Twin sisters from Lanarkshire who lost three stone between them are now helping others achieve their weight loss dreams.
Janis Gardiner and Valerie Bowie only started their transformation six months ago after admitting being stuck in a rut during lockdown.
The heart breaking loss of their dad left them turning to food for comfort - but when they realised how much weight they'd gained from looking at a photo of themselves, they decided it was time to make a change.
The twins then turned to their local Slimming World group and managed to lose 1.5st each, having received "lots of help and support, without judgement" along the way.
Having trained as consultants with the weight loss organisation, they've now bravely started a brand new career and are ready to inspire many more locals to reach their goals.
Members at the Blantyre group in St Andrews Church are getting ready to welcome Janis as their new consultant when she takes over the group on Saturday, April 23.
And Valerie is opening her own group in Bellshill at Orbiston Bowling Club on Thursday, April 21.
Janis told Lanarkshire Live : “Obesity is becoming such a huge issue across the UK. When I first joined Slimming World as a member, I never dreamed I would end up helping other people to lose weight - now I just can’t wait to get started.
"After losing 1.5st and completing my training, it’s a privilege for me to be able to pass on the experience, insight and understanding that helped me, so that I can give my members the support they need to get to target.
"As someone who has lost weight myself I know the challenges people can face, which is why, along with the group, I will be there to support every one of my members all the way to their chosen target weight."
Valerie added: “Like a lot of slimmers, I had tried to lose weight so many times before by following numerous diets but they were never sustainable because I’d always get tired of restricting what I ate.
"I thought I was destined to struggle with my weight for the rest of my life, but when I came to Slimming World it was different. I never felt like I was on a diet.
"The eating plan encourages you to eat lots of tasty, filling foods like pasta, rice, potatoes and lean meat and fish, you are never hungry and no foods are banned so there’s no deprivation.
"I couldn’t believe I’d found a way to lose weight without starving myself.
“Slimming World isn’t just about changing what you eat. Becoming more active is important too."
Valerie added: "As a consultant, it’s my role to create that warm, supportive atmosphere to get people sharing their ideas and experiences to help others - it’s going to be great fun!”
Sixty five per cent of the Lanarkshire population is now overweight or obese, and Janis and Valerie say their new role has never been more important.
Janis’ Slimming World group will be held at St Andrews Church in Blantyre every Saturday at 9am from April 23 and Valerie’s group will be held in Orbiston Bowling Club in Bellshill every Thursday at 7pm from April 21.
For more information or to join contact Janis on 07908 734 942 for Blantyre and Valerie on 07908 735 207 for Bellshill or just come along.
Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
And did you know Lanarkshire Live is on Facebook? Head on over and give us a like and share!
