A STRANGER changed my life

Lorraine Kerr, 56, is proof that Dr Michael Mosley's healthy eating legacy lives on

- WORDS: SARAH VENESS

For many, their weight loss journey begins with an upsetting photograph or an embarrassing moment, but mine began with the death of a stranger. I was on the Greek island of Symi as part of an island-hopping holiday in June last year, just days before TV doctor and nutritionist Dr Michael Mosley tragically died there. His sudden and devastatingly untimely death compelled me to finally take action after years of comfort eating that had set me on the path towards pre-diabetes.

When I heard the news of Dr Mosley's death, I was shocked and saddened – not least because I had been to the island he died on just days before with my husband Nick, 66. I'd always admired Dr Mosley's work from afar, and listened regularly to his podcasts. His weight-loss programme, The Fast 800, really appealed to me, but I'd never found the strength to make the leap and join. However, as I watched the TV reports of his tragic passing, I made a promise to myself – I would join the programme in his honour, and finally take action to improve my own health. His passing showed me that life is precious – and it was time for me to make the most of mine.