When Diana Bunch first appeared on My 600-lb Life in 2017, she weighed 601 pounds, burdened by both physical ailments and emotional trauma. A Washington native battled lymphedema, which caused severe swelling. It also caused open sores that limited her mobility and intimacy. However, the emotional scars ran just as deep.
Diana said she used food to cope with childhood molestation and trauma. “I felt subhuman,” she confessed on the show, reflecting on the toll that both her weight and emotional pain had taken on her well-being. With her health rapidly deteriorating, she realized that change was necessary to reclaim her life.
Determined to change, Diana contacted Dr. Younan Nowzaradan (Dr. Now). He is a bariatric surgeon known for his tough-love approach. Moving to Houston, Texas, Diana embarked on an intense weight-loss journey-one that would change her life forever.
Way to go, Diana! What an accomplishment! 👏🏼 #my600lblife pic.twitter.com/ABUuZ8Ww8d
— N 💫 (@yestocroissants) June 7, 2018
My 600-lb Life: Achieving Weight Loss Success with Dr. Now’s Program
Despite her initial challenges, Diana Bunch gradually adapted to Dr. Now’s strict 1,200-calorie diet and exercise regimen. Her perseverance paid off. She qualified for gastric sleeve surgery. It would jump-start her progress.
However, Diana’s journey was not without setbacks. “The weight loss wasn’t easy,” she admitted, but her hard work ultimately paid off. Within 12 months, she shed over 260 pounds, significantly improving her mobility and mental health. Her emotional resilience stood out, proving that she was ready to make meaningful changes.
Diana Bunch’s story didn’t end with weight loss surgery. She continued working with Dr. Now to lose a total of 425 pounds, reaching an inspiring new weight of 180 pounds. By her update episode in My 600-lb Life: Where Are They Now?, she had successfully had knee replacement and skin removal surgeries. Dr. Now even gave her a rare piece of advice: “It’s time to stop losing weight. From now on, just maintain.”
Who's tuned in for Diana's story? #My600lbLife https://t.co/yu0uwkxtHH pic.twitter.com/yrZjbsTyCl
— TLC Network (@TLC) February 16, 2017
A New Beginning: Life After My 600-lb Life
After achieving her wellness goals, Diana Bunch returned to Washington and reunited with her family. Today, she enjoys a quieter lifestyle, focused on maintaining her health and spending time with loved ones. While she keeps a low profile on social media, her previous posts offer insight into her transformation.
Diana’s latest Facebook photo shows a big smile. A quote suggests she still seeks self-improvement. “I had no idea my life would change this dramatically,” she wrote in a post, expressing gratitude for the support she received along the way.
Her progress also shines through in her appearance. Diana has a medium-length haircut and a defined jawline. She looks like a new person. She has lost weight and shed emotional baggage.
Diana is determined to turn her life around! Follow her remarkable journey today during the #My600lbLife marathon starting at 12pm. pic.twitter.com/xAjcKz99Sq
— TLC Network (@TLC) April 8, 2020
Why Diana Won’t Return to My 600-lb Life
Unlike many former My 600-lb Life participants, Diana reached her weight-loss goals during her time on the show. As a result, she has no plans to return for additional updates. “I have nothing but good things to say about my experience,” Diana said. “But there’s nothing more to cover.”
Her parting message to fans was heartfelt: “If my story encourages just one of you to take steps toward better health, then it was all worth it.” Diana’s decision to step away from the spotlight reflects her desire to focus on living her best life without the pressures of reality TV.