Gemma Greig, who is now a personal trainer, appeared on ITV’s ‘Losing Weight: Six Months to Save a Life’ back in 2019.
On the show, she spoke about her struggles with infertility and her desire to lose enough weight to be able to qualify for treatment to help her and her husband try to have a baby.
In total, Gemma lost 14 stone and reversed her type two diabetes diagnosis, and she is now using her own experiences to help others improve their physical and mental health.
Gemma said: “I struggled for so long with my mental health with my infertility.
“I felt like less of a woman for not being able to give my husband kids.”
She says that going on walks were integral to improving her mental health, and it is now something that she regularly does and really enjoys.
Gemma loves getting outdoors with family and friends, and says it has really benefitted her mental health. (Image: Gemma Greig)
Knowing this, she has now organised a women-only mental health walk at the Old Man of Coniston, one of her favourite places, in April next year.
This day will involve the option of a cold-water swim, as well as a walk to the top of the fell, however Gemma stresses that everyone is welcome to take part and do whatever they feel comfortable with.
She says the most important part of the event will be creating a community where women feel they can open up about any struggles they are experiencing, including loneliness, depression, infertility or domestic abuse.
Gemma said: “I want to give people a safe space and healthy environment, as I know how valuable a good support network is.
“It’s such a community thing up the mountain, everyone is propping each other up.
“I can’t explain the euphoric feeling.”
The hope for Gemma is that this walk will be the beginning of many, to allow a community of women to form which will continue to grow.
To find out more about Gemma and the upcoming walk, visit: https://www.facebook.com/GGpushforward?rdid=ow6BO8PFhT8MhcSr&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1CLq4DaxZz%2F#