When Miguel from Stowmarket joined the 12-week adult weight management programme with Feel Good Suffolk, he was ready for change, though he didn’t realise just how transformative the journey would become. A lifelong struggle with weight had gradually intensified over the years, particularly after becoming a husband and father, while balancing the pressures of work and family life.
It wasn’t until he stepped on the scales during the referral process that the reality struck. That moment became the turning point that set everything else in motion.
Miguel recalls:
“I used to watch The Simpsons when I was much younger and there’s this episode where Homer finds out that if he weighs a certain amount then he can work from home and claim disability.
I remember taking my weight when referring myself to the programme and I was that weight! I had no idea; I weighed much more than I even realised! I was shocked… I never thought I would be that big, especially given my height.
It was a huge wake-up call and a warning, as I knew I could not continue at this weight without experiencing some serious health concerns!”
Miguel first heard about the programme through his GP. Determined to take action, he signed up through the website and attended the weekly online sessions. For someone juggling full-time work and two young children with additional needs, the virtual format made participation possible.
Miguel explained: “If it wasn’t online, I wouldn’t have been able to join and I wouldn’t have completed the programme,”
Although initially unsure what to expect, he quickly found the group environment rewarding, engaging, and surprisingly personal. The combination of expert guidance, practical resources, and connection with others facing similar struggles motivated him from the very first week.
At the start, even walking felt difficult. However, Miguel understood that any movement would support his long-term goals. He began with short walks around his local neighbourhood before progressing to regular gym sessions as his confidence grew.
Alongside physical activity, Miguel transformed his relationship with food:
- Tracking Intake: He began tracking his food and cutting back on sugar.
- Reading Labels: He learned to properly understand food labels and identify “empty calories”.
- Sustainable Mindset: Instead of quick fixes, he adopted a mindset geared toward long-term change.
- Holistic Health: The sessions on sleep and stress helped him recognise how lifestyle factors beyond food influence energy levels and habits.
Despite the online format, the group was a significant source of motivation. Listening to others manage weight-related medical conditions was eye-opening and reminded Miguel of the risks he could avoid by acting now to change his lifestyle. Supported by his advisor Sophie’s friendly approach, Miguel stayed accountable even on challenging weeks.
During the 12 weeks, Miguel lost approximately 14.5 kg (over two stone). He has continued his new habits, such as intermittent fasting and mindful eating, viewing them as a permanent lifestyle rather than temporary measures. Even when facing plateaus, he remained patient, knowing that sustainable weight loss is “a marathon, not a sprint”.
The biggest motivation behind Miguel’s progress was his family. As a father of two children with additional needs, he felt a strong responsibility to stay healthy and present for them as long as possible. The programme helped him regain ownership of his health, confidence, and future.
Miguel’s message for anyone considering joining:
“Start now. Tomorrow doesn’t ever come. Don’t get upset when you’re not losing or when you’ve gained, as it’s a long-term goal and even if you fall, you can come back…You have to just keep going”.
If you are interested in joining the Feel Good Suffolk Healthy Weight programme, you can complete a self- referral form today at feelgoodsuffolk.co.uk/make-a-referral/
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