An Oldham man who survived a heart attack and later developed a pre-diabetic condition has lost four stone and reversed his diagnosis through the NHS Healthier You programme, inspiring local residents to take control of their health.

Terry Blinco, a 47-year-old from Oldham, suffered a heart attack in August 2023 and underwent treatment involving two heart stents. The experience took a heavy toll on his mental health, leading to a year-long period where he rarely left his room, during which he gained five stone and became pre-diabetic.

Terry is now sharing his story during Type 2 Diabetes Prevention Week, which runs from 25 to 31 May, in the hope of encouraging others across Oldham and Greater Manchester to make small but lasting changes to their lifestyles.

“Following the heart attack, I had a mental breakdown and refused to leave my room for 12 months due to the fear of having another heart attack,” Terry said. “During this time, I gained five stone and became pre diabetic.”

It was routine blood tests in December 2024 that identified Terry as being at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, prompting him to join the NHS Healthier You programme. Initially hesitant, he admitted: “My thoughts revolved around ‘I don’t need telling what to do, I can cook most of my meals from scratch and I can’t exercise due to my heart condition’ therefore this is going to be a waste of mine and their time.”

Support from family members persuaded him to continue, and after discussions with his cardiologist, Terry began making gradual changes. He introduced light exercise, started checking food labels, and tracked his calorie intake. “The weight slowly started to come off,” he said. “After about seven sessions people started to notice the changes in me. Not just the weight loss, but also my confidence.”

Terry has since lost four stone, improved his mental wellbeing, and is no longer considered pre diabetic. His turnaround comes as a powerful example for others in Oldham who may be facing similar health challenges.

Claire Lake, from the NHS Healthier You programme, said: “We hope that Terry’s story will show everyone out there that continuous small changes to their lifestyle can make a big difference to their lives and health, that will ultimately prevent Type 2 diabetes and other health conditions.”

NHS Greater Manchester reports that around 250,000 people across the region are currently considered pre diabetic and could benefit from support programmes like Healthier You. Since 2019, more than 37,000 people have started the programme across Greater Manchester, including participants from Oldham.

For local residents looking to improve their health, the programme offers free support, including personalised advice on diet, physical activity, and weight management. Terry’s story highlights that even after a serious health scare, positive changes are possible with the right support and perseverance.