Thornton RAF veteran sheds five stones with Slimming World and takes on biggest challenge yet as a consultant

AN RAF veteran who lost more than five stone is on a mission to show others that it’s never too late to believe in yourself.

For Thornton’s newest Slimming World Consultant, Amy Atkin, becoming a Slimming World Consultant is about much more than helping people lose weight.

It represents just how far she has come herself.

A proud RAF veteran, Amy knows all about determination, resilience, teamwork and the importance of supporting the people around you.

But there was one thing she never imagined she would have the confidence to do – stand in front of a room full of people and speak about her own experiences.

Then Slimming World came along.

Amy has been on her own Slimming World journey for just short of two years and has lost an incredible 5 stone 4½lbs.

And while her weight loss has been amazing, Amy says the biggest transformation has been the change in her confidence and belief in herself.

“I’m still on my journey towards my target,” says Amy. “So I’m not someone who has reached the end and forgotten what it feels like to be working towards a goal. I’m right there with you.

“My journey hasn’t always been easy. I’ve had my ups and downs, good weeks and difficult weeks, and I completely understand that sometimes life gets in the way.

“And that’s okay. What matters is that we don’t give up. We pick ourselves back up, draw a line under it and keep moving forward.”

One of the things Amy loves about Slimming World is that losing weight doesn’t mean giving up the foods you enjoy.

With Slimming World’s healthy eating plan, Food Optimising, members can enjoy delicious, satisfying and healthy meals made with everyday ingredients. Food Optimising has helped millions of people lose weight without feeling deprived.

Amy also knows that walking into a slimming group for the first time can feel daunting.

“There is no judgement,” she says. “Just support, encouragement and a fresh start whenever you need one.”

“Being part of the Slimming World community means members can share their experiences, celebrate their successes, support each other through difficult weeks and be supported themselves.

“For me, the support is so important. I truly believe that if we work together, support each other and keep believing in ourselves, we can all achieve things we once thought were impossible.”

Amy’s story is part of a wider trend, with four Slimming World Consultants in the area having recently taken the step of purchasing their own Slimming World franchise in just three months.

For many Consultants, the opportunity begins with their own experience as a member. For Amy, it was a natural next step.

“It has helped me find a confidence in myself that I never knew I had. For a long time, I never had the confidence to stand up in front of people and speak.

“Becoming a Consultant is a huge step outside my comfort zone, but I want to keep pushing myself, keep growing and continue discovering the confidence I’ve gained through my own journey.”