A Coventry woman who gained 10 stone due to a rare medical condition has shared her inspiring story of determination and recovery, after losing all the weight through lifestyle changes.
Hannah Mai, 37, began experiencing rapid weight gain at age 30, ballooning from her usual nine stone to over 20 stone within two and a half years. Despite numerous visits to doctors, her concerns were often dismissed as hormonal changes or pregnancy. “I knew there was something wrong with me,” Hannah recalled, “but people around me thought I had just changed my diet.”
After waking up one morning with a hunched back and researching her symptoms, Hannah suspected she had Cushing’s disease—a rare condition caused by high cortisol levels, often due to a pituitary tumor. She brought her findings to her doctor, and after an MRI and blood tests at University Hospital Coventry & Warwickshire, her diagnosis was confirmed in October 2020.
In February 2021, Hannah underwent brain surgery to remove the tumor. She was prescribed steroids to manage her health, which made weight loss even more challenging. “It wasn’t easy to lose weight while I was still on steroids,” she said, “but as soon as I came off them, I knew my body was getting better.”
Once off medication, Hannah committed to a healthier lifestyle. She adopted a high-protein, low-carb diet rich in vegetables, and eliminated sugar, dairy, and gluten after being diagnosed with celiac disease. Most importantly, she practiced Pilates every day, which helped her regain strength and mobility.
Within two years, Hannah lost 10 stone, dropping from a size 26 to a size 10—returning to her pre-illness self. “Once I started losing the weight, I just kept going,” she said. “It isn’t easy—you really have to push yourself and focus on who you want to be.”
Hannah’s journey highlights the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, especially when symptoms are dismissed. Her story also demonstrates that significant health transformations are possible with persistence, the right diagnosis, and sustainable lifestyle changes.
Listen to your body: If you notice unexplained changes, keep seeking answers.
Seek professional support: Don’t hesitate to ask for referrals or second opinions.
Adopt a balanced diet: Focus on high-quality proteins, vegetables, and minimize processed foods.
Find enjoyable exercise: Consistency matters more than intensity—Pilates or daily movement can make a big difference.
Celebrate progress: Acknowledge each milestone to stay motivated.
Hannah is proud of her achievements but remains mindful of her health. “I am always worried the weight will come back,” she admits, “but I feel so much happier and healthier now.” Her story is a powerful reminder that, with determination and the right support, even the toughest health challenges can be overcome.
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