Just four years ago, Cole Prochaska weighed over 585 pounds—more than his scale could measure. Living off a 5,000-calorie-a-day diet and a sedentary lifestyle since childhood, his health and confidence were at an all-time low. But when his long-term relationship began to fall apart, he realized it was time to change—if not for the relationship, then for himself.
Starting with short walks and a commitment to “just keep moving,” the 41-year-old from Florida eventually built up to walking 10,000 steps a day. He overhauled his diet, cutting out junk food, counting calories, and switching to a high-protein plan. His dedication paid off: by 2023, he had lost about 360 pounds.
Though proud, Prochaska struggles with the excess skin left behind. “I’ve never walked on a beach without a shirt,” he says. Now raising funds for skin removal surgery, he’s shared his story online to inspire others.
“I’m living proof,” he says. “Keep going, keep walking… you can do it.”