“It gave me a kickstart to look at myself again”

Marian’s journey to health, confidence and connection at the Campus for Future Living

At 67, Marian Reilly isn’t afraid of a challenge.  

After a busy career managing IT services across London and beyond, retirement should have been a chance to slow down. But for Marian, it brought something unexpected. 

“You think it’s lovely at first,” she said. “But after a while, you realise you’ve lost that structure. You sleep a bit longer, you’re not as active … and before you know it, things start to creep in. 

“I found I was getting up later and eating more just for something to do.” 

Over time, Marian noticed the change. She felt less fit, less motivated and her weight began to rise. 

“I put on four stone,” she explained. “I was huffing and puffing walking round the shops. I just thought, I can’t keep going like this.” 

It was a simple moment that changed everything. 

A poster on a community noticeboard in her local Co-Op caught her eye. A new health group – One You Lincolnshire - starting at the Campus for Future Living in Mablethorpe. 

“I saw it there, then it popped up on Facebook as well,” she laughs. “I thought maybe this is meant to be.” 

A different kind of support 

From the moment Marian stepped into the Campus, she realised this wasn’t like anything she’d tried before. 

“It’s not about being judged or compared to others,” she said. “I’d tried other groups years ago and it felt like you were being called out. That’s not what this is.”  

Instead, the small group – just seven people – quickly became something else entirely. 

“We’ve really gelled. We support each other, we laugh together. It’s a lovely atmosphere.” 

Led by a friendly and encouraging group leader, sessions focus on practical, everyday changes from understanding food labels to rethinking habits. 

“It’s taught me something really important – no food is ‘bad’,” Marian said. “If you want a piece of cake, have it. Just balance it. Don’t punish yourself.”  

For Marian, that shift in mindset has been just as powerful as any number on the scales. 

Small steps, big changes 

What started as a weekly group has sparked wider changes in Marian’s life. 

She now goes to the gym three times a week – something she hadn’t done in years. 

“It took a lot to walk through that door again,” she admits. “But everyone’s so friendly. Nobody’s judging you – you just get on with your own thing.”  

Six weeks in, the results spoke for themselves. 

“I’d lost twelve pounds of fat and gained four pounds of muscle,” she said. “I was quite embarrassed when they announced it to everyone – but secretly, I was pleased!”  

Nine weeks into the programme, Marian has lost nine pounds overall and is already seeing a difference in how she feels and moves. 

“My shape’s changed. I’ve lost an inch off my waist,” she beamed. But more importantly, her habits have changed. 

Whether it’s checking food labels, planning meals or even taking a homemade salad to a classic car show instead of reaching for fast food, Marian is making choices that feel realistic – and sustainable. 

A place that makes change possible 

For Marian, the Campus for Future Living has been a catalyst for her change. 

“It’s an excellent site – it’s all new, welcoming, and there’s so much going on,” she said. “I didn’t know they ran other groups but I’ve had a look and there are a few others I’d quite like to join.”  

Having a local, accessible space offering joined-up services has made it easier to take that first step and, crucially, keep going.  

Looking ahead 

So what’s next For Marian? This isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about lasting change. 

“It’s given me that kickstart,” she said. “I’m more mindful now – of what I eat, how I move, how I look after myself.”  

And perhaps most importantly, she’s found something else along the way: connection. 

“It’s not just about weight loss,” she explained. “It’s the people, the support, the encouragement. That’s what keeps you going.”