AN INSPIRATIONAL slimmer from Coventry who lost 7st 4lbs in less than 18 months is set to take to the streets of London for the capital’s annual marathon.
Hayley McKenna joined Tile Hill Slimming World in 2015 after weighing her heaviest when aged 30 and wearing size 26 clothes.
The 31-year-old was told by her doctor she was at risk of Type 2 diabetes and heart disease due to her weight.
However she’s quickly turned her life around and will now be one of the 40,000 people to run in this year’s London Marathon on Sunday, April 23.
She will be representing Slimming World during the run and is part of their national team of 11 slimmers from across the UK who between them have lost more than 73st.
The team are running to raise money for Cancer Research UK – and are aiming to increase awareness of how keeping a healthy weight reduces the risk of developing some types of cancer.
Hayley’s inspiration to lose weight came when her daughter told her a school friend had commented on her size.
This prompted the keen runner to swap takeaways and pizzas for vegetables and exercise – and she’s already completed several long distance runs.
Hayley said: “I can’t believe how far I’ve come in the past few years and all the incredible changes I’ve made.
“I’m happier and healthier.
“By making all these changes I’ve reduced my chances of developing a range of health problems including some types of cancer.
“I’ve really found a love for running and I can’t believe I’m now going to be running the big one this year – the London Marathon.
“I can’t wait for the atmosphere on race day and to cross that finish line.
“Achieving this lifelong ambition would never have been possible before losing weight.
“I‘m excited to give something back and raise money for Cancer Research UK.”
Prior to losing weight, the Coventry resident felt constantly tired, her self-esteem was at rock bottom and she struggled to climb the two flights of stairs at work.
She couldn’t enjoy simple pleasures with her children – like playing with them or taking them to the park.
However Hayley has now completed 5k, 10k and 10 mile races and a half marathon.
Her determined attitude has seen her drop from 19st 11lbs to 12st 7lbs in less than 18 months.
She said: “I’ve never eaten so well in my life.
“Losing weight without going hungry, while still enjoying all my favourite meals, just by making changes to the way I prepared and cooked them, has been amazing.”
Slimming World Consultant Ann Munnelly, who runs Hayley’s weekly group sessions, said her weight loss is an inspiration to all members.
She added: “When she first came through the door she just wanted to lose weight – she had no idea what a huge transformation she was about to begin and certainly no idea that she would one day be running the London Marathon, it’s incredible.
“She proves that with a little determination and the right kind of support, anyone’s weight loss and activity dreams can be achieved.”
