From Rare Illness to Incredible Transformation: How Hannah Lost 10 Stone
Hannah Mai’s life took an unexpected turn when a rare medical condition caused her weight to dramatically increase by 10 stone in just over two years. Now, at 37, she shares her inspiring journey of shedding that significant weight through determination, dietary changes, and one simple daily exercise, reclaiming her health and confidence.
At her heaviest, Hannah weighed 20 stone 5lbs and wore a size 26. This was a stark contrast to her usual weight of around nine stone. The rapid weight gain began when she turned 30, and despite seeking medical advice, her concerns were often dismissed. Like many facing complex health issues, her weight gain was initially attributed to common factors like hormonal changes or diet shifts, even leading to her being asked multiple times if she was pregnant. Hannah instinctively knew something more serious was wrong, but the lack of a clear diagnosis was frustrating.
Uncovering the Cause: Cushing’s Disease
The breakthrough came more than two years into her struggle, in October 2020, when Hannah developed a hunched back – a symptom she hadn’t experienced before. Her research led her to Cushing’s disease, a rare condition characterized by abnormally high levels of the hormone cortisol. Often, as in Hannah’s case, this is caused by a pituitary tumour. Recognising other symptoms she had been experiencing, including the significant weight gain, she presented her findings to her doctor, leading to a referral for tests.
An MRI scan and blood tests at the hospital confirmed the diagnosis of Cushing’s disease caused by a pituitary tumour. While receiving a diagnosis after years of uncertainty brought relief, it also came with fear about the road ahead.
The Path to Recovery and Weight Loss
Hannah underwent brain surgery in February 2021 to remove the tumour. Following the operation, she was prescribed steroids to help manage her condition. Losing weight proved particularly challenging while on the steroid medication. However, by April 2023, her health had improved, and she was gradually weaned off the steroids.
With the underlying cause addressed and off steroid treatment, Hannah felt ready to tackle the weight she had gained. Over the next two years, she committed to a rigorous personal weight loss program.
Her strategy combined focused dietary changes with consistent daily exercise:
Diet: She adopted a low-carb, high-protein diet rich in vegetables. She also eliminated sugar, dairy, and gluten after being diagnosed with celiac disease, further tailoring her eating plan to her health needs.
Exercise: Crucially, she committed to doing pilates every single day. This consistent, targeted movement was a cornerstone of her success.
Experts often highlight the benefits of core-strengthening exercises, similar to the principles found in pilates, not just for muscle tone but for overall bodily stability and support. Similarly, nutritional approaches focusing on controlled carbohydrate intake and adequate protein can significantly impact metabolism, helping the body utilise fat stores more effectively and contributing to sustainable weight loss. Hannah’s dedicated approach combined these powerful elements.
Celebrating Progress, Reflecting on the Past
Hannah’s dedication paid off remarkably. In just two years, she successfully shed 10 stone, returning to a weight of 10 stone 4lbs and fitting into a size 10 – close to her pre-illness self.
She expressed immense pride in her achievement, acknowledging the significant effort required. “It isn’t easy,” she shared, “you really have to push yourself, and focus on who you want to be.” While proud, she also admits a lingering concern that the weight could return.
Looking back at photos from her time at her heaviest evokes sadness about the struggles she faced due to Cushing’s disease. However, this reflection also reinforces how far she has come and fuels her pride in her resilience and successful transformation.
Hannah’s story is a powerful testament to overcoming the physical and emotional challenges posed by a rare condition and the incredible results achievable through informed effort and determination. She is currently raising money for The Pituitary Foundation, aiming to help others affected by similar conditions.
