My day would consist of eating fast food 3 times a day, every day, with snacks in-between. I felt depressed and stuck in a hole with no way out. The only thing that would make me feel ‘somewhat better’ was ordering myself the biggest meal I could from a local takeaway and eating myself out of the pain I was going through inside.

I used to suffer from severe pains in my chest and even my joints and back were in constant agony, so I rarely left the house. My family, friends and doctor were all concerned, and my doctor said to me, “Grace, if you don’t make a change then you will die from the consequences of being overweight!

But for such a long time I was in denial and kept putting the warning signs to the back of my mind, hoping that with another bite of my “greasy doner kebab and cheesy chips” that I’d forget how much pain I was in emotionally and physically.

One day I woke up and it hit me like a ton of bricks. What was I doing with my life, let alone my health? I had spent so long feeding my emotions that I was digging myself a grave with my own knife and fork. I said to myself, ‘Grace, it’s now or never, this is enough. Stop feeling sorry for yourself and for once in your life, look after YOU and be the person you’ve always wanted to be!’

The first day of meeting my Consultant was the most nerve-racking thing in the world. I remember tipping the scales at a whopping 23st 10lbs and feeling so much hate, anger and upset towards myself.

Following the plan was so easy, it couldn’t have been any more straightforward. Before I knew it my first weigh in came along 1 week later. I stepped on the scales and I couldn’t believe it, I had lost an incredible 19lbs! I was ecstatic.

As each week passed, the days went by quicker. I continued to lose weight each week and every time I would notice differences. Whether it was my clothing feeling loose or the pain in my joints getting a lot more bearable, it was so motivating to see constant changes.

Having a focus with CWP has kept me feeling alive, reminded me how precious life is and how every single day should count towards my future. I love looking in the mirror now and shopping for new clothes, whereas before it was embarrassing and more of a chore.

The pains I used to feel in my joints, back and chest have completely disappeared. I have never felt so alive, energised, confident and empowered.

Early on I started recording my journey on Instagram and the encouragement from followers boosted my confidence, but I had no idea that I would be inspiring so many other people with my weight-loss journey. I now have over 7000 followers on “graciemariesjourney” and I’m really proud that I have just been accredited as a CWP Consultant.

Once you find your ‘why’ inside of you, keep that with you every step of the way and it will help you reach your goals. Dream, Believe, Achieve!