A woman from South Shields, Elliemay Sherwin, has dramatically transformed her life by losing over 14 stone after facing significant health challenges and personal obstacles. At her heaviest, she weighed 24 stone 10 pounds and wore a size 24. Doctors informed her that she would likely never be able to have children unless she lost weight, a revelation that profoundly impacted her life choices.
At just 24 years old, Elliemay was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, conditions that contributed to her struggle with weight. Determined to change her circumstances, she underwent a NHS gastric bypass in July 2024. Since the surgery, she has lost an impressive 14 stone, bringing her weight down to 10 stone 6 pounds.
“I felt like my purpose of being a woman had been taken away from me,” Elliemay shared. “When I was told I couldn’t have kids, it really scared me.” This revelation propelled her to make significant lifestyle changes. Previously reliant on junk food and sugary drinks, she has since learned to prioritize healthier options that keep her fuller for longer. Following her weight loss, she recently discovered that her ovarian health has improved, enabling her to consider starting a family with her partner, Niall, when the time is right.
Despite her significant weight loss, Elliemay faced new challenges with loose skin, which affected her confidence. In December 2025, she opted for a tummy tuck in Lithuania, costing £5,000, during which she had six pounds of excess skin removed. Reflecting on the experience, she stated, “When it came to surgery, I did shed a few tears as I was saying goodbye to a part of me that I hated for so long. But it’s the best thing I have ever done.”
Now at a size six, Elliemay revels in the newfound freedom of shopping and dressing without anxiety. “I could never buy clothes in a shop before. Now I walk into any shop and I can just buy the item without even having to try them on,” she explained. Her transformation has also altered her social interactions. “I used to think when I walked into a room, people would call me names so I would just stay at home. Now I like being out and about. I love having my picture taken.”
Elliemay’s journey began at a young age. She joined Slimming World when she was just nine years old and later explored various diets, including extreme calorie restriction and using diet pills. She admits that her relationship with food has been complicated. “I think I was always given bigger portions as a child and not the healthiest options. As a teenager, I hated my weight and would try crazy diets,” she recalled.
Throughout her childhood, Elliemay faced bullying and harsh comments about her weight. “I was told by a friend that I would be the prettiest out of our group if I lost weight. That’s always stuck with me,” she said. Such comments led her to develop unhealthy habits, including hiding her eating and avoiding social situations.
Since her transformation, Elliemay has encountered both support and skepticism. Even her grandmother struggled to recognize her during a recent shopping trip. “I waved at her and she just looked at me. It wasn’t until I was in her face when she realized who I was,” she recounted. The dramatic change in her appearance has led to mixed reactions, with some individuals who once ridiculed her now expressing interest.
Looking ahead, Elliemay and Niall plan to travel, including a potential move to Australia, before starting a family. “We want to see the world before starting a family,” she said. Her journey highlights not only a remarkable physical transformation but also a profound shift in self-esteem and aspirations. Elliemay is now driven by a sense of confidence and purpose, excited about the future and the possibilities it holds.
