more information visit Obv.sr/Caroline; www.slimmingworld.co.uk or call 0344 897 8000. You can also follow Slimming World on Twitter at www.twitter.com/slimmingworld or become a Slimming World fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/slimmingworld.
Find your nearest Caerphilly County Borough Slimming World group.
Interested in becoming a Slimming World Consultant?
Call Joanne on 07530 353262 for more information