New TLC Show Follows 900lbs Morbidly Obese Man

Ricky Naputi was one of the world’s fattest men, and a documentary surrounding his pursuit to slim down from his 900lbs frame aired on TLC.

The 39-year-old was looking to lose weight and live a normal life, as he had been stuck in bed in his home, just off the Pacific Island of Guam for around five years.

The show follows Naputi and his wife Cheryl over three years as they received guidance from an obesity expert, Angie Flores. One of their main problems is moving Naputi to the U.S. mainland where he can receive the weight-loss surgery that he needs to survive.

When Naputi meets with Dr. Vong he learns that he weighs just under 700lbs, and he is desperate to lose this weight. Naputi used to consume up to 10,000 calories a day.

“The last time I got out and enjoyed myself must have been years,” stated Naputi. “I miss feeling the sun on my face. Miss showering, feeling the water run down my body.”

His wife, Cheryl, who has been married to him for ten years needs to assist him in every manner. She cooks for him, gives him sponge baths, and even helps to get him off the toilet.

Cheryl admits, “It’s like taking care of an overgrown baby.” Ricky was already overweight when they met , and they had been speaking over the phone but was eager to meet the man she had been talking to for weeks.

“When I went to Ricky’s apartment he only cracked [the door] open an inch or so. I pushed the door in … three-and-a-half weeks later I moved in,” stated Cheryl.

Naputi was unable to lose the weight that would have saved his life and ultimately died on November 10, 2012 at the age of 39.

Did you watch TLC’s, 900 Pound Man, Race Against Time?