A Cheshire East resident has shared her inspiring experience of reclaiming her health and wellbeing after joining One You Cheshire East’s Re-Shape Programme, proving it’s never too late to invest in yourself.
Joanne Hambley had recently retired at the age of 60, a milestone she had long looked forward to. However, instead of feeling excited about the freedom retirement should bring, Joanne found herself feeling unable to fully enjoy this new chapter of her life.
“I was at a point in my life when I was fortunate to retire at the age of 60 years, unfortunately I felt far from fit enough to do the things I wanted to do in my retirement.” Joanne explains.
Reluctantly, Joanne stepped onto the scales, a moment that proved to be a turning point.
“I was shocked to see my heaviest weight I had ever been and a BMI of over 30. My blood pressure was high, also my cholesterol was dangerously high.”
Determined to make a change, Joanne decided to enrol onto the Re-Shape programme, delivered by a qualified nutritionist.
“I started the course which was informative and I gained a wealth of information given by professional staff without any judgement.”
Alongside the programme, Joanne also took her first steps to becoming active after being made aware of the Active Lives programme, which is a free, 12-week physical activity programme. Joanne now attends the gym and a variety of group exercise classes on a regular basis.
“I joined the gym and attended various classes until I found the one that suited me best. All the classes were brilliant, fun and started my weight loss journey.”
With consistency, support, and renewed confidence, Joanne began to see significant changes, not just on the scales, but in her overall health and wellbeing.
“I have dropped a dress size, lost 1 1/2 stone, reduced my BMI, blood pressure and cholesterol. I generally feeling fitter and healthier.”
Now feeling healthier, stronger and more confident, Joanne is enjoying her retirement. “Thank you to the dedicated team.”
The Re-Shape programme supports adults across Cheshire East to build healthier habits around nutrition, become active and improve lifestyle, in a welcoming and non-judgemental environment. Joanne’s story is just one of many examples of how small, supported changes can lead to life‑changing results.
If you’re inspired by Joanne’s story and want support to feel fitter, healthier and more confident, One You Cheshire East offers a range of free health and lifestyle services to support adults across Cheshire East. From weight management and physical activity programmes to help with nutrition, wellbeing and healthy habits, our friendly, non‑judgemental team is here to help you take that first step. Visit: www.oneyoucheshireeast.org to find out more.