A Burnham-On-Sea teenager has shed six stone during an incredible period of weight loss in time for her prom night.
Stephanie Jeffries, 16, joined Burnham’s Slimming World group in October 2011 in a wheelchair and was unable to walk without help, weighing 17 stone 9lb.
Since then, she’s gone from a dress size 22 to a sleek size 12 and regained some of her mobility in time for her school prom.
Stephanie – who was born with Cerebral Palsy and is paralysed down the left side of her body – told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “I’d spent many nights crying, not only about my disabilities, but my weight too.”
“Most of my childhood was spent in a wheelchair and I was supported by a splint on my left leg which made walking very painful.”
“Despite my parents trying their hardest, my weight just went on and on. Doctors told me that my weight was having a negative impact on my disabilities. I understood, but with limited moving activity it was very hard for me.”
“However, in my first month at Slimming World I’d lost 13 1/2lbs, which was almost a stone.”
“Such joy was seen on people’s faces, especially Keran Parker, my consultant, when I later entered the class not in a wheelchair, but finally walking. The Slimming World group have applauded every pound I’ve lost along the way.”
“There’s been so much support and I’m really thankful to not only my mum, Ann, and dad, Steve, for their love, support and encouragement, but also to Keran and the many members who have encouraged me along the way.”
“The highlight of my journey was when I went to pick up my prom dress. It’s a size 12 and I felt confident for the first time in my life to carry the dress I’m wearing unaided.”
“I am so happy to have finally shed the weight – it’s made life so much easier.”
“I know my disabilities will never go away but I also know I’m living a healthier, fitter life. I’m no longer out of breath and don’t get stitches when I exercise.”
Stephanie, who has been given a ‘Young Slimmer of the Year’ award by Slimming World, says she hopes her story will inspire others to give it a try.
Pictured: Top, Stephanie before and after her weight loss and, above, with her proud parents Ann and Steve (pics – Jan Bonus)
