Couple transforms their health with support from County Durham’s Wellbeing for Life service

Leanne and Luke, a young couple from County Durham, have made huge steps in both physical and emotional wellbeing, thanks to the support of the Wellbeing for Life (WBFL) team and the Eatwise programme. Their story shows what’s possible with the right tools and determination and a bit of teamwork.

At just 29, Leanne was living with Type 2 diabetes and Fibromyalgia, conditions that had taken a toll on her daily life. She found herself caught in a cycle of disordered eating, fatigue, and weight gain, all worsened by the side effects of her medication. With her 30^th birthday approaching, she made the decision to reach out for help and began her journey with WBFL.

“I knew I needed to make a change, but I didn’t know where to start,” said Leanne. “WBFL offered the support I needed to take back control.”

With guidance from the Eatwise programme, Leanne made steady progress, losing an impressive two and a half stone, reshaping her eating habits, and gaining back her energy and self-esteem.

It wasn’t just about the numbers on the scale. Leanne noticed improvements in her mood, digestion, and physical strength. Once bed-bound with pain, she now walks comfortably to her local Tesco and even incorporates Tai Chi into her routine. Her Fibromyalgia recovery time has shortened, and the weight loss has eased pressure on her spine, helping to prevent further complications.

Leanne shared, “I used to snack constantly—on one day I counted 24 portions of carbs! When I learned a portion is only meant to be the size of your palm, it completely shifted the way I eat.”

Her partner Luke also felt the ripple effect. Although not aiming for weight loss, by supporting Leanne and adopting healthier habits himself, he naturally lost a stone. “We started weighing our portions, added more protein, and it just worked,” said Luke. “Watching Leanne’s transformation has been incredible.”

But the impact didn’t stop at home. Inspired by her journey, Leanne has gone on to volunteer with the County Durham Resilience Team. Through her connection to the Pioneering Care Partnership, she’s found renewed purpose in helping others take their first steps toward a healthier lifestyle.

“If someone had told me in 2020 that I’d be the lightest I’ve been in seven years, I wouldn’t have believed it,” she said.

Leanne and Luke’s story is a wonderful example of what this service is all about. Small changes can make a big difference, and WBFL is there to support people every step of the way. Whether it's healthy eating, physical activity or emotional wellbeing.

Wellbeing for Life is a free service for anyone living or working in County Durham. If you're ready to make a change, no matter how big or small, visit www.wellbeingforlife.net or email the team at cdda-tr.WBFL@nhs.net.

Wellbeing for Life is a part of Adult Wellbeing Services, delivered in partnership by Pioneering Care Partnership and County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust.