Renfrewshire Dad Transforms Life, Inspires Community Weight Loss

A father from Renfrewshire has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding over 12 stone and motivating others to embark on similar journeys. Douglas Clark, who once weighed 26 stone 11 pounds, is now leading a local group that has collectively lost nearly 60 stone in just eight months.

Douglas, a father of three, described how his previous weight became a significant barrier to living the life he desired. Today, he has traded his four XL T-shirts for medium sizes, completed his first half marathon, and achieved a personal best at a local parkrun with a time of 27 minutes 15 seconds. Reflecting on his journey, the 48-year-old stated, “I used to avoid even short walks and now I’m planning a marathon. But the real transformation isn’t just physical — it’s about confidence, energy, and believing in myself again.”

Community Support Drives Success

Douglas’s personal success story is complemented by the achievements of members within the Glenburn Slimming World group, which launched in January 2023. Among them is David Maxwell, who has lost over 6 stone in six months and continues to pursue his weight loss goals. “I’ve been going to what I call my family reunion every Thursday for six months,” David expressed. “I’ve received love, laughs, friendship, and fantastic support from these beautiful new friends of mine in class. Their support has been priceless in my battle.”

Another participant, Jackie, joined Slimming World to manage her type 2 diabetes and recently received the life-changing news that her latest blood tests are within normal range. “I never thought I’d see the day when my results looked this good,” she said.

Douglas’s own father, Tom Clark, joined the program at the age of 80 to support his son. The former national cycling champion has since lost over 2 stone, rediscovered his bicycle, and found a renewed sense of self following the loss of his wife, Elizabeth, in 2020. “She would be so proud if she could see Douglas in action with his group and see the community he has built,” Tom remarked.

A Focus on Community and Empowerment

Douglas believes that Slimming World represents much more than simply losing weight. He emphasized that their mantra is “Choose Success.” This philosophy encourages members to be kind to themselves and to take manageable steps toward their desired lifestyles.

The sense of community is palpable within the Glenburn group. Regular midweek walks and members participating in their first parkruns have fostered friendships and transformed lives. “Seeing people walk in nervous and leave smiling and confident is the best feeling,” Douglas noted. “It’s why I do what I do.”

The Glenburn Slimming World group meets every Thursday at 7 PM at St Peter’s Men’s Club, Braehead Road, Glenburn. Douglas Clark’s inspiring journey and the collective achievements of his group highlight the power of support and determination in overcoming personal challenges.