Stretford slimmer learned to walk again despite MS diagnosis

Craig Shannon was devastated when he was diagnosed with the disease of the nervous system three years ago, and piled on the pounds in the months afterwards.

Craig had always liked his food and drink, but he relied more than ever on it to cope with the depression and isolation brought on by a combination of the diagnosis and and the coronavirus lockdown which came in 2020.

Craig Shannon.

It took an intervention from family, friends and healthcare professionals to explain he was at risk of an early death before he decided to take action.

Reliant on walking sticks and a wheelchair at the time, Craig decided to attend Slimming World in Stretford.

He said: "I was in a bad way when I came into group that first night. I had to go up in the lift and I struggled walking into the room with my sticks.

"However, when I was sat in the room I felt so safe that I decided to be totally open with the other members.

"I explained to them how important it was to me to improve my health following my diagnosis, and how I was going to commit to everything Slimming World had to offer – it was the only option."

At Slimming World, Craig learned to swap the unhealthiest foods and drinks for alternatives, or to make them himself instead of ordering them from a takeaway.

He lost 11.5 stone in less than a year and he was able to walk unaided again as a result.

Craig Shannon.

Craig said: "I am back to be being me. I was so shocked at how much the weight impacted my MS diagnosis.

"I have gone from going everywhere in a wheelchair to now on my lunch going for a short walk, something that I never thought would be possible.

"It really has saved my life," he added.