Mark has learning disability and Down syndrome diagnosis. He’s lived in his own flat at National Care Group’s Merry Den supported living in the Forest of Dean since 2013.

Mark lives a fulfilling, mostly independent life. He’s very sociable, loving, and friendly and is a loyal and caring friend to his neighbours.

In recent years, Mark had gotten into the habit of preferring microwave meals, rather than home cooked dishes. When he was told by his GP that he had high cholesterol levels, it worried him and so with the support of the team at Merry Den, he wanted to do something about it. He decided for 2022 to make it his new year’s resolution to change his diet, something the doctor said would help.

Mark before his weight loss journey

Mark made the decision to join the local Slimming World class where he was really encouraged at the weekly sessions. The Merry Den team worked with Mark to help him make some lifestyle changes; they supported him by sharing examples of the importance of a healthy and balanced diet, really getting Mark engaged. They encouraged him to start making his meals from scratch, sharing dish examples with him, and taking him on the meal preparation journey with them.

Mark began to really understand the importance of a nutritional diet. He started to make use of the slow cooker he has, and he was eventually happy for his Friday night takeaway treat to become fortnightly.

Things were going well, and right alongside the Merry Den team supporting Mark was his dearest friend and neighbour, Penny. With Mark having no family in contact with him, in his eyes, Penny was his best friend and family, and he loved her. Mark and Penny did most things together.

Tragically, in the summer of 2022 Penny unexpectedly passed away. Her sudden passing shocked and devastated all at Merry Den, but Mark especially was shattered and became withdrawn. The team were worried Mark would revert to his old dietary habits as a source of comfort so made it a priority to ensure he didn’t feel alone. They encouraged his neighbours to reciprocate the loyalty and care Mark had always shown them and so wanting to support him, they began inviting him for coffees, or meet ups in the communal garden.

Although still deeply saddened by the loss of Penny, Mark was soon reminded he had lots of friends and that he was so loved. He realised it was important for him to not lose sight of his goals and he continued his weight loss journey, attending his Slimming World classes - where he also made some great friends.

By the November Mark had lost over a stone in weight, which he was immensely proud of. Whilst he was happy to have lost the weight, he had also realised how much better he’d felt since changing his eating habits and was determined to maintain a healthier diet.

Mark proudly presenting his weight loss certificate

Mark went back to attending the local creative centre he’d been visiting for the past year or so. He’d been taking courses in drama, art, and circus skills and it had become one of his favourite activities. He’d also made a whole new circle of friends at the centre and had become known by all who attend.

Mark has an undeniable passion for drama now and it’s where his confidence is really shining through. He never fails to arrive early for his session – always so keen to get creative and share all the ideas he’s thought of since the previous session.

The new, lean Mark was given a real boost when he was chosen to be the face of the creative centre earlier this year. He beamed with pride seeing his picture on their website, social media, and flyers.

Mark became the face of his local creative centre

Life is good for Mark. He’s happy, healthy, he continues to be sociable and caring, and he knows he is loved by all those around him. He has lots to look forward to and he can’t wait until he’s immersing himself in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter on a much-anticipated visit to Warner Brothers Studio, near London. Did we forget to tell you? Mark LOVES Harry Potter!

We think Mark is incredible and we’re so proud of him!

Mark’s story is an example of the many people National Care Group support to change their lives through improved diets and ways of living.