Cole Prochaska from South Carolina has gained viral attention for sharing his incredible weight loss journey online, achieved entirely through lifestyle changes. In a 2023 interview with TODAY, Prochaska revealed that he once weighed 585 pounds, the highest his scale could measure, equivalent to the weight of three average men. At his heaviest, it’s estimated he consumed around 5,000 calories daily.
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“I felt pretty bad,” Prochaska shared with TODAY. “I always put on a happy exterior because that’s what a lot of bigger people do. But deep down, I was pretty lonely. You avoid going out because you worry about fitting into chairs, walking long distances, or even what you’re going to wear.”
Determined to change his life, Prochaska embraced a healthier lifestyle. He began walking at least 10,000 steps daily, hitting the gym three times a week for weightlifting, and following a protein-rich diet. After two years of dedication, without relying on weight-loss drugs or surgery, Prochaska now maintains a weight of around 226 pounds.
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Although Prochaska says he’s never felt better, his incredible weight loss has left him with excess loose skin, which has become a source of insecurity. In 2023, he launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for surgery to remove the excess skin. Despite his apprehension, he decided to share shirtless photos to inspire others and showcase how far he’s come. “I needed to show everybody all the skin I have and how far I’ve come, and just embrace it,” he told TODAY. “And that’s what I did.”
By 2024, Prochaska’s GoFundMe had raised over $75,000 from more than 2,000 supporters. He continues to share updates on his journey through Instagram, aiming to reach his $100,000 goal to cover the costs of multiple surgeries.
