County Durham breast cancer survivor's diagnosis prompted life-changing decision and sparked new career
A breast cancer survivor has revealed how her diagnosis prompted a life-changing decision and sparked a new career.
Andrea Graham knew she had a "fighting chance" of beating the disease and was lucky enough to receive surgery and chemotherapy. But during her recovery she could barely bring herself to look in the mirror.
The 54-year-old, from Chester le Street, said: "I knew I had a fighting chance of beating this terrible illness, but I was not in a good place mentally or physically. I had gained so much weight due to my treatment and steroids and hated the image staring back at me, if I dared to brave looking in the mirror."
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Feeling embarrassed of weighing 14st 6lbs and "desperate" to get herself back to full health, Andrea made a vow to herself to shed some weight. And after seeing an advert for Slimming World decided to give it a go. Within weeks of joining in April 2011 Andrea said she "felt great".
She added: "I was getting stronger and stronger and I was soon able to start thinking of exercise. I joined local Zumba classes and enjoyed swimming. In time I even joined a new ladies only running group to train to be able to do the popular couch to 5K. Something I never thought I would do was run.
"I really was feeling great and was often awarded Slimmer of the Week for my weight loss achievements and was crowned our groups 'Miss Slinky'."
But over time Andrea started to become "complacent" and she regained the weight she had lost.
"Over time I started to think I had it cracked, got comfortable, maybe even a bit complacent and I drifted away from group. My old habits slowly crept back and I gained the weight back. Over a few years, I tried myself and even rejoined Slimming World but never with a real belief or commitment to change", said Andrea.
Soon Andrea felt her weight was once again impacting her mental health, confidence and self-esteem. "My physical health was suffering too", said Andrea, adding: "For years I have suffered with IBS and gluten intolerance which often caused serious boating and discomfort."
With the support of a friend she returned to Slimming World in February 2023 and is now beginning a new career as a consultant after finding her motivation for the group once again.
"I now call it my journey of self-discovery", said Andrea.
"I love that I have lost weight. But what I've gained is so much more, it's more than I ever imagined. Group for me is the best ever, so warm and friendly. I've made many friends, and we all support each other, it's like a big family get together every Thursday morning."
She added: "I'm so excited to be launching my own group on 29th January, 5.30pm and 7pm at Cornerstones Methodist Church (Market Place, North Burns) Chester le Street. Everyone will be welcome to come along and join me from January 15."