56-year-old Jamil Khan is a lifelong Bradford resident, NHS professional of 25 years and family man. Known for his easy going nature and busy lifestyle, Jamil’s days were once defined by low energy, poor sleep and fatigue rather than the enthusiasm his friends know today.
A year ago, Jamil’s work had become sedentary following the pandemic, his activity levels dropped, and his weight gradually increased to 125kg. While life carried on at pace, his health told a different story.
The challenge...
It was persistent insomnia that finally prompted Jamil to visit his GP. Fragmented sleep, migraines and exhaustion were beginning to impact every part of his life.
“I was having so many sleep issues – it was very broken. It began affecting me during the day; I couldn’t concentrate, and at weekends I’d crash.”
Blood tests revealed Jamil was at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes – a condition he had seen devastate friends and family.
“I’ve known people who lost limbs and then their lives to diabetes. Seeing how quickly things deteriorated frightened me. I knew I didn’t want that future.”
Living in Bradford, a city with the highest diabetes prevalence in the UK and a large South Asian population at heightened risk, Jamil knew action was essential.
Our support...
Determined to make changes without medication, Jamil joined Healthier You: the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.
“I didn’t want pills. I wanted to make my own changes. I went in positively thinking, ‘I’ve got a chance here – and I’m going to take it.’”
Over nine months, Jamil attended monthly sessions at his local community centre, gradually introducing small, manageable changes.
“After every session, I implemented just one thing. And from that one thing, I’d see results.”
Supported by his Healthier You coach, Jamil reviewed his habits, simplified his diet, increased gentle movement, and made small but impactful changes – including switching cooking oils.
“That was probably the smallest change with the biggest impact. My glucose levels and HbA1c dropped significantly within three months.”
This isn’t a weight-loss group; it’s a lifestyle change service. It’s about becoming internally healthier, not how you look on the outside.
What happened...
Now out of the prediabetes risk zone, Jamil feels lighter in every sense.
“My friends say, ‘Where’s this energy come from?’ I feel buzzy. My sleep is brilliant now, and I’m full of energy all day.”
With renewed motivation, Jamil has taken on new projects, including transforming his garden – something he never had the energy to do before.
“Healthier You gave me time for myself. I’m doing something for me – and life is better because of it.”
Inspired by his journey, Jamil has become a Healthier You Ambassador, encouraging others in his community to get checked and take control of their health.
“You just have to start somewhere. Make a few changes. Life will improve.”