Christine Wynter has fought more than her share of battles but is now facing life with a positive attitude and a smile.

The Phillip Island resident of over 30 years has turned her life around with the help of staff from YMCA Phillip Island and Melaleuca Lodge over the past 12 months, losing around 40 kilograms and ending her dependence on a walking frame and stick for mobility.

She has regained confidence, both physically and socially, and is an example of someone who has received help and then learned to help herself.

Christine, who was morbidly obese and in poor health suffering from a number of ailments after being housebound for more than 20 years, moved to accommodation at Melaleuca Lodge after her mother passed away and father was incapacitated by the effects of a stroke.

Lodge nursing staff member Blaxenka Satalrch recognised that Christine, who has a mild handicap and at 54 was many years younger than most of the other elderly residents, needed to lose weight and regain some independence.

She helped coordinate and raise funds to support Christine who undertook an exercise program at YMCA Phillip Island.

“It took some motivation and encouragement but then she started losing weight and was very excited,” said Blaxenka.

Christine was assisted by YMCA Health and Wellness Instructor Michele Williamson who, as a former neighbour, knew Christine and had been familiar with her personal situation for many years.

“We just started with some very basic exercise and movement to get Christine interested but she loved it and really stuck to it,” said Michele.

“The transformation in her health and also her emotional and social wellbeing has been wonderful. She is always smiling and is not treated like a person who can’t do things for herself anymore.”

Christine is transported to the health club by staff at the lodge and YMCA members also go out of their way to provide transport when needed.

Michele said that Christine had become a familiar face at the YMCA and also now enjoyed socialising with members with whom she had become friends outside the Centre.

“She is such a lovely person and so many people at the Y have helped her and included her in their social activities,” she said.

“Christine can now walk down the street in Cowes without any assistance and people will say ‘hello’ and have a chat. That’s something we all take for granted but it’s pretty special for her.”

Michele added that Christine was a great example to all of what can be achieved with support and perseverance, together with good advice.

“We hear a lot about fads and quick weigh losses but Christine stuck to the two important basic things-diet and exercise-and continues to do it. You only have to look at the results.”