Mike Meginness had it tough from the beginning. When we were introduced to him on season 10 of TLC’s “My 600-lb Life”, Mike was in a dark place both physically and emotionally. Weighing around 745 pounds, the 37-year-old Ohio native was living in his parents’ basement, struggling with daily activities we often take for granted. It was painful to see Mike having difficulty even ascending the stairs to the main part of the house. But what struck viewers was his lifetime of struggle with weight. Hitting the 100-pound mark at just 6 years old, it was evident that Mike’s issues weren’t just recent developments.
Mike had once found solace in football, where his size gave him a distinct advantage. In a life plagued by weight struggles and bullying, the sport was a ray of hope. But this optimism was short-lived as he faced a series of concussions that led to medical disqualification. This wasn’t just the end of his football career, but also led to the loss of his scholarship, forcing him to drop out of college. A series of unfortunate events, indeed.
Marriage and children brought temporary happiness, but they couldn’t fill the void left by his unfulfilled dreams and worsening eating habits. Eventually, his marriage broke down, adding another layer to his already complicated emotional state. Pressured by the impending divorce and limited access to his children, Mike reached a breaking point. The situation grew so dire that his wife couldn’t handle the stress of managing the household alone and finally asked for a divorce.
My 600-lb Life: Mike’s Transformation under Dr. Now
Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, affectionately known as Dr. Now, is the beacon of hope on “My 600-lb Life.” When Mike Meginness reached out to Dr. Now, he was thrown a lifeline: the opportunity to transform himself and reclaim his life. The process was tough, as expected. After all, Dr. Now’s program isn’t for the faint-hearted. It combines rigorous diet plans with extensive physical activity, challenging even the most committed individuals.
Due to custody complications, Mike couldn’t stay in Houston, where the program is based, for an extended period. Yet, he made no excuses and continued the program via video consultations with Dr. Now. His parents, who had been a constant support, continued to stand by him. Mike eventually went through a successful gastric bypass surgery, losing a staggering 235 pounds by the time he left the show. He was finally at a more manageable 510 pounds, with eyes set on losing even more.
The transformation didn’t stop there. Mike kept making progress even after his time on the show. He took his doctor-recommended diet and exercise routines to heart, updating his followers on his weight loss journey through his social media platforms. Mike also managed to get back into the workforce, landing an IT job. And although he hasn’t disclosed his exact weight since the show, his commitment to further surgeries indicates that his journey is far from over.
My 600-lb Life: Where is Mike Now?
The journey after “My 600-lb Life” was certainly not a smooth sail for Mike. He faced his share of financial hardships while balancing his responsibilities as a single dad. His GoFundMe page, set up by a friend, tells the tale of these challenges. But even in the face of adversity, Mike Meginness is grateful for his life, for his newfound energy, and most importantly, for his children. He now has full custody of them and has been actively involved in their lives, fulfilling roles from school runs to game nights.
Despite the financial constraints, Mike has managed to maintain his weight loss routine. Meal prepping and even concocting oat milk at home, he’s taking active steps towards a healthier life. His physical capabilities are also on the rise. Imagine, a man who once struggled to walk up a flight of stairs can now run 15 to 20 miles without much trouble. It’s no wonder why Mike continues to inspire his loyal fanbase.
This ongoing journey, however, is not without its own set of obstacles. Yet, by taking responsibilities for his children and his health, Mike continues to rise against the odds. His life is a testament to the power of determination and the possibility of second chances. With full custody of his kids gained in July 2022, Mike appears to be living the dream he once thought was unattainable.
