From grief to growth - Tony’s Story

After losing his wife in 2019, Tony was still struggling and looking for support. His GP suggested the Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.

“My goal was simple: lose weight and understand nutrition better so I could make healthier choices. On day one, I opened the course booklet and saw a map of the UK with a virtual walk from Land’s End to John O’Groats. That sparked something in me. I decided to go even further—from the Isles of Scilly to the Shetland Isles. So far, Levko (my late wife’s Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) and I have walked and cycled 650 miles. I’ve lost 2 stone, and my waist has gone from 43 inches to 34. These days, I average 25,000 steps a day and feel better than I have in decades.”

The programme is designed to be informal, interactive and supportive. Everyone will be working together and supporting each other. As you progress you will start to feel healthier through the changes you make to your own lifestyle. They key part of the programme is ensuring these changes are sustainable - now and in the future.

“What made the biggest difference? Being accepted. Not judged. Just seen as someone grieving, trying to find his way back. My Health Coach really understood me, and that meant everything. Believing in myself was the hardest part of this journey. But slowly, I began to trust that I could reach my goals—and I did.”

Now, I’m halfway through my 3,000-mile challenge. Levko and I have crossed England and Wales, next stop is Scotland. The Highlands await! I feel confident managing my diet and weight, and I’m actually looking forward to my NHS health check this November. I can’t wait to see my GP’s face when he sees the transformation. Honestly, I’m fitter now than I was at 40!”

“So, it’s a big thank you to Healthier You, Heidi and all the team behind her. This really is a life changing experience for me and my walk is only half done! Now, I’m looking forward to the rest of my life! You have put a smile back on my face, eased my pain and given me new meaning and purpose in my life!

And Levko? At 11 years old, he’s having the time of his life.”