Monica Riley, a woman from Fort Worth, Texas, once dreamed of becoming the world’s heaviest woman. At her peak, she weighed 700 pounds and consumed up to 10,000 calories a day. Her fiancé, Sid, supported her goal, even feeding her 3,500-calorie milkshakes through a funnel. Monica’s life took a dramatic turn when she discovered she was pregnant. This unexpected news became the catalyst for her decision to lose weight and prioritize her health for the sake of her unborn child.
Monica’s journey to motherhood wasn’t easy. She had previously experienced two miscarriages and struggled with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a condition that causes weight gain and infertility. When she found out she was pregnant again, she was both shocked and terrified. Seeing her baby on the sonogram for the first time, however, filled her with hope and determination. She knew she had to make significant changes to ensure a safe pregnancy and delivery.
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 a day and a half 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 Sid plan to introduce Michelle to fruits and vegetables early on, limiting treats to special occasions like Halloween. Monica’s focus has shifted from her previous goal of being bed-bound to being an active, present mother who can keep up with her child.
While Monica doesn’t regret her past, she acknowledges that her priorities have changed. She no longer finds the idea of immobility appealing and is determined to lose more weight, even considering gastric bypass surgery. Her fiancé, Sid, supports her fully, emphasizing that his love for her isn’t tied to her size. Monica’s journey has inspired many, though it also led to criticism from some in the SSBBW (Super-Sized Big Beautiful Woman) community who felt betrayed by her decision to lose weight.
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.
