Pontyclun slimmer loses nine stone in a year – almost half her body weight

A PONTYCLUN mother-of-three who was told by doctors she wouldn’t make it to 60 has lost an incredible nine stone in 12 months.

Nicole Pemberton, of Ynysmaerdy Terrace, Pontyclun, stunned fellow slimmers at her Llantrisant class by losing almost half her body weight eating healthily and walking her dog.

After having three children, as well as suffering from back, knee and hip pain, the 46-year-old reached 22st 4lbs in January 2011 – a weight which doctors said could lead to an early grave.

But the determined Taff Ely resident cut out the takeaways and started making healthy meals, which she shared with her husband Mark.

She said: “When I was told I wouldn’t be here for much longer, I knew I had to change my ways.

“Even though I had the back problems before I gained the weight, I now feel much more mobile.

“I have been very lucky. I don’t feel out of puff anymore when I walk the dog, and I do feel happier in myself.

“Mark has lost five stone as well. He doesn’t go to any of the classes, but he’s happy enough eating the food!”

Mrs Pemberton, who also spends time looking after her elderly father, said her daughter in particular was very impressed at her sudden weight loss.

Nicole added: “When I make my mind up to do something, I’m quite blinkered. I had every intention of doing it and I won’t stop until I reach a size 14.”

After spending 12 months with Slimming World in Llantrisant, she is now in charge of weighing other members of the group.

Manal Hammoudeh, a Slimming World consultant, said losing nine stone in a year was very unusual.

She said: “I started with Nicole when I was in charge of the Llantrisant group, and we have stayed in touch.

“She is a very determined woman and I’m very proud of her.”