Teachers inspire us in many ways and primary school teacher, Chrystel is no different. Except it’s not just her lessons that are inspiring children, it’s her astonishing weight loss journey.

Before joining Smile as a supply teacher in 2015, Chrystel held a permanent teaching position at a school in Birmingham but wanted more of a work-life balance. She had also been recently diagnosed with poly cystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) which had an effect on her health. PCOS is a condition which affects how a woman’s ovaries work and affects around 1 in 5 women in the UK. 

While there is no cure for PCOS, the symptoms can be treated. One of the treatments, for those who are overweight, is losing weight and eating a healthy balanced diet. Which is exactly what Chrystel decided to do! 

So, after she left her full-time permanent teaching job, Chrystel joined Smile and tried her hand at supply teaching. Supply teaching jobs offer a lot more flexibility than permanent teaching posts as you can choose the days and hours to suit your lifestyle. This gave Chrystel more opportunity to exercise and plan meals.

Slowly but surely the hard work began to pay off. Chrystel has now lost a whopping 10 stone - a whole other person! In fact, Chrystel looked so different that when she returned home to France, her father didn’t recognise her at the airport. She’s not yet through though and has plans to slim down even further in order to reach her goal weight.

But of course, it’s not all about looks. Having known Chrystel for four years now, we can really see a difference in her as a person. She’s happier and more confident which is lovely to see. Chrystel’s mind and body transformation has inspired staff at one of her regular schools to start their own weight loss journey too. So, watch this space for more updates.

On behalf of everyone at Smile, keep up the great work Chrystel. We are all so proud of you and look forward to your continued transformation.