Warning: This article contains discussion of suicide which some readers may find distressing.
Viewers of reality TV star Tammy Slaton were left astounded after she disclosed reaching a remarkable weight loss milestone.
Tammy gained popularity on TLC’s show 1000-Lb Sisters, which followed her and her sister Amy as they attempted to lose weight.
Weighing 725 pounds at her peak, Tammy required a walker and wheelchair for mobility and depended on an oxygen tube for breathing.
Her mental health suffered significantly, and she shared on TikTok in February: “I was bitter, unhappy, very super suicidal, depressed, and just mean.”
Her weight loss path has been fraught with challenges, including multiple stints in rehab for food addiction, where at one point, she weighed 15 pounds more than upon entry.
Last year, Tammy faced the devastating loss of her husband, Caleb Willingham, who passed away at the age of 40 in July 2023.
Despite these hurdles, Tammy has persisted, eventually losing enough weight to qualify for bariatric surgery to aid in her weight loss.
In the October 15 episode of 1,000-Lb Sisters, Tammy is seen attending a weigh-in with her bariatric surgeon, Dr. Eric Smith.
She shared with viewers: “The last time I saw Dr. Smith was about nine months ago and I was around 420 lbs. He told me I had to lose 100 lbs. before my next appointment. I’m extremely nervous.”
Fortunately, her worries were unfounded. Tammy now weighs less than half of her heaviest weight, coming in at 303.8 lbs—an astounding accomplishment.
Dr. Smith described Tammy’s progress as ‘unbelievable’, telling People: “Tammy has consistently demonstrated her dedication to making sustainable lifestyle changes to maximize the benefits of her surgery.”
“I’ve emphasized the importance of making small, daily adjustments to ensure not only her continued progress but also her long-term success. She’s truly committed to her health journey.”
He also mentioned that the next step for Tammy is skin removal surgery, which he hopes to arrange ‘sooner rather than later’ due to how her loose skin affects her quality of life.
Tammy’s supporters have flocked to Instagram to commend her, with one saying: “She has blown me away!! This truly shows you never give up! Tammy had an awful attitude before and bam, she changed! So proud of her honesty and struggles! Go girl!!”
Another commented: “I knew a strong-headed person like her could do it!! Great job Tammy! And great job to the doctors who never gave up!!!”
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty or a mental health crisis, support is available through Mental Health America. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can also contact the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.