Dawid and Rose-Mari Lombard, a couple from Winnie Mandela (formerly Brandfort) in Free State, South Africa, embarked on a profound weight loss journey after their 'until death do we part' vow seemed to be leading them towards an early grave. Their lifestyle consisted of each consuming a loaf of bread daily, accompanied by unlimited junk food and washing it down with 12 litres of full-fat Coke every day. Dawid, 39, recounted their previous diet, which included frequent stops at KFC for snacks before McDonald's, and entire bags of Quality Street chocolates each in the evenings.

At their heaviest, the Lombards collectively weighed 440kg (nearly 70 stone) and suffered from severe health issues, including high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. The turning point came when they realized their 10-year-old son, Divan, was being bullied because of their appearance and was also on a path to morbid obesity. This realization, coupled with doctors' warnings that Dawid 'wouldn't see 40,' spurred them into drastic action, ultimately leading them to lose a combined 40 stone.

Before their lifestyle overhaul, Dawid weighed almost 300kg (about 47 stone), more than double his wife's weight, and faced limited mobility, forcing him to leave his job. He suffered from high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, inflammation, and sleep apnoea, fearing every night might be his last. Rose-Mari weighed 140kg (just over 22 stone) and experienced similar health problems. Despite public gossip, the couple decided in September 2024 that enough was enough, recognizing the need for change.

Rose-Mari took the first step by writing to Dr Smook & Partners, a Bloemfontein-based medical practice specializing in weight loss. With the support of their medical team, the Lombards began their transformation. Dawid initially struggled with anger – at past failed diets, friends and family, doctors, and even sugar itself. A biokineticist recommended he start by simply walking 100m a day and doing arm exercises.

One morning in September 2024, Dawid, with Rose-Mari and Divan by his side, began his daily walks, initially taking only two steps at a time before needing to rest. His determination soon saw those 100m turn into at least 5km a day. Within the first month, Dawid shed 20kg (3 stone 2lb), enabling him to fit behind the steering wheel of his new Ford Ranger Bakkie, a moment Rose-Mari humorously recalled from an earlier unsuccessful attempt where his stomach pressed against the hooter.

Dawid has since lost an incredible 183kg (29 stone), reducing his waist size from 190cm to 80cm and his pants size from 62 to 36. Rose-Mari has also achieved remarkable success, losing 81kg (nearly 13 stone), with her waist size shrinking from 140cm to 50cm. Together, they have shed an astonishing 264kg (around 40 stone). Their son, Divan, has also reaped the benefits, losing 10kg (just over a stone) by removing sugar and junk food from their family home.

After six months of increasing fitness, the couple joined a gym, initially arriving an hour earlier with a personal trainer due to shyness, but now confidently exercising alongside others daily. Their treatment plan includes a dietitian-compiled eating regimen focusing on protein, vegetables, and healthy starches like brown rice and rye bread, supplemented by hormone injections to regulate glucose, blood sugar, and appetite. They now primarily consume water, with only occasional sugar-free soft drinks.

The transformation has been holistic. Dawid's health problems have vanished, his anger and reclusiveness replaced by gratitude and confidence. Rose-Mari notes Dawid's improved confidence, no longer needing to look at her while conversing with others. Her own health issues have disappeared, and she hopes to conceive another child soon. While Dawid is at his target weight, he plans to undergo surgery to remove an estimated 20kg of loose skin. Rose-Mari, however, wears her skin folds with pride, a testament to her journey. The couple now plans to get new wedding rings and hold a rededication ceremony, making new promises in their new bodies.