Man Loses 400 Pounds Naturally and Raises Funds to Remove Excess Skin

Cole Prochaska, a South Carolina man who lost nearly 400 pounds through lifestyle changes alone, is now turning to the public for help funding the next step in his transformation — excess skin removal surgery.

From 585 Pounds to a Healthier Life: Cole Prochaska’s Incredible Weight Loss Journey

At his heaviest, Prochaska weighed 585 pounds — the maximum his scale could display and nearly the weight of three adult men. In an interview with TODAY in 2023, he opened up about the emotional and physical toll of living with obesity:

“I felt pretty bad,” Prochaska said. “I would always put on a happy exterior… But I was a pretty lonely person.”

Like many struggling with obesity, he avoided social events due to fear of not fitting into chairs, difficulty walking long distances, and anxiety over what to wear.

But everything changed when Cole decided to take back control of his life.

Losing Weight Without Surgery or Medication

Over the course of two years, Prochaska committed to a strict but sustainable routine:

• Walking 10,000+ steps a day

• Lifting weights at the gym three times a week

• Eating a high-protein, nutrient-dense diet

Remarkably, he achieved his weight loss without weight-loss drugs or surgery, dropping down to around 226 pounds — a milestone he continues to maintain naturally.

The Challenge After Weight Loss: Excess Skin

Despite feeling healthier and more confident, Cole now faces a new challenge: loose, excess skin that remains after massive weight loss. This excess skin not only affects his self-esteem but also impacts his comfort and quality of life.

To take the final step in his transformation, Prochaska launched a GoFundMe campaign in 2023, aiming to raise $100,000 for multiple skin removal surgeries. Though he was initially nervous, he posted shirtless photos on social media to show his progress and inspire others.

“I needed to show everybody all the skin I have and how far I’ve come and just embrace it,” he shared with TODAY.

Viral Support: Over $75K Raised So Far

Prochaska’s story has resonated deeply online. As of 2024, his GoFundMe has raised over $75,000, with donations from more than 2,000 supporters. His Instagram, @3to1fitness, continues to chronicle his transformation journey, offering hope and motivation to others battling obesity.

He remains committed to reaching his $100,000 goal, determined to complete his physical and emotional transformation.