‘1000-Lb Sisters’ Tammy Slaton Says She’s “Thankful to Be Alive” After Jaw-Dropping Weight Loss | “Feeling Great!”

Tammy Slaton, well known for her appearance on the reality show 1000-Lb. Sisters, is making remarkable progress following her weight-loss surgery and says she is feeling "great." The 36-year-old star shared exclusive details with PEOPLE about her journey since undergoing bariatric surgery in 2022, which led to a significant improvement from her near-death experience prior to the operation.

After experiencing a critical situation where she stopped breathing, Slaton was placed on a ventilator and placed in a medically induced coma. However, she successfully underwent weight-loss surgery and has since achieved several milestones in her recovery. Slaton proudly revealed that she has strengthened her lungs enough to have her tracheostomy tube removed. “I wised up and got my surgery," she tells PEOPLE. "I was able to make my lungs strong enough to get my trach [tracheostomy tube for breathing] out, and then recently the doctor cleared me to be off my oxygen machine during the daytime. Now I only wear my oxygen at night, along with my BiPap machine," she notes. "I monitor my oxygen levels throughout the day and keep my machine on hand in case I need it.”

In a significant development, Slaton took to Instagram last month to share photos of herself without her oxygen tube, showing her continued improvement. "I’m feeling great! I’m thankful to be alive, and it’s fun to be progressing as much as I am," she added. Recently, she was photographed walking on her own, a remarkable feat considering she previously relied on a wheelchair or walker for mobility. These accomplishments garnered praise from her weight-loss surgeon, Dr. Eric Smith, who expressed his pride in her journey and commented, "So proud of you❤️."

Slaton's health journey has been closely followed by fans since her appearance on the popular TLC reality show. In the latest season of 1000-Lb. Sisters, viewers witnessed her transformation while at a weight loss rehab facility in Ohio. One episode captured the moment when she reached her weight-loss goal, dropping from 717 lbs. to 534 lbs., surpassing even her expectations. Upon seeing the scale display her weight at 534.7 lbs., Slaton felt overwhelmed with emotions. She exclaimed, "I'm feeling thrilled, proud, excited — just all the emotions. I proved everybody wrong. Everybody that doubted me, I finally got mine! My told-you-so moment!"

Tammy Slaton's incredible progress serves as an inspiration to those struggling with weight-related issues. Her determination and perseverance have allowed her to overcome significant obstacles and improve her overall well-being. As she continues her health journey, Slaton remains committed to reaching her goals and embracing a healthier lifestyle.

References:

https://people.com/tammy-slaton-candid-weight-loss-exclusive-7509316

https://www.instagram.com/p/CswIJcEOSar/

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cs88SU8uiYD/

Cover Image Source: Instagram | Tammy Slaton