Suvechha Sarkar
During his appearance in TLC’s ‘My 600-lb Life,’ Justin Williamson weighed 685lbs and was reportedly the most obese teen in the country. Throughout his journey, he showcased immense resilience and hard work to achieve his weight goal. When he was just 17 years old, he noticed that obesity had become a life-threatening challenge for him as it not only limited his ability to move but also crushed his dreams. The episode focused on how he fought to regain control of his health while facing both physical and emotional battles. His interesting personality captured the hearts of many, and with the help of medical experts and a determined mindset, he embarked on a transformation that has left several inspired.
Justin Williamson’s Journey Was Driven by His Passion to Get Healthy
Justin Williamson’s battle with morbid obesity was about shedding weight and claiming his dream. He claimed that he did not care much about his weight when he was in sixth or seventh grade because he had yet to discover his passion. Finally, his motivation to transform his life came when music became his escape and love in the eighth grade. Initially, he used to try eating healthy food alongside working out. However, it did not make any difference because he always ended up going back to food since he found comfort in it. His weight had gradually made his daily activities unbearable, and even standing for too long left him gasping for air. Justin used to feel depressed all the time, and even if he was moving for a short distance, he had trouble walking.
Justin soon realized that this journey would not at all be easy. However, he refused to let his dream slip away from his hands. Constant support from his mother, Julie Crawford Williamson, and his sister, Jordan, ultimately became one of his strongest pillars. Similarly, Bariatric Surgeons Dr. Neichoy and Dr. Shniederjan from Panhandle Weight Loss Centre also played a crucial role in guiding him toward a healthier and more fulfilling future. With his first weight loss surgery, he had reduced 60 lbs, which added up to an incredible 130 lbs weight loss for him. By the time his journey on the show finally ended, he had achieved the unthinkable. Justin had lost an astonishing weight over 300 lbs, which brought his original 685 lbs down to 380 lbs.
Justin Williamson Continues to Delve Himself Deeper into Music
Justin first discovered his love for music when he was just in 8th grade and was auditioning for the choir. Everyone in the school was stunned to hear his magical voice. When he had not yet begun his weight loss journey, he was approached by a well-known music producer, Jeff Koz, who had heard him singing and wanted to work with him. Sadly, he had to pass on the opportunity because his body would not allow him to bear with the experience. He had almost thought that this was a lost cause. To his surprise, 10 months after his first surgery, Jeff again reached out to him and expressed his wish to bring Justin on stage before the audience. Finally, one year following his hard work, he received the stunning chance to perform at the Hudson theatres, marking his premiere in Los Angeles.
At the start of the performance, Justin was visibly nervous. However, he soon embraced the experience and decided to give it his all. It was finally his time to let his voice reach the world. His melodious song ultimately left everyone speechless and in awe. Following this, he has been actively pursuing a career in music. He enrolled in the Music Performance Program at West Texas A&M University, and they chose a few students for a summer music program at the International Performing Arts Institute (IPAI) in Germany. In October 2019, he became one of the selected students and auditioned before the renowned Opera singer Maryann Kyle. He received the opportunity to hone his skills further under the mentorship of famous singers.
In December 2021, Justin excitedly shared that he had applied to Boston Conservatory for graduate school and was visibly excited about the upcoming audition in February 2022. During this year, he also had the honor of returning to River Road High School as an alumnus and teaching the students about music. In April 2023, when one of his fans asked what he was upto, he informed him he was working on his Master’s in Music at West Texas A&M University. Finally, in February 2024, he got admission into the University of North Texas College of Music to pursue a Doctor of Musical Arts degree. This was one of his biggest achievements, and he did not shy away from proudly showcasing it. Justin has also garnered a decent fanbase for himself and has continued to sing to this day, fully utilizing his second chance.
Justin Williamson Has Become a Strong Advocate of the Pride Community
Besides working towards his dream, Justin has also become a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. He has been using his social media to promote acceptance and equality on the matter. Time and time again, he has spoken out about the misconception surrounding this topic and emphasized that this is neither a disease nor a choice but simply a part of who someone is. If there is one thing that Justin always believes in, it is the fact that “Love is Love.” His courage in addressing these issues has made him more than just an inspiration for those who are struggling with their weight.
Justin is Thriving With Her Mother and Sister by His Side
From the very beginning, Justin’s journey was a shared struggle, one that had deeply affected his mother, Julie, and his sister, Jordan. Throughout his life, they have stood alongside him through every high and low. However, this support came with a heavy burden of guilt for him since he felt that he had forced them into the role of his caregiver. Justin also expressed that he had limited their lives because of his condition. However, this also became one of his biggest motivations to transform. After his remarkable change, Justin regained his independence, which made him incredibly happy because his mother and sister could now completely focus on their lives. They have also been by his side even when he is speaking out about equal rights before the pride community.
On the other hand, Julie could not be more proud of his son’s strength, determination, and even talent. She never fails to express her amazement at his resilience and often boasts about his achievements. His sister Jordan shares the same sentiment, and their bond remains unbreakable to this day. Justin often refers to her as the best sister, further highlighting their deep connection. Apart from these little things, his love for his pet dogs, Sammy and Lily, is no secret to his fans. Although he has not shared any further details about whether they continue to be a part of his life, we do know that they have brought him immense joy. When Justin is not indulging in music or advocating for important causes, he often enjoys watching a good horror movie or a game of volleyball.
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