Local Resident Shares Life-Changing Experience this Diabetes Week

As part of National Diabetes Week, local residents from Stirchley recently attended an information event to learn more about the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme – a ground-breaking initiative helping people to take control of their health and, in some cases, reverse their Type 2 diabetes.

National Diabetes Week takes place between Monday 9 and Sunday 15 June every year, and is supported by Diabetes UK, to raise awareness about the things that matter to people living with diabetes, to shine a spotlight on the condition and how it can be managed.

During the Strichley event, led by service provider Counterweight, attendees heard first-hand from Patrick, who has completed the programme and is local to the area, just how life-changing it can be. He is now encouraging others to take the first steps towards better health.

After joining the programme, Patrick lost 26kg and brought his blood sugar levels back to a healthy range. He now no longer needs diabetes medication to manage the condition. Speaking about his experience, Patrick said: “108 kilos down to 82. I feel like I’ve gained another 5 years of life. Just do it. Nothing to lose and a life to gain.”

The NHS-funded programme supports people with Type 2 diabetes to lose weight, improve blood sugar levels, and often reduce or stop medications altogether. Stirchley residents who attended the event left inspired, with many getting referred on the spot.

Dr Lorna Clarson, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, said: “If you have Type 2 diabetes and you’re ready to change your health and your lifestyle, please ask a member of the team at your GP practice about the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme. They will be more than happy to help.

“It’s free, fully supported, and changes lives. With a specially tailored diet for each participant and tips on achieving a healthy weight, it is possible through this programme to make positive changes that can significantly improve your health and wellbeing. It offers a great opportunity for our residents with Type 2 diabetes who want to lose weight, and we are keen to spread the word as widely as possible.”

To find out more information about the Counterweight initiative, please visit: Counterweight | The leaders in long-term weight loss and type 2 diabetes remission.