“Before starting my Wesley LifeShape program I had 3 major surgeries over an 8 month period. Afterwards my doctor said it was vital that I took some pressure off my stomach to aid in my recovery.”

Donna tried to lose weight multiple times over the years, but nothing had resulted in long term weight stability. After hearing about and researching the Wesley LifeShape Program, she made the call - and after her initial assessment, joined on the spot and paid for her program up front.

“Once I made the decision, there was no looking back. I called my husband right after my appointment to tell him that I had committed to a 12 month program. I knew I was ready to make the change, so he supported me from that moment.”

Right before the commencement of her program, Donna’s husband relocated for work. Remaining in Brisbane for her daughter to finish high school, Donna saw this as an opportunity to turn her focus completely onto her health and eating habits.

“We have moved around quite a bit in the past and each time I had gained weight.  I didn’t want that to happen this time. I wanted to take control before I joined my husband in WA.”

Donna’s children here in Brisbane were incredibly supportive of her weight loss efforts.

“My son and daughters were wonderful and supported my commitment to the program structure – I took it very seriously. I never missed an appointment and my family and friends always knew I was at my weekly appointment on a Tuesday morning. Convenience was also a factor that kept me on track - I really liked having the clinic right down the road from me.”

As well as improving her health, feeling confident was a major motivator in her lifestyle change.

“It was very important to me that I never felt being belittled or patronised at my appointments. My dietitian Kurt was both encouraging and supportive, and could always pick up my headspace without overstepping.”

“These days, there are so many situations I feel more comfortable in. I don’t get on a plane and feel self-conscious. You wouldn’t think of it, but the thought of never having to ask for an extended seatbelt again is an incredible motivator.”

Although she is still overcoming her health obstacles, Donna is seeing improvements every day. In the past, setbacks turned into excuses. Now, she is always looking for ways to go the extra mile when it comes to her health and fitness goals – and importantly, it feels natural and healthy.

“Now, I am doing everything that I want to do. For medical reasons, I can’t do resistance training - but I can do cardio. Instead of turning to food when things get tough, I think about going for a run. It’s such a change, but 10,000 steps is now a lazy day for me!”

Although Donna’s weight loss journey had its ups and downs, she has persevered knowing that she was truly making the change for herself and her family.

“Anytime I felt like I was struggling, I would get out my LifeShape Manual and remember how far I have come. I’d look back at my focus during the first few weeks of the program and be amazed at what I had achieved.  Losing the weight didn’t automatically fix every problem in my life, but it helped me deal with and handle things in a more positive way.”

Donna August 2014 

Now, Donna isn’t looking back. She has found a healthy, balanced approach to eating that doesn’t involve deprivation or yo-yo dieting.

“The program has changed my whole life health-wise. As the weeks go by you really do realise it is not a diet, it is a lifestyle. I still go out to a restaurant but I am not afraid to ask what is in a meal, or ask them to change it to suit my needs.”

After 12 months and an astonishing 61kgs^ later, Donna is embracing all life has to offer.  With her new found health and confidence, she is ready to enjoy life again with some adventurous travel plans coming up.

“I feel so much braver now– I am trying things I have never tried. My husband and I are about to go on a cruise, and this will be the first time in years I will actually get into a pair of togs. I’m doing all the activities – snorkelling, slides – the lot!”

Donna’s dedication has produced some amazing results, and she is the first to admit how much better she feels.

“I really wanted to help myself, and that is exactly what I did. My goal now is to keep looking ahead and maintaining my healthier lifestyle while enjoying the positive changes I have made.”

*Your results may vary. To find out what you can achieve on your LifeShape Program book a no obligation initial assessment with one of our Dietitians, call 1800 567 348. Alternatively you can register your interest online.