Latonya Pottain, a reality TV personality who appeared on Season 11 of My 600-Lb. Life, has died at the age of 40. Her death was confirmed on May 17, 2025, at CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center in Shreveport, Louisiana.
The preliminary autopsy, conducted by the Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office, cites congestive heart failure as the cause of death. A full autopsy report is still pending.
According to her family, Pottain was rushed to the hospital after experiencing breathing complications and later went into cardiac arrest. The news was first reported by TMZ, with confirmation from local medical authorities.
A Struggle Shared Publicly
Earlier this year, Pottain opened up about her health battles in a GoFundMe campaign that described the immense challenges she faced daily.
“I currently weigh about 705 pounds and have been bedridden since June 2024 due to severe health issues,” she wrote in February. “This has been the most challenging time of my life.”
Pottain revealed she initially weighed 531 pounds when she appeared on My 600-Lb. Life in 2022. After participating in the program led by bariatric surgeon Dr. Younan Nowzaradan, she managed to lose weight, reaching 505 pounds. However, after her episode aired, she was met with harsh criticism and online backlash.
Depression and Decline
The negative attention took a toll on Pottain’s mental health. In her own words, the backlash sent her into a “deep depression,” which ultimately halted her progress toward weight loss surgery.
“I was scared to continue,” she said. “Now, I am completely bedridden and unable to get to the hospital because EMTs say transporting me would be a fire hazard due to my weight.”
Pottain also shared that she was suffering from severe sciatica, a painful nerve condition that made even the most basic tasks excruciating. Her physical and emotional struggles left her isolated and in constant discomfort.
Warnings from Dr. Nowzaradan
On the show, Pottain’s health challenges were evident. Dr. Nowzaradan repeatedly expressed concern about her heart health and warned that failure to adopt major lifestyle changes could prove fatal.
Despite her efforts, Pottain struggled to meet the show’s rigorous requirements. Her story was a sobering reminder of the complex relationship between mental health, obesity, and access to care.
A Life Marked by Courage
Latonya Pottain’s journey was not just about weight loss — it was about survival. Her candidness about her mental health, isolation, and determination to fight for her life struck a chord with viewers, even as she faced criticism.
Her death is a tragic reminder of the very real risks faced by individuals struggling with morbid obesity and related health complications. Pottain’s openness gave voice to many who face similar challenges but suffer in silence.
She is remembered not only for her appearance on television but for her courage to share her journey publicly.
