40-year-old Sarah Stevens from Southampton has gone from rock bottom to top of the world!
Sarah, pictured second from left, has walked her way to an incredible transformation.
“For 20 years I’d felt weak and useless and completely powerless to change something that was as simple as eating less and moving more, so I had a gastric sleeve fitted. At the time I was the heaviest I’d ever been and utterly miserable. I dreaded days out with the kids, couldn't walk up the stairs without getting out of breath and felt I had nothing to look forward to but misery and health problems. I recovered well and started relearning how and what to eat – to address all my issues with food and myself. To help, three months after surgery, on Christmas day 2022, I signed up to #walk1000miles. I wanted a challenge that would set me up for success and give me a support network to encourage me as I tentatively started to exercise.
I had very little confidence and was convinced I would quit. But within a month of starting the challenge I was already feeling stronger and more confident. I was sharing progress of my weight loss, and walks with friends and then a group of friends who’d recently climbed Snowdon said they planned to climb Ben Nevis later in the year and asked if I’d to join them. I said no way would I ever be strong or fit enough!
Over the next couple of months I plodded on, going further and feeling fitter and stronger. My friends kept mentioning the trip and eventually I agreed to try, even though I was absolutely sure it wouldn't happen! But in May, having lost seven stone, I joined the group and we set off. The journey was epic, the weather conditions close to perfect. As we neared the summit I was overwhelmed and started crying as I reflected on how far I’d come. I used to have no faith in myself and there I was on top of a massive mountain! We spent so long at the top, soaking up the views. On the way down I found a moment to sit alone looking out over the lochs and mountains and had another good cry. I felt like there was nothing I couldn't achieve, I felt so strong, and proud of myself and excited about the future for the first time in forever.
With three children at home and a career change underway, walking regularly gives me space to process everything. When I get home I feel renewed and energised. I’m very motivated by hitting my milestones and I love being able to share my struggles, achievements and goals with the community. They’re so quick to encourage and celebrate little triumphs. No judgement, only encouragement. We’re capable of so much more than we realise! The steps we take today really will take you to where you want to be tomorrow or next week or next year. Have courage and take that first step!”
