Gemma Collins has shared a new throwback photo from her 20s, showing off her slim figure before being diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
The 39 year old, who recently said she was so happy she "could cry" after reuniting with her beau James Argent, took to her Instagram stories to post the incredible snap, which sees the star posing in nothing but a little strapless leopard print bikini, fresh out of the water.
The reality star also shared a second throwback snap from before she found fame on The Only Way Is Essex as she could be seen in fancy dress, wearing a white bra and shorts with tights and a halo.
Earlier this week Gemma opened up on her battle with PCOS, which she said caused her to gain weight over the years.
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Sharing a photo of herself from her 20s, the star revealed she was "very slim" in the picture as she donned a gorgeous black and purple summer dress while posing in front of a swimming pool.
In the caption, Gemma discussed her condition, which causes symptoms like irregular periods, facial hair and difficulty getting pregnant.
"As you can see guys when I was in my 20s I was very slim then I was told I had PCOS and it’s been a struggle ever since however I make the most of myself and remain positive because it’s what in your heart counts the most," [sic] she told her 1.8million followers alongside three heart emojis.
The reality star, who recently beamed as she picked up a takeaway from her favourite seafood restaurant, continued by giving those who suffer from PCOS a little pep talk.
She wrote: "sending love to all the PCOS sufferers it’s not easy and always be kind people people are not always over weight because of all the stereo typical bullying comments !!!" [sic]
Reflecting on her own experience of being bullied by others, the blonde beauty explained that she overcame her obstacles by staying true to herself.
"I CHOSE to RISE ABOVE and continued to promote body confidence even when I had my own personal struggles and the secret to my success was just being ME ! [sic]
"Lots of people have bullied me taunted me and also early on in the industry loose weight Your too fat to promote my brand !!! It’s endless !!! Cough cough .... where are you people now WHERE AM I RISE HIGHER always BELIEVE IN YOU [sic]
"my heart has always been the same no matter of my size," [sic] she ended, alongside a pink heart emoji.
Celebrity friends of the star were quick to comment on the post as Joey Essex replied with a simple red heart emoji, 100 emoji and stars emoji while Megan McKenna posted a red heart emoji and a celebration hands emoji.
Gemma Collins
Celebrity friends of the star were quick to comment on the post as Joey Essex replied with a simple red heart emoji, 100 emoji and stars emoji while Megan McKenna posted a red heart emoji and a celebration hands emoji.
Another said: "Really inspirational for all of us who struggle with PCOS," with two red heart emojis.
While a third added: "I love this! I have pcos and it’s really hard people presume too much! We can rise above love your brand and you," [sic] alongside a muscular arm emoji and a pink heart emoji.
