2 May 2025

Paramedics show that wellbeing matters through life-changing weight loss journeys

Two paramedics at the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service are sharing their personal weight loss stories to inspire others to prioritise their mental and physical wellbeing.

Kerry, a student paramedic, and her manager Iain, an Operation Station Manager decided it was time to take better care of their own health. What began as a commitment to wellbeing has transformed their lives far beyond the numbers on the scales. Between them Kerry and Iain have lost a staggering 19 stone in weight through sheer hard work and determination to feel happier and healthier.

“Taking time to care for ourselves has helped us feel more comfortable and confident in every area of our lives,” said Kerry.

Reflecting on her weight loss and where it all started, Kerry shared: “My weight was having a serious impact on my mental health. I realised that if I kept putting myself last, I wouldn’t be able to keep doing the job I love. Everything at work started to feel harder. By the end of each shift, I was physically and mentally exhausted and I knew something needed to change.”

Working night shifts on the frontline and coping with life’s stresses, Kerry turned to food for comfort, particularly sugary snacks to get through the long hours. Over time, the weight crept on, and she gained nearly four stone over four years.

Since sharing her story online, Kerry has been overwhelmed by the support and curiosity from others asking how she and Iain achieved their results.

“I started small,” Kerry explained. “I swapped takeaways for home-cooked meals that were prepared in advance and added simple exercise into my weekly routine. It didn’t feel like much at the time, but those small changes really added up. I’ve now lost nearly six stone, but what I’ve gained is so much more. I feel lighter, sharper on shift, more present in life. I sleep better, I’m calmer under pressure, and I’ve realised that taking care of your health isn’t selfish it’s a form of strength.

“There are so many tools out there to help people, whether it's fitness trackers, meal planning apps, mindfulness techniques, or simply reaching out for support from colleagues or professionals. Don’t be ashamed to use them, everyone’s journey is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to health. The most important thing is to focus on your end goal, not the opinions of others. No matter where you start, it’s about finding what works for you and sticking with it.

“Iain has been on a slightly different journey, but we’ve celebrated every step of the way together. He’s also achieved an incredible transformation and I’m incredibly proud of both of us for pushing through difficult times and prioritising our mental and physical health.”

Iain’s commitment to improving his health and wellbeing has been a long one. Since joining the Ambulance Service in 2010, he began to struggle with the emotional toll of the job, which affected both his mental health and weight.

“I’ve always been a big guy,” said Iain. “But over time, especially as the trauma of the job took its toll, my weight ballooned. I sought help from my GP and was referred to a weight management team where I received nutritional advice and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). That support helped me understand the emotional triggers behind overeating and showed me that factors like stress management are just as important as diet.”

After 12 months on the programme, Iain weighed 29 stone and 12 pounds in June 2023. He was referred to Queen Alexandra Hospital for bariatric surgery which was a decision he says has been life-changing.

“Since the surgery, I’ve lost nearly 13 stone. I ‘ve gone from getting out of breath climbing stairs and suffering from back and joint pain, to now regularly playing 1st Team rugby for my local club. I’ve rediscovered my love for rock climbing, cycling and walking. I feel fitter, healthier, and happier, both physically and mentally.

“I now cope much better with the demands of the job and feel more confident in every aspect of my work. Our role is all about helping those who need us most, but it’s easy to forget that we need to look after ourselves too so we can continue caring for others.”

Victoria White, Director of IW Ambulance Service said: “Kerry and Iain’s story is a powerful reminder that true care starts with ourselves. Their dedication to personal wellbeing not only transformed their own lives, but also inspires us all to lead by example — with courage, compassion, and commitment to both mental and physical health.”

Kerry and Iain share three key pieces of advice for anyone thinking of starting their own health journey:

  • Start small. Sustainable change begins with manageable steps like removing sugar from your tea or choosing fruit over sweets
  • Be consistent, not perfect. You don’t have to be perfect every day. Treats are OK but not every day. Try and show up, even on the tough days.
  • Move in a way that works for you. Whether it’s walking, stretching, or dancing in the kitchen just get moving

Mathew McKeown, Isle of Wight NHS Trust and Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust Service Lead for Occupational Health said: “Congratulations to Kerry and Iain on their weight loss and improved health journey.  Apart from the well-recognised benefits of increased fitness and weight-loss on cardiovascular health and reduced diabetes risk, there are also positive mental health impacts. From an occupational perspective this also translates into increased energy and reduced fatigue, better sleep and increased mental and physical resilience. All important factors in a healthy workforce enabling us to provide the best service we can for the community we serve.’