Monica Riley’s life changed forever when she discovered she was pregnant. Once determined to become the world’s heaviest woman, weighing 700 pounds and consuming 10,000 calories a day, Monica’s priorities shifted dramatically. Her dream of being bed-bound was replaced by a new goal: becoming a healthy mother for her unborn child.
Monica’s path to motherhood was not easy. She had previously experienced two miscarriages and struggled with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which made conception difficult. When she found out she was pregnant again, she was filled with a mix of hope and fear. Seeing her baby on the sonogram for the first time was a turning point that motivated her to make significant changes.
By the time her daughter, Michelle, was born, Monica had lost nearly 200 pounds. Despite her efforts, complications arose, and Michelle was delivered via emergency C-section at 33 weeks. Monica recalls the fear she felt when her baby didn’t cry immediately after birth. Michelle was placed on a ventilator, and it took over a day before Monica could hold her. The moment she finally saw her daughter, she was overwhelmed with emotion.
Monica doesn’t blame her past lifestyle for the complications, noting that premature births can happen to anyone. However, she is committed to ensuring her daughter grows up with healthier habits. She and her fiancé, Sid, plan to introduce Michelle to fruits and vegetables early on, limiting treats to special occasions. Monica’s focus has shifted from her previous goal of immobility to being an active, present mother.
While Monica doesn’t regret her past, she acknowledges that her priorities have changed. She is determined to lose more weight and is considering gastric bypass surgery. Sid, who once supported her goal of gaining weight, now stands by her decision to get healthier, emphasizing that his love for her isn’t tied to her size.
Monica’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and love. She has embraced her new role as a mother and is committed to creating a healthier future for herself and her family. Her journey reminds us that it’s never too late to make a change for the better.
