A single father from Tipton has revealed how a distressing experience at a family wedding became the catalyst for an incredible health transformation, seeing him shed over eleven stone.
A Turning Point in Sorrento
Richard Perry, 45, reached a peak weight of 27st 2lbs and was managing serious health conditions, including type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. His daily routine involved taking 15 prescribed tablets just to function. The pivotal moment came in October 2023 during a trip to Sorrento, Italy, for his niece's wedding. Suffering from hyperglycaemia, he was left feeling utterly exhausted and miserable, a sensation he described as "dreadful." This experience forced him to confront his health for the sake of his two children, Olivia and Thomas.
The Journey to a New Life
Upon returning home, Richard decided to overhaul his lifestyle and joined his local Slimming World group in Tipton. The results have been nothing short of remarkable. To date, he has lost a staggering 11st 7.5lbs, bringing his weight down to 15st 8.5lbs. The physical benefits are profound: his daily medication has been slashed from 15 tablets to just three, his acid reflux has vanished, and his diabetes medication has been dramatically reduced.
This new lease on life has unlocked a world of activity he once thought impossible. Simple tasks like putting on socks without holding his breath are now easy. He regularly swims 50 lengths, fits comfortably into a plane seat, and enjoys an active routine that includes walking 10km daily, horse riding, jet skiing, and kayaking.
Mental Liberation and Giving Back
The transformation extends far beyond the physical. Richard's confidence has soared, empowering him to book a "liberating" solo holiday abroad for October 2025, with another already planned for 2026. His newfound positivity has also inspired him to give back to his community. He has signed up to donate blood and volunteers at the Birmingham Christmas Shelter.
At home, he maintains his healthy lifestyle by cooking "fakeaways" with his children, who attend Slimming World meetings with him for support. A spokesperson for Slimming World stated the journey has given Richard his life back, leaving him the fittest, healthiest, and most confident he has ever been.
