Pauline Potter, once named the “World’s Heaviest Living Woman” by Guinness World Records, has stunned the world with her dramatic transformation. After reaching a peak weight of nearly 700 pounds, she’s now lost more than 500 pounds—a journey that changed her life and inspired millions, thanks in part to her time on TLC’s My 600-lb Life.

At her heaviest, Pauline needed a motorized scooter just to get around. She had actually gained weight on purpose after her husband, Alex, admitted he was more attracted to heavier women. But things quickly spiraled out of control.

“I used to love being big, but it got out of hand,” she said on the show. “I couldn’t even stand up without help.”

Basic daily routines became major struggles. Pauline shared how she had to use a walk-in bathtub, an elastic shower head, and even apply cornstarch to skin folds to prevent painful infections. Her son Dillon stepped in to help when she could no longer care for herself.

Everything changed in 2012, when she reached out to Guinness World Records for help—and was officially declared the world’s heaviest living woman. That shock became her wake-up call.

She joined My 600-lb Life, where she began working with Dr. Nowzaradan, a well-known bariatric surgeon. Through surgery, diet, and a serious lifestyle overhaul, Pauline lost more than 500 pounds.

Dr. Now praised her determination, saying on Instagram, “Weight-loss surgery isn’t magic—it’s a tool. Pauline’s commitment is what brought her real success.”

Fans of the show couldn’t be more supportive. “She’s come so far—it’s amazing,” one viewer wrote. Another added, “Pauline’s one of my favorites. Her story really gives people hope.”

Today, Pauline is no longer known for her size but for her strength and perseverance. Her journey is a powerful reminder that change is possible—no matter how impossible it might seem at first.