Where is Ontreon Shannon now? Dr Now calls out 'My 600-lb Life: Where Are They Now' star's lack of effort
MCKINNEY, TEXAS: Ontreon Shannon isn't one to shy away from a challenge, and it seems his determination has only grown over time. He's shared on Facebook that he feels healthier each day, even if he hasn't updated his weight recently.
Ontreon, who remains married and resides in McKinney, Texas, appears to maintain an optimistic outlook on life. He still harbors ambitions to enhance the well-being of his family and himself. However, it's uncertain whether he continues to seek expert medical guidance for his weight reduction journey.
Who is Ontreon Shannon in 'My 600-lb Life'?
In January 2022, Ontreon made an appearance on 'My 600-lb Life', Season 10, Episode 11. He disclosed that alongside his weight struggles, he battles severe diabetes and congestive heart failure. Presently, he resides in Plano, Texas.
He receives a dire diagnosis early in the program: "I have two or three different doctors that said that I would be lucky to even see 40. The worst has already begun to happen; it's definitely no way to live."
Additionally, Ontreon discloses that he takes 13–14 different drugs to prevent heart failure. Even though he appears to be dealing with a lot of highly distressing situations in his life, Ontreon insists that he keeps going because he needs to take care of his mother and wife.
As the show unfolds, viewers will observe that Ontreon's eating habits are influenced by external pressures, leading to noticeable tension with loved ones. While his loved ones express concern, it's evident that their frustration stems from a place of genuine care and a desire to support Ontreon in overcoming his obesity.
Ontreon is open and honest with Dr Younan Nowzaradan at first. He clarifies that he is prepared to put in the required effort to lose weight, even if he is unsure of the exact actions he needs to follow.
Initially, the doctor feels that Ontreon has the dedication required for such an undertaking, but he persists, in engaging in physical activity, counseling, and various other prophylactic strategies.
Ontreon Shannon gained 15 lbs instead of losing 80 lbs in 'My 600-lb Life'
Throughout the early stages of his transition, Ontreon encounters various challenges. Nonetheless, he finds comfort in his religion and the love and support of those closest to him. Even after the episode, Ontreon seems to fall short, although there are frequent signs of mental progress in overcoming the negative behaviors that led to his obesity.
In the two months following his last checkup, during which he was tasked with losing eighty pounds, Ontreon had gained fifteen pounds, as reported during his final check-in. "It feels like no matter what I do, it's never going to be good enough," Ontreon says, visibly distressed over his weight increase.
Ontreon, feeling that he's made some progress, requests the doctor not to give up on him just yet, even if it seems they've exhausted all options. However, the doctor remains resolute, questioning Ontreon's commitment to substantial change and viewing his plea as an emotional reaction rather than genuine determination.
He continues by emphasizing that Ontreon alone holds the power to change the trajectory of his life, and time is running short. As the episode draws to a close, Ontreon declares that he is "just beginning."
Ontreon Shannon's struggle to lose weight continues in 'My 600-lb Life: Where Are They Now?'
Ontreon Shannon is reintroduced to fans in 'My 600-lb Life: Where Are They Now?' Season 9, Episode 2. Viewers discover that even after the cameras stopped rolling following 'My 600-lb Life' Season 10, Episode 11, Ontreon had not met the standards set by Dr Now.
Ontreon's weight remained stagnant at 702 pounds, the same as when he initially sought consultation with Dr Now, even one year and one month later. Dr Now expressed concern about Ontreon's future and emphasized his reluctance to make the necessary changes for a healthier life.
After that visit, Ontreon appears to become weary of his circumstances. He takes a positive step by sharing with the church community that he has been holding onto his sadness, acknowledging that it may have played a role in his eating patterns.
Ontreon requests assistance from his trainer in selecting and preparing meals. Ontreon ultimately shed a significant amount of weight a year and a half after seeing Dr Now.
Ontreon, now weighing 639 pounds, recognizes that his therapy has played a pivotal role in his weight loss journey. However, he admits two months later that he has not made further progress, attributing it to the recent move to a larger apartment he and his wife undertook. Determined to achieve his goal, Ontreon remains committed to reaching his target weight of 600 pounds.
'My 600-lb Life: Where Are They Now?' airs on Wednesdays at 8 pm ET on TLC.
