Just four years ago, Cole Prochaska admitted he “weighed as much as three men.” Today, at 41, after swapping his 5,000-calorie-a-day diet for sneakers and determination, he proudly says he’s now “the size of one person.”
In 2021, the Florida man didn’t even know his exact weight—his scale topped out at 585 pounds. Overweight since age six, he led a sedentary lifestyle and consumed massive amounts of food daily. His diet often included multiple bags of chips, a 12-pack of soda, five cheeseburgers, or even a whole pizza—averaging 5,000 calories per day.
“I felt awful,” Prochaska said. “I’d put on a happy face, but I was lonely. I avoided going out because I worried about chairs, walking distances, or even what to wear.” Shortness of breath made exercising impossible.
When his seven-year relationship began to end, he realized it was time for change. “I didn’t save the relationship, but I saved myself,” he reflected.
Step by Step
His transformation started small—short walks around the block. Gradually, walking became a daily habit, and today he logs at least 10,000 steps a day. He also revamped his diet, eliminating sweets, snacks, and sugary drinks, focusing on water, high-protein meals, and later, gym workouts. “It was just me deciding this was it—this was going to be a life change,” he said.
Still “Trapped”
By 2023, Prochaska had shed roughly 360 pounds, but excess skin still hid his incredible progress. On his GoFundMe page seeking $100,000 for skin-removal surgery, he wrote, “Three to One. I once weighed as much as three men, now I’m one person… It’s hard to share shirtless pictures, but I’ve come so far.” So far, he’s raised $81,226.
“I’ve never walked on a beach without a shirt or gone to a pool party uncovered. I’m still trapped by this extra skin,” he admitted.
Inspiring Others
Supporters have flooded him with encouragement:
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“Absolutely inspiring! Good luck on your journey.”
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“I admire your dedication and perseverance.”
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“Your knees will thank you once you lose that extra skin!”
Recently, Prochaska flew to California to consult a plastic surgeon, aiming for surgery within three to six months.
His advice to others? “Keep going, keep walking… You can do it. I’m living proof.” Unlike some who turn to weight-loss drugs or surgery, Prochaska emphasizes that he achieved his transformation naturally: “No hate to anyone who chooses those routes, but you won’t be as healthy and happy as when you just put your head down and grind.”
