Banbury woman loses four stone after diabetes diagnosis

Debbie Heighton, 48, was told she had high blood pressure after a health check at work in September 2023.

She soon received a type 2 diabetes diagnosis from her doctor, which motivated her to take action.

She referred herself to Move Together, a programme coordinated by Active Oxfordshire and Cherwell District Council.

Debbie Heighton before joining the Move Together programme (Image: Cherwell District Council) It provides tailored exercise programmes for people with long-term physical or mental health conditions.

With this newfound motivation, Ms Heighton started going to the gym and began to see results.

She said: "Just reading up on diabetes made me realise I had to do something to make my health better.

"I have been using the discount the Move Together card gives me to go to Spiceball Leisure Centre three times a week where I use the weights and exercise machines.

"Since discovering Move Together I have lost four stone. The support and encouragement I get from my friends, family, and the Move Together team - checking on how I am getting on - have been so important."

Ms Heighton said her GP was "shocked" at her weight loss at her last check-up, adding she would "highly recommend" the programme.

Debbie Heighton after joining the Move Together programme (Image: Cherwell District Council) She continued: "I am so much happier than I was and am proud to have proved to the doctor that I don’t need to go on medication to manage my condition."

Move Together is open to Oxfordshire residents who meet eligibility criteria and provides telephone support and fitness sessions to help them increase their activity levels.

One of the options on offer is a 50 per cent discount at all leisure centres in Cherwell district for Move Together members.

Councillor Rob Pattenden, portfolio holder for healthy communities, said: "Cherwell has the highest take-up rate for Move Together in the county.

"We’re actively supporting over 300 participants and almost 3,000 have completed the programme.

"The class-leading initiatives we provide here in the district are supporting the work of the NHS and helping our residents lead healthier and happier lives.

"Debbie’s story is an absolute inspiration, and I am hugely grateful to her for showing us what people can achieve when they get the exercise bug.

"I’m delighted that Spiceball Leisure Centre and Move Together are playing their part in her amazing health journey and those of so many of our residents across north Oxfordshire."

To sign up, visit the Move Together website or call 01295 221575 and speak to a member of the Cherwell Move Together team.