Woman Loses 10 Stone Post-Pituitary Surgery Through Daily Pilates

Hannah Mai, 37, was diagnosed with Cushing's disease, a rare hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels, after gaining 10 stone over two and a half years. She underwent brain surgery to remove a pituitary tumour causing the condition and was on steroids to manage it. Once off steroids in April 2023, Hannah committed to losing the weight by eating high-protein meals and doing Pilates daily, successfully slimming from 20 stone 5lbs (size 26) to 10 stone 4lbs (size 10) within two years. Despite initial misdiagnoses and dismissal of her weight gain concerns by doctors, who often asked if she was pregnant or blamed hormones, Hannah persevered with her exercise regimen. She acknowledges that while medications like Ozempic can help others, she emphasizes the importance of personal determination and focus in her weight loss journey. Hannah's story highlights the challenges and triumphs of managing a rare disease and reclaiming health through lifestyle changes.