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Gym will fix it for our family

Adam Derbyshire
15/ 3/2007

IT'S been a tough week for our Fight the Flab campaign family - the Laidlers - after youngest son Ben was struck down by a mystery stomach bug.

The 11 year old has been eating healthily along with mum Sandra, 45, dad Ian, 48 and big brother Adrian, 21.

But he has been eased off the strict diet until he recovers from the bout of illness which has kept him off school for a fortnight.

Sandra, of Furness Avenue, Ashton said: "He's been in agony with stomach cramps.

"We took him to Tameside Hospital last week but the doctors couldn't find anything wrong with him.

"He's been really keen to lose weight and has been doing so well. But his SATs are coming up at school so that's a stressful time for him too."

Despite Ben's sickness, the Laidlers have enjoyed an active week, swimming, playing badminton and taking part in lifestyle classes at Ashton baths and Oxford Park.

Sandra added: "We've each lost another two pounds this week. Adrian is making a huge effort. He played badminton for two hours and is now just three pounds off hitting his target weight and losing two stone.

"Meanwhile I swam 16 lengths in the pool which is an achievement considering I was struggling to complete ten at the beginning.

"I'm determined to swim 20 by the end of the week.

"I have dropped two sizes in my swimming costume now and my confidence has rocketed."

Ian, who has struggled to exercise because of a long-term injury, is set to go in the gym tonight (Thursday) with the sports physio to work on his knee.

He said: "It's great news. They are going to strap it up and if I build up my muscle I should be back to full fitness within five sessions."