At 20 stones with arthritis and a looming knee replacement, enough was enough. Your jab life unfiltered

Anna-Louise Dearden | Last update: 11th October 2025

Why did you decide to start slimming jabs – and what was your turning point?

(We love a lightbulb moment – big or small.)

I decided to try Mounjaro as, like many people, I’d tried to lose weight loads of times and failed miserably. Having rheumatoid and osteoarthritis and knee replacements on the horizon, I decided enough was enough and I had to do something about my weight.

What surprised you most when you started?

(Be honest. We’ve heard everything from burping air to crying over chips.)

What surprised me the most at the start was that I had zero side effects despite injecting methotrexate and anti TNF meds weekly (injectable medications that treat inflammatory conditions). Fantastic news! Then I was shocked that I was losing weight even though I’m almost immobile. A revelation. Plus I’d forgotten about my beloved dark chocolate digestive biscuits that were waiting for me in the cupboard. I’ve not eaten one in six months.

What’s your jab routine like now – pen, time, tricks?

(Do you set an alarm, use a Post-it, or just wing it?)

My jab routine? Non-existent. It’s one of three for me every week and the day is a moveable feast. Memory of a goldfish.

Who has been the most supportive person in your WLD journey?

(Mum, bf, total strangers?)

Friends have been incredibly encouraging, as have most people really – particularly my rheumatologist. My friends think it’s great and some have decided to take it too (after they’ve seen how I am). I talk about it openly on social media.

There are certain people who don’t really understand the challenges that some of us have. The ‘eat less crew’ that are already a size 10 and have never had an issue.

Also, push-back from some personal trainers who don’t understand, and think because they can build muscles, they’re nutrition and psychological experts too (they are not!).

What’s your go-to comfort food now – and what’s out?

(Pasta forever? Chicken ick? We want it all.)

I’ve found I love weird foods now. Well weird to me. Mackerel, beetroot and mackerel with beetroot. What happened to the old Wendy?

Best thing you’ve gained – besides weight loss?

(Confidence? Shoes you can finally lace up? Energy to argue with your partner again?)

I love looking in the camera without trying to find the right angle to hide my three chins.

Weirdly, my Amazon addiction has stopped too.

Anything you wish someone had told you at the start?

(Newbies, take notes.)

That there’s no shame in getting a little extra help. Ignore the people that say it’s cheating and anyone can lose weight without them. Seriously, do they take people for idiots?

What’s your take on the whole easy way out chat – and have you adjusted your lifestyle too – fitness/nutrition etc.?

(Be honest. It helps our readers cope.)

We’re all just doing our best and it’s nothing to do with anyone else and those Debbie Downers. 

My diet is completely different and I’m not reaching out for fatty and sugary foods. Plus, I don’t miss them at all. I’ve lost five stone (I was 20 stone, eek, but I am 6′ tall and that’s my excuse, haha) and I’m still losing weight.

What’s your next goal?

(Could be to run for a bus or dance at my daughter’s wedding – or come off the drugs and carry on with a lifestyle change – whatever matters to you.)

To sail past the Statue of Liberty on Queen Mary after knee replacement surgery.

I’d like to come off the drugs in six months and will possibly try hypnotherapy to support this.

Finally – give us your one-liner SlimrChat wisdom?

(What would you write on a Post-it for the next person starting out?)

It’s your life and do what’s best for you!

Are you inspired by Wendy’s journey like we are? Have a look at Lozzii, Laura, Emily, Katie and Jen’s journeys.