Pauline Bliss with bags of clothes donated by local members of Slimming World.

Shedding pounds and spreading kindness

In a heartwarming display of generosity, determination, and community spirit, members of Slimming World groups from Athlone and Moate have come together for a cause that stretches far beyond the scales.

Their recent participation in the Big Slimming World Clothes Throw not only marked a celebration of their personal weight loss journeys, but it also delivered a powerful message of hope and support to those battling cancer.

The initiative saw members donating the clothes they had "slimmed out of forever" — garments that no longer fit, because of the hard-earned progress they’ve made toward a healthier life.

The result? A staggering 524 bags of clothing were collected, each one a symbol of transformation and community goodwill. More importantly, these donations are expected to raise an incredible €13,100 for the Irish Cancer Society — a contribution that will go directly towards supporting cancer patients and funding vital research.

Did you know that losing just 10% of your body weight can significantly reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even some types of cancer? This makes the journey these Slimming World members are on even more powerful — it's not just about appearance, but about long-term health, vitality, and prevention.

If you’ve been thinking about making a change, there’s no better time to start. Come and join one of the local Slimming World groups and take back control of your health, your wellness, and your life. With the support of an uplifting community and a plan that really works, you'll be surrounded by people who understand your goals and will cheer you on every step of the way.

In times when good news can feel hard to come by, it’s stories like this that remind us of the power of community. Behind every bag is a person who committed to change, and chose to turn that change into something greater than themselves. This event is not just about clothes or fundraising — it's about resilience, generosity, and solidarity.