Incredible journey to a healthy lifestyle

Bunbury resident Rachelle Johnstone has capped off a massive transformation in her life by reaching the semi-finals of the Weight Watchers Healthy Life Awards.

Not only did Mrs Johnstone shed her target weight of 12kg but she reached a personal goal when she climbed Mount Kinabalu in Borneo last week, something she said she could not have achieved before losing weight.

The 27-year-old was one of just five semi-finalists in the State and said losing weight had given her a ‘‘new lease on life’’.

‘‘I feel healthy, more confident and have a lot more energy,’’ she said.

Trying on dresses in preparation for her wedding was one of the big motivations behind losing the weight. Mrs Johnstone shed the weight through a combination of healthy eating and about four gym sessions a week.

‘I got married last year and I was trying on wedding dresses and thought to myself that I couldn’t get married looking like I did,’’ she said.

‘‘The weekend I bought my wedding dress I signed up for Weight Watchers because a friend of mine had been doing it.

‘‘I actually reached my goal weight three days before the wedding which was a really good feeling.’’

Group leader for Weight Watchers in South Bunbury, Tanya Brennan, praised Mrs Johnstone on her efforts.

‘‘We’re so proud of Rachelle’s incredible journey with Weight Watchers,’’ she said.

‘‘We understand that the first initial steps towards a healthier lifestyle can sometimes be a little daunting, so I hope that Rachelle’s story can show others what can be achieved with positive thinking and perseverance.’’

‘‘WA entrants to this year’s Healthy Life Awards have lost a combined total of more than 1000kg, with each and every one of them taking positive steps towards leading a healthier, happier life.’’