AN inspirational Dalton man has lost inches off his waistline and ‘reversed’ his type two diabetes.

Lewis Kelly, who has Down Syndrome, has lost an incredible six stone during his journey with Slimming World and has earned himself many awards including ‘Mr Sleek’.

Lewis took the plunge and made the decision to lose weight due to ill health. He was type two diabetic, and after catching Covid-19 at the beginning of the pandemic, he had become very ill.

Type two diabetes is often linked to being overweight or inactive, however, it can also be caused by non-lifestyle related conditions.

Lewis said: “I decided to do something for myself, and boy do I feel so much better.

“After losing six stone I’m no longer diabetic and my blood pressure is normal.

“My health has improved tenfold with losing weight but as I’m disabled I’ve got slack joints and I still suffer with pains, but nothing like it was, I’m on top of the world.

“I know I’ve got a disability but with the support of family and my Slimming World group friends I know anything can be achieved.

“It’s been an amazing journey. I love my life now - I’m getting out more now I’m more confident.

“My family have been an amazing support for me and especially on my weight loss journey bringing me to group each week and helping with the food.

“I don’t take any medication now, it’s (type two diabetes) controlled by my healthy eating lifestyle.”

Lewis said that joining the group has taught him to ‘love himself again’.

He said: “My Slimming World group taught me to love myself again and gave me the belief in myself that I could lose weight because I want a healthy lifestyle so I can live longer as I’ve struggled most of my life with a low immune system, so on a plus note I’m feeling brilliant.

“Always love yourself and believe that you can do this... be strong with yourself the power of the mind is an awesome thing.”

Lewis has been the group’s Slimmer of the Week 11 times, Slimmer of the Month four times, achieved his first half stone award on week two and was named Man of the Year and Mr Sleek.

Slimming World group consultant Karen Clarke said: “We are so proud of him. He’s a shining star in our group everyone is so supportive of not only Lewis but each other too, we are a team.”

If you would like more information on joining Slimming World, call Karen on 07828957489