Clare Dowell, 43, from Newcastle, has lost 17 stone after undergoing NHS gastric bypass surgery in 2019. Once weighing 30 stone and wearing a size 32, she now weighs 13st 2lbs and wears a size 14.
Struggles from childhood
Clare's weight issues began after her father died when she was four. She turned to comfort eating, consuming up to 10 packets of crisps a day. She faced bullying at school, including from a teacher, and described herself as 'the biggest kid' who loved to run and play football.
Her health deteriorated in adulthood, with a diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes, eczema, and psoriasis in 2010. Everyday tasks became difficult, and she struggled with breathing. She recalled feeling like 'Donkey Kong trying to sit in a Mario Kart chair' on theme park rides and taking up two seats on buses, which drew sniggers.
Path to surgery
In 2016, Clare was offered an NHS gastric bypass and spent three years on the waiting list. During that time, she followed a dietitian's plan and did CrossFit, losing two stone before the operation. Since 2019, she has lost a total of 17 stone.
Her diet has changed dramatically. She now eats simple meals like toast and coffee for breakfast, fruit and cocktail sausages for lunch, and grilled chicken or salmon for dinner. She only indulges in crisps once a week.
Life after weight loss
Clare admits the adjustment was tough initially, with mental health struggles as she got used to smaller portions. But now she says 'life is amazing'. She can fit on theme park rides, run for the bus, and enjoys clothes shopping, trying on smaller sizes for the first time.
She has become so unrecognisable that old friends have walked past her. Clare hopes her story encourages people not to judge those struggling with weight, saying 'You shouldn't judge. If someone was on drugs, an alcoholic or anorexic, you'd get them help but if someone is overeating they just say 'don't eat and exercise more'.'
