‘Huge inspiration’: Culdaff woman enjoys ‘amazing success’ as she loses 4½ stone

When Martina Davenport from Culdaff decided to join Slimming World in November 2024, just before Christmas, people thought she was mad.

But Martina knew that losing weight wasn’t just for Christmas – it was for life.

Her weight was affecting every part of her daily routine. She suffered back and joint pain, constant tiredness and a complete lack of energy. She knew something had to change.

Since joining her local Slimming World group, Martina says she feels like a completely different person, inside and out.

“I feel like a new woman since losing weight – in fact, I look so different that people I haven’t seen in a while don’t even recognise me! I’m happier, healthier, have so much more energy and my confidence has grown massively.
Before losing weight, everything left me breathless and exhausted. I felt awful. Now I just want to make up for lost time and enjoy all the things my weight once held me back from.”

Martina’s turning point came after a hospital stay made her realise she needed to take action.

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It took her another six months to walk through the Slimming World doors, but she’s so glad she did – not only is she lighter and happier, but her blood pressure and cholesterol medication has also been reduced.

Being overweight, particularly with a BMI over 30, can increase the risk of serious health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and some cancers, and is linked to a reduction in life expectancy. Martina was determined not to let that be her future.

Joining with her sister and a friend, Martina bravely stepped into her local Slimming World group in Carndonagh.

“Walking through those doors was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I was embarrassed and terrified I’d fail yet again – but I needn’t have worried. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. I’ve made amazing friends and the support has been incredible. When you have a lot of weight to lose, there are so many hurdles to overcome and habits to change. I honestly couldn’t have done it without my consultant, Roisin McColgan. Her motivation and support were second to none – always there if I needed help. The group was fantastic too, full of tips, recipes and encouragement every single week.”

Martina also loved Slimming World’s famous Food Optimising plan.

“People think slimming means going hungry, eating nothing but salad and constantly counting calories – but it’s nothing like that at Slimming World. I love food and I’ve never once felt like I was on a diet. I still enjoy curries, chilli and roast dinners, I’ve just learned to make simple swaps like lean meat and low-calorie cooking spray. It fits perfectly with my family life too – we all eat the same meals and feel so much healthier.”

Roisin McColgan, consultant for the morning Carndonagh group, says: “Martina is a huge inspiration to everyone in the group. I hope her amazing success encourages others in Carndonagh who’d love to lose weight and feel happier and healthier to take that first step. There’s a warm welcome waiting for you at Slimming World.”