Pamela and Matthew’s story

Matthew was obsessed with food, always asking what time his next meal was going to be - and when.  “Before we went on the Programme he used to eat and eat and eat,” recalls mum Pamela.

Since taking part in the course, 9-year-old Matthew has made a chart for the daily portions he should be eating and treats, like chocolate, are for Saturday mornings only.   “He’s tried all sorts of different new foods, including sardines, which bowled me over!” says Pamela.  The whole family has stopped buying junk food and instead, snack on fruit and vegetables.  In restaurants, they tend to order salads.  They all feel fitter and healthier and they have all lost some weight.

“The Programme Leaders were fantastic and really good at motivating us. In fact, since finishing the Programme, Matthew hasn't stopped exercising,” says Pamela. 'He loved the fun activities and games during the exercise sessions, and at the beginning of every session he used to say, "I can't wait to see what we are going to be doing today to keep fit!"' They now make weekly family trips to the local pool on a Sunday and Matthew regularly swims around 40 lengths.

Matthew loved the Programme's social side and made many new friends.  According to Pamela, as his confidence has increased, so have his communication skills. "Before, he would often just give 'yes' or 'no' answers to questions which was really frustrating. Now he gives fuller, more detailed replies.  Also, his self-esteem has grown so much that he even modelled in a local kids’ fashion show recently!"

Matthew has become so passionate about MEND that he is campaigning for a ban on unhealthy food in his school, recommending that it should be replaced with healthier options such as salad and more fruit and vegetables.

Joe’s GP recommended the MEND Programme after she noticed that he was struggling with his weight and lifestyle choices.  Aged 11 and already weighing over 12 stone, Joe wanted to be active but found it hard to enjoy PE because of his weight.

“Although Joe was keen to make some changes, I was pretty sceptical about whether the course would make a difference,” admits Anne. “But I have to say we loved the course and found it easy to stick to because it was so enjoyable.  Joe was really enthusiastic and especially enjoyed the nutrition sessions and learning about healthier food choices.”

“Joe has completely changed his eating habits and fatty foods hardly feature in his diet,” continues Anne.  “He always thinks about what he eats and loves to prepare food at home, using healthier alternatives, such as wholemeal bread, pasta and rice.  He's also developed a love of cooking and preparing food, which amazes me!” Although he has always been active, since MEND, Joe has far more energy and now enjoys keeping fit.  He attends karate three times a week, plays golf and has been skiing with the school.

“Best of all, my son loves the way he looks after attending the MEND Programme. He can shop for trendy clothes without feeling self-conscious.  Even though Joe has always been confident, he has made new friends through the MEND Programme and is so excited about what he has achieved.”  In fact, the whole family has benefited from the course - with Anne losing about half a stone by following the new healthy eating plan - to support Joe as much as they could.

Since completing the MEND Programme, the biggest change for Jade is the amount of exercise she takes.  “She sees opportunities to become active all around,” explains mum Karen, “For example, she walks everywhere but if she feels it might be too far, she takes her scooter to ensure she still gets her exercise!”  Jade goes swimming two or three times a week and trampolines every night.  At school, she is mixing with other groups and has even joined the netball team - something she would never have contemplated in the past.

“Before starting the Programme Jade was extremely shy, avoiding large groups and not enjoying being part of smaller groups because she felt so self-conscious,” reflects Karen. “At social occasions and family get-togethers, she always tried to blend into the background.  Now she mixes with different groups and has made so many new friends. Her confidence has increased hugely.”

Jade’s family has benefited greatly as they are more aware of what to eat - and all eat much more healthily. When they go shopping, they understand food labels so now they know exactly what they are buying.  Jade used to love white bread, chocolates and sweets but now she considers them to be special treats.

“I really enjoyed watching Jade grow and develop through the 10 weeks and seeing her change in attitude.  It was special mum and daughter time and we’re now so much closer.”