Man given 6 months to live loses 76 pounds with fruit and protein shake diet
A Durham, North Carolina man has defied the odds and turned his life around after receiving grave medical news that could have been life-threatening. Derek Barnett, 55, was diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease a decade ago. At his heaviest, Barnett weighed 240 pounds and was a size 38, working as a construction worker until health issues forced him to take a break.
Initially, Barnett brushed off his diagnosis, believing it was just another common health issue that many people face. However, as time went on, his condition worsened, progressing into cirrhosis and ultimately liver cancer. In January 2024, Barnett received a letter from his doctor that delivered a devastating blow – he potentially had only six months to live if the cancer continued to grow.
“When they gave me that letter last year, it got real,” Barnett shared. “That note said, ‘If the cancer gets aggressive, you have six months to live.’ I saved it, looked at it every day, and it beat me up.”
Realizing the gravity of his situation, Barnett knew he had to make a change to improve his health and potentially extend his life. His doctors advised him that losing weight would be the best way to regain his health. Determined to make a difference, Barnett embarked on a fruit-based diet, consuming small meals throughout the day that primarily consisted of his favorite fruits like watermelon, apples, oranges, and grapes.
“I’m a fruit-aholic. I went on a major fruit diet basically,” Barnett revealed. “I do protein shakes, too. I’m not a vegetarian, but I don’t eat meat much, because it’s too filling for me.”
Through his dedication to his diet and consistent exercise routine, Barnett managed to shed more than 70 pounds, reaching a record-low weight of 164 pounds. While he still has work to do in toning his muscles, Barnett reported feeling fantastic and optimistic about his future.
Despite physical limitations due to osteoarthritis in his right knee, Barnett remains active, using chair workouts and light dumbbells to maintain his fitness. He hopes to inspire others with his successful weight-loss journey and plans to find out the status of his prognosis in February.
“I definitely don’t want cancer anymore. I don’t want a liver transplant. I want to live an active lifestyle,” Barnett expressed. “If I can do this, anyone can. I’ve done everything the doctors told me to do. It’s about eating right, staying active, and never giving up.”
Looking ahead, Barnett is determined to return to work, live a full, active life, and continue his journey towards better health. He is excited to ring that bell at his next doctor’s visit, signifying his triumph over adversity.
Barnett’s story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the impact of lifestyle changes on health outcomes. It serves as a reminder that with the right mindset and dedication, anyone can overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
