Fleetwood firefighter sheds 12 stone to achieve dream career

Lee Bioletti, based at Fleetwood Fire Station, was 27 stone before the first UK lockdown and needed to make a drastic change if he wanted to achieve his wish of becoming a firefighter.

Swapping his unhealthy eating habits, which included regular takeaways, two breakfasts a day and constant snacks, for much healthier meals including chicken, rice and vegetables, Lee also started running regularly in a car park close to his house.

Lee Bioletti before losing weight (Image: The Fire Fighters Chartiy)

After making these changes the 27-year-old saw the weight begin to drop. He hit his weight loss target and also joined Lancashire Fire and Rescue six months ago.

He said: “I always dreamed of becoming a firefighter. Everyone told me I would never do it and I would never be the weight to do it – I guess that motivated me.

“I’ve now lost 12.5 stone since lockdown. I remember having my last appointment with my doctor and being weighed.

“I think I’d been in a bit of a bubble until then and hadn’t realised how far I had come. I got back in my car and I cried. I couldn’t believe it – I’d done it.

“I did it myself, no-one helped me. I went from 6XL to a large in clothes. It’s helped my mental health dramatically too.”

Lee Bioletti before (left) and after losing weight (Image: The Fire Fighters Charity)

Hoping to push himself with a new challenge and is now training for the Lakesman Half Ironman Triathlon next June.

This challenge consists of a 1.2 mile swim, 56 miles on a bike and a half marathon. He hopes to raise as much money as he can for The Fire Fighters Charity, which helps members of the UK's fire services community to live healthier and happier.

Lee said: “Knowing now that the charity is there for me if I ever need it is amazing… it sounds awful but firefighting is a job where I might not come home.

“Knowing my partner has the charity there for her too is fantastic. This charity needs support, it’s relying on donations, so I just thought, ‘what can I do, however small?’

“I had a couple of friends that were firefighters and sadly they’re no longer here. It brings home how important it is to have that support net there for you and your family.”

Lee Bioletti after losing weight (Image: The Fire Fighters Charity)

Lee also hopes his journey will inspire others.

He said: “If you need help, ask for help. Men in particular don’t do that enough. Remember this process takes time and hard work, but believe in yourself and set goals, have a dream and aim for it.

“Don't let people put you down, celebrate the small goals even if it's a few pounds, that's a huge achievement. Be proud, and trust me it will all fall into place.”