Man Given 6 Months to Live Loses 76 Pounds to Combat Liver Disease

A remarkable transformation story: Derek Barnett, a 55-year-old from Durham, North Carolina, was given just six months to live due to advanced liver disease. Determined to beat the odds, he shed 76 pounds by adopting a fruit-based diet and staying active, inspiring countless others with his journey.

From Diagnosis to Motivation

At his heaviest, Derek weighed 240 pounds and wore a size 38. He had been diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease a decade ago but initially dismissed the severity. Over time, the condition progressed to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, a type of liver cancer.

“I was given a letter last January stating I could have six months to live if the cancer progressed,” Derek recalls. Faced with this life-threatening diagnosis, he took matters into his own hands.

The Diet That Changed Everything

Doctors emphasized weight loss as a critical step in improving his health. Derek embraced a major lifestyle overhaul, focusing on a fruit-centric diet complemented by protein shakes.

“I’m a fruit-aholic,” he said. “I eat apples, oranges, grapes, and watermelons—whatever’s in season. I also include protein shakes in my routine.”

By eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding heavy foods like meat, Derek achieved incredible results.

A New Lease on Life

Now weighing 164 pounds, Derek feels healthier than ever. “I haven’t weighed this since I was 15,” he said, although he admits there’s still work to be done.

“I’m working on building muscle tone to address the skin loss. My clothes are baggy, and it’s tough to afford new ones after losing weight so quickly, but I feel amazing.”

Staying Active Despite Challenges

Derek’s workout routine is tailored to his physical limitations. With osteoarthritis in his right knee, he avoids jogging or stair exercises, focusing instead on seated workouts using dumbbells.

“I find ways to stay active without hurting myself. Losing weight is about finding anything that gets you off the couch,” he said.

Inspiration for Others

Derek’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of lifestyle changes.

“I’ve done everything the doctors told me. It’s about eating right, staying active, and never giving up,” he emphasized.

Looking Ahead

With his next checkup scheduled for February, Derek remains optimistic about his future. His ultimate goal is to return to work and live a vibrant, cancer-free life.

“I want to ring that bell and tell my doctors I’ve done it. This is just the beginning,” he said.

Derek’s journey is a testament to resilience and determination, proving that with the right mindset, anything is possible.