From 1,345 Pounds to 139 Pounds: The Remarkable Journey of Khalid bin Mohsen Shaari
In an extraordinary feat of medical science and human determination, Khalid bin Mohsen Shaari, once the world’s heaviest man alive, has shed an astonishing 1,195 pounds (542 kg), thanks to the intervention of Saudi Arabia’s former King Abdullah. Shaari, who initially tipped the scales at 1,345 pounds (610 kg), now weighs a mere 139 pounds (63 kg).
A Life-altering transformation
Shaari spent over three years confined to his bed due to his extreme weight, and his health deteriorated as he grew increasingly dependent on his family for basic needs. His life took a dramatic turn when King Abdullah took notice of his plight in 2013 and pledged to provide comprehensive medical care.
Royal intervention: A medical masterplan
King Abdullah’s intervention led to the creation of an elaborate medical plan, executed by a dedicated team of 30 medical professionals. Shaari was transported from his home in Jazan to King Fahad Medical City in Riyadh using a specially designed bed and forklift, underscoring the severity of his condition.
The road to recovery: Here’s how he did it
The cornerstone of Shaari’s treatment included a gastric bypass surgery, a meticulously tailored diet, and a rigorous exercise regimen. The first six months of his treatment involved extensive physiotherapy and intensive care, resulting in a dramatic reduction of nearly half his body weight.
Surgical interventions for excess skin
By 2023, Shaari’s weight had plummeted to 139 pounds (63.5 kg). However, the drastic weight loss left him with excess skin, necessitating multiple surgeries for its removal. Such procedures are common for individuals who undergo significant weight loss, helping their skin adapt to their new body shape.
A new identity
Shaari’s remarkable transformation earned him the affectionate nickname “The Smiling Man” from the medical staff who witnessed his journey. His story is not just one of weight loss but a testament to the power of medical intervention and human resilience.
Shaari’s journey from being bedridden to reclaiming his life serves as an inspiring narrative of hope, determination, and the profound impact of compassionate healthcare.