How the world’s heaviest man lost over 500 kilogrammes
Khalid bin Mohsen Shaari, once known as the world’s heaviest man, has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding a staggering 542 kilogrammes with the assistance of Saudi Arabia’s former King Abdullah.
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Shaari, who once tipped the scales at 610 kilograms, now weighs just 63 kilogrammes, marking a historic and life-altering journey.
For years, Shaari was bedridden, unable to move due to his excessive weight. His condition worsened over time, rendering him completely dependent on his family for even the most basic needs. His immobility and deteriorating health became a matter of grave concern, not just for his family but for the wider community.
In 2013, his plight caught the attention of King Abdullah, who personally intervened to ensure that Shaari received the medical care he desperately needed. The King’s intervention was a turning point in Shaari’s life, setting in motion a comprehensive medical plan aimed at saving him.
The plan, devised under the King’s directive, involved a team of 30 medical professionals dedicated to Shaari’s case. To facilitate his treatment, a specially designed bed and a forklift were used to transport Shaari from his home in Jazan to King Fahad Medical City in Riyadh. This marked the beginning of his arduous but ultimately successful journey to recovery.
One of the key components of Shaari’s treatment was gastric bypass surgery, a procedure that significantly reduced his food intake and helped jumpstart his weight loss. Alongside the surgery, Shaari was put on a tailored diet and subjected to a rigorous exercise regimen. The combination of these efforts led to dramatic results.
In the first six months alone, Shaari lost nearly half of his body weight. This initial success was bolstered by extensive physiotherapy and intensive care, which helped him regain some mobility and significantly improve his overall health. However, the journey was far from over, as Shaari faced the challenge of dealing with the excess skin left behind by such a massive weight loss.
By 2023, Shaari’s weight had reduced to 63.5 kilograms, but he had to undergo multiple surgeries to remove the excess skin. This step was crucial not only for his physical appearance but also for his overall well-being, as excess skin can cause significant discomfort and health issues.
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Excess skin removal surgery is a common procedure for individuals who experience dramatic weight loss. It allows the skin to adapt to the new body shape and helps the patient lead a more comfortable life post-transformation. For Shaari, this was the final step in his incredible journey from being bedridden to regaining his independence.
Today, Khalid bin Mohsen Shaari is affectionately known as "The Smiling Man," a nickname given to him by the medical staff who witnessed his extraordinary transformation. His journey is not just a testament to the power of medical intervention but also to the human spirit's resilience in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Shaari’s story has inspired many, showing that with the right support and determination, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome. His transformation, made possible by King Abdullah’s compassion and the dedication of his medical team, remains one of the most remarkable weight loss journeys in history.