‘My 600-lb Life’ Star Pauline Potter’s Cause of Death Revealed by Son
Pauline Potter, known for her appearance on the reality TV series “My 600-lb Life,” has passed away at the age of 62. Her son, Dillon Brooks, announced her death in a video posted on her YouTube channel on November 29, revealing that she died on Thanksgiving Day.
Background and Weight Loss Journey
Pauline made headlines in 2012 when she set the Guinness World Record as the heaviest living woman. Her appearance on “My 600-lb Life” in 2015 highlighted her tumultuous battle with obesity. Over the years, she documented her significant weight loss journey on social media platforms like Facebook. By 2020, she had successfully reduced her weight to 223 pounds, showcasing her determination and hard work.
Pauline Potter’s Health Challenges
Despite her progress, Potter faced several health challenges in the years leading up to her death. Dillon Brooks explained that 2025 was particularly difficult, starting with a severe car accident in January. While Potter was driving, she suffered multiple broken ribs and began to have chest pain, though it remained uncertain if this was linked to the accident.
In June, she began having severe digestion issues, unable to keep food down. “Everything she ate or drank kept coming back up,” Brooks reported. Following these complications, they discovered in August that she had a blockage in her esophagus, which required urgent medical attention. During this time, Potter also contracted COVID-19, leading to her hospitalization.
Hospitalization and Worsening Condition
On August 20, 2025, Potter was admitted to the hospital, where her condition deteriorated. The esophageal blockage caused malnutrition, necessitating an increase in her nutrient levels before she could undergo surgery. Additionally, doctors identified a worsening infection on her back, exacerbated by prolonged periods of lying down.
- August 20: Last day at home; admitted to the hospital.
- September: Transferred to a rehab facility for nutritional improvement.
- November 19: Entered hospice care at Brooks’s aunt’s house.
Despite hopes for recovery, Brooks indicated that medical staff had doubts about her condition improving. There were moments in hospice where she appeared stable, but there were also times of evident pain and discomfort.
Cause of Death and Family Reflections
As for the cause of Pauline Potter’s death, there is currently no official diagnosis. Dillon Brooks mentioned that family members have their suspicions based on her health history but lack definitive conclusions. One doctor speculated that her rapid decline might have started due to the car accident. However, Brooks emphasized that there is no formal evidence to support this claim.
Pauline Potter’s journey and struggles highlighted the complexities of weight loss and health challenges. Her family’s devotion during her toughest times reminds us of the profound impact health issues can have on individuals and their loved ones.
