Plot Synopsis

Because of their extreme obesity, 22 individuals face life-threatening health consequences, and they choose to experience real life change as they're transformed during a six-month treatment program. Through their day-to-day struggle and the voices of their loved ones, HEAVY documents the pain and self-doubt associated with a debilitating weight problem, and it shows the never-before-seen struggles faced by dangerously obese individuals who must learn to live healthier lifestyles and understand the root of their food addictions. The group of 22 participants, ages 20-59, started the program between 240 and 630 pounds and collectively lost more than 2,440 pounds, with half of the participants shedding more than 30% of their body mass. Each episode documents two participants, including: Bill (age 52; height: 6' 3"; weight: 443 lbs) is a former NFL player whose crippling addiction left him homeless; Debbie (44; 5' 2"; 400 lbs) has severe health issues and lacks the self confidence to experience an intimate relationship; Jill (35; 5' 6"; 305 lbs) is a second-grade teacher who must reduce her body mass if she has any of hope of getting pregnant; Johnny (20; 6'; 404 lbs) faces a devastating future if he does not lose weight; Sallie (30; 5' 6"; 443 lbs) steadily gained weight after her father committed suicide and doesn't want her nine-year-old son to follow in her footsteps; Sharon (47; 5' 6"; 366 lbs) needs to shed weight after the tragic death of her son and loss of her and her husband's jobs; Jessica (28; 5' 2"; 288 lbs) has trouble keeping up with her kids and dreams of joining the police academy; Ronnie (45; 6' 2"; 447 lbs) wants to marry his fiance but is too heavy; and many others.