Louise McQuarrie joined her local Slimming World group in East Kilbride in June 2021, a decision that has dramatically changed her life. At the time, she was coping with the loss of her mother, her sister's cancer treatment, and the end of her engagement. She had also been told she needed a partial knee replacement and would have to lose weight before surgery could be considered.
From four stone to over six stone lost
Encouraged by a friend, Louise contacted Slimming World and initially set a goal of losing four stone. As her health and confidence improved, she continued and went on to lose 6st 7½lbs.
After losing six stone, Louise was placed on the waiting list for knee surgery. However, following emergency spinal surgery in 2023, she had to postpone the operation. Since losing weight, Louise says her knee pain has reduced so dramatically that she has never returned to arrange the surgery.
Transformation beyond weight loss
For Louise, the transformation has gone far beyond weight loss. Once someone who avoided photographs and hid beneath oversized clothes, she now enjoys shopping, confidently wears shorts, and has discovered a love of the gym, weight training, and running.
She credits much of her success to the friendship, encouragement, and lack of judgement she found at Slimming World. Even after spinal surgery forced her to take several months away from group and she regained 21lbs, Louise returned to a warm welcome and went on to lose the weight again – and more.
Group support and recognition
Louise attends the Calderwood Saturday group at Moncrieff Parish Church, which meets at 8.30am and 10am and is now run by consultant Anna McPhee. Anna said: “I’m so proud of Louise and everything she has achieved. She is an incredible inspiration to me and to her fellow members every week.”
Anna also runs the St Leonard’s group at The Bonnie Prince Charlie every Wednesday at 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 7.30pm, which was recently named Slimming World’s East Kilbride Group of the Month for July. Anna added: “It’s a wonderful achievement and a reflection of the support and encouragement our members give each other. Whether you’re joining for the first time, returning after a break or using weight loss medication as part of your journey, you’ll always receive a warm welcome.”
New members joining either of Anna’s groups before the end of September can receive free Slimming World membership.
