Khalid bin Mohsen Shaari, once recognized as the heaviest man alive, has achieved an extraordinary transformation, shedding a staggering 542 kg, thanks to the timely intervention and support from Saudi Arabia’s former King Abdullah. In 2013, Khalid’s weight reached a life-threatening 610 kg, rendering him bedridden for over three years. His deteriorating condition meant he relied entirely on friends and family for even the most basic of daily needs, with his health rapidly declining to the brink of disaster.
King Abdullah, deeply moved by Khalid’s dire circumstances, initiated a comprehensive plan to save his life. Understanding the complexity of Khalid’s condition, the King arranged for him to receive world-class medical care at no expense. The logistical challenges of moving Khalid were immense, requiring his transportation from his home in Jazan to King Fahad Medical City in Riyadh via a specially designed bed, with the assistance of a forklift. This was only the beginning of a journey that would require the expertise and dedication of a specialized team of 30 medical professionals.
Khalid’s treatment was meticulously planned, encompassing a range of medical and therapeutic interventions. The primary approach involved a gastric bypass surgery, which significantly reduced the size of his stomach, thus limiting his food intake. This surgical intervention was complemented by a customized diet plan designed to promote steady and healthy weight loss. Additionally, Khalid underwent intensive physiotherapy sessions aimed at not only helping him regain mobility but also at rebuilding muscle strength that had atrophied during his years of immobility.
The results were nothing short of miraculous. Khalid, who had once been the heaviest person alive and the second heaviest person ever recorded, experienced a rapid transformation. In just six months, he lost nearly half of his body weight, marking a pivotal milestone in his recovery.
By 2023, Khalid’s weight had plummeted to a healthy 63.5 kg, a reduction of 542 kg that astonished medical experts and the public alike. His physical metamorphosis was so profound that it necessitated multiple surgeries to remove excess skin—a common issue for individuals who undergo such drastic weight loss, as the skin often fails to contract in proportion to the reduced body mass.
Khalid bin Mohsen Shaari’s journey from 610 kg to 63.5 kg is a testament to the power of medical intervention, the resilience of the human spirit, and the life-saving impact of King Abdullah’s compassion and vision. His story continues to inspire many, serving as a powerful reminder of the possibilities that arise when determination meets opportunity.
