Imagine a life where simple activities like climbing stairs leave you breathless. That was James Garner's reality. At his heaviest, he tipped the scales at a staggering 26 stone, a weight that not only impacted his physical abilities but also cast a dark shadow over his health and family life.

The consequences of his weight gain were severe. He developed sleep apnoea, a condition characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep. This frightening ailment left his wife, Jenni, constantly worried, fearing that he might one day simply stop breathing in his sleep.

Sleep apnoea isn't just a minor inconvenience; it's a serious health risk. The repeated pauses in breathing can lead to a host of complications, including high blood pressure, heart problems, and even stroke. For James, it was a wake-up call, a stark reminder that his lifestyle was putting his life in jeopardy.

One particularly alarming incident served as the turning point. Jenni found James "choking" in his sleep, unable to wake him. The sheer panic and helplessness she felt that night underscored the urgency of the situation. James realized he needed to take immediate action, not just for himself, but for his loved ones.

Beyond the physical toll, James's weight was impacting his family. He has three children, Kayden, Izzy, and Asher, and the thought of not being around to see them grow up weighed heavily on his mind. He knew his deteriorating health was affecting his relationship with them, and he desperately wanted to be a more present and active father.

In January 2023, James made a life-altering decision. He resolved to confront his weight issues and reclaim his health. This wasn't just about shedding pounds; it was about transforming his lifestyle and securing a future for himself and his family.

His journey began with joining his local Slimming World group. Slimming World focuses on "food optimising," a plan that empowers individuals to make healthier food choices without feeling restricted. It's about understanding nutrition and developing sustainable eating habits.

James had to "relearn" how to eat, breaking free from years of unhealthy habits. He started by cutting out fast food, a significant step considering his reliance on it. This wasn't about deprivation; it was about replacing calorie-dense, nutrient-poor options with wholesome, satisfying alternatives.

His initial goal was simply to gain control of his eating habits, but as the weight began to come off, something remarkable happened: his entire life started to change. He experienced a surge in energy, improved mood, and a renewed sense of confidence.

Before, James would often skip breakfast, grab processed or fried foods for lunch, and rely on takeaways for dinner. His new eating plan involved preparing home-cooked meals using fresh ingredients. He discovered a love for cooking and found joy in creating healthy, flavorful dishes.

Now, instead of grabbing quick and unhealthy snacks, James prepares hearty meals like homemade curries and roast dinners. He also embraces meal prepping, ensuring he has nutritious and satisfying options available even during long workdays. This proactive approach prevents him from resorting to unhealthy convenience foods.

One of the most rewarding aspects of his transformation is the opportunity to cook with his children. By involving them in the process, he's instilling healthy habits that will benefit them for years to come. He's not just changing his own life; he's shaping the well-being of his entire family.

Four months into his journey, James had already shed four stone. This success fueled his motivation to incorporate exercise into his routine. He started small, walking with his children and incorporating short walks during his lunch breaks.

Initially, even a short walk around the block felt like a marathon. But consistency is key. By gradually increasing his activity level, James transformed exercise from a daunting chore into an enjoyable part of his daily routine. He discovered the joy of movement and the invigorating benefits of physical activity.

After a year and a half of dedication, James reached his target weight of 12 stone. He had not only transformed his body but also his mindset. He felt healthier, more energetic, and more confident than he had in years.

James even considered weight loss injections as an option before discovering Slimming World. He believes they can be beneficial for some individuals, but emphasizes the importance of pairing them with proper nutrition. Relying solely on injections without addressing underlying eating habits can lead to dependency and long-term health issues.

Reaching 12 stone has had a profound impact on every aspect of James's life. He now enjoys weekend bike rides with his children and can spend all day on his feet without feeling exhausted. Being an active and engaged father is incredibly important to him.

He's also incorporated regular sessions with a personal trainer, pushing his fitness to new levels. He feels stronger, fitter, and more energized than ever before. Exercise is now an integral part of his lifestyle, helping him maintain his weight loss and overall well-being.

James's dedication and inspiring transformation have earned him the title of Slimming World's Man of the Year 2025. He was nominated by fellow members of his Littleport Slimming World group and then selected as the national winner. This recognition is a testament to his hard work and the positive impact he's had on others.

His weight loss journey has also ignited his confidence to pursue his passion for comedy. He co-founded a stand-up comedy business called Chuckl with his partner Harrison Salter. Chuckl has quickly become the UK's largest comedy agency, showcasing up-and-coming comedians.

Before losing weight, James lacked the physical and mental stamina to fully dedicate himself to his business. The long hours, travel, and late nights felt impossible. Now, he thrives on the energy and excitement of the comedy world.

His improved health and confidence have allowed him to fully invest in Chuckl. He spends evenings researching new acts and liaising with venues, tasks that would have been too exhausting before his transformation. He's now able to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams with passion and energy.

Sharon Heaps, who runs the Littleport Slimming World group that James attends, praises his honesty and humor, noting that he's an invaluable asset to the group, inspiring others on their own weight loss journeys.