Cork man lost 3 stone after promising dying brother he would lose weight

For Proinsias Collins, a promise made to his late brother Pádraig became a life-altering mission—one that not only transformed his health but also redefined his viewpoint on life. What started as a heartfelt request from a sibling battling cancer evolved into a powerful tale of resilience, brotherly love, and profound personal growth.

“Pádraig asked me to lose weight and get healthier so that I could live my life, and to do what I could to live provided that I could,” Proinsias recalls. These words, spoken during Pádraig’s final months, became the catalyst for Proinsias’s journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Proinsias Collins after losing three stone

Pádraig Collins passed away on July 1,2022,at the age of 55,leaving behind a legacy of love and determination. Before his passing,he imparted a final lesson to his younger brother: the importance of health and longevity. Proinsias, a father of two from Midleton, West Cork, took those words to heart, shedding nearly three stone and embracing a healthier, more active lifestyle.

The bond between the two brothers was unbreakable. Growing up in Innishannon as part of a family of eight,Proinsias and Pádraig were inseparable. “There was only a year between Pádraig and me,” proinsias says. “We were very close.” Their shared love of sports—playing under-12 hurling and football together—strengthened their connection. Pádraig even played minor hurling and football for Cork until injuries ended his athletic career prematurely.

Though life eventually took them in different directions—Pádraig moved to Italy, where he built a family and worked in the beef industry—the brothers remained deeply connected. “He was very happy,” Proinsias says of his brother’s life abroad. But in 2018, Pádraig’s world was turned upside down by a cancer diagnosis.By July 2022, he decided to return to Cork to spend his final days at home.

“Pádraig rang us to say he was making the trip home,” Proinsias recalls. “My sister and I met him at the airport, all excitement at seeing him again.” But the reunion took a somber turn when they saw the state of Pádraig’s health.“He hadn’t told us how sick he was,” Proinsias admits.“A wheelchair had to be arranged for him at the airport, and a doctor had to be on call. Realizing he was so sick came as a bit of a shock.”

Back home, Pádraig’s condition deteriorated rapidly. Bed-bound but determined, he expressed one final wish: to die at home. In those precious moments, the brothers shared heartfelt conversations and laughter, cherishing the time they had left together.

Proinsias’s transformation began shortly after Pádraig’s passing. Inspired by his brother’s words, he committed to a healthier lifestyle, incorporating regular exercise and mindful eating into his routine. Over time, he lost nearly three stone, a testament to his dedication and the enduring impact of Pádraig’s final request.

Today, Proinsias reflects on his journey with gratitude and pride. “Pádraig’s words changed my life,” he says.“I’m healthier, happier, and more present for my family. It’s a gift I’ll always cherish.” His story serves as a powerful reminder of the profound influence loved ones can have,even in their absence,and the transformative power of a promise kept.

How a Brother’s Promise inspired a Life-Changing Weight loss Journey

For Proinsias Collins, the turning point in his life came during a heartfelt conversation with his brother, Pádraig. At the time, Proinsias weighed over 16 stone, a number that weighed heavily on his mind. “Over the years,Pádraig and I used to place bets on who was the heaviest,” Proinsias recalls. “By then, it was clear I was the heavier one.”

But this wasn’t just about the numbers on the scale. Pádraig, who was facing his own health struggles, made a heartfelt request. “He asked me to promise him that I’d do my best to lose the weight,” Proinsias shares. “he said if he had his life to live over again, he would do everything in his power to stay healthy and live as long as he could.”

That conversation became the spark for a profound transformation. Proinsias was tired—physically and emotionally. He was tired of feeling sluggish, tired of the struggle to find clothes that fit, and tired of living a life that didn’t reflect his true potential. “Shopping for clothes was a nightmare,” he admits. “I had to buy triple and double X sizes. I couldn’t find anything in regular stores.”

Proinsias Collins promised his brother he would lose weight.

Growing up in West Cork, proinsias had always enjoyed hearty, home-cooked meals. “We were good eaters!” he says with a laugh. But as an adult, his sedentary job as a transport website manager took a toll on his health. “I spend moast of my day sitting at a desk,” he explains. “The lack of exercise became another bad habit.”

Pádraig’s words stayed with him, even after his brother’s passing. “Pádraig was clear-headed, and we could still share laughs and meaningful conversations,” Proinsias remembers. “he told me to take care of myself and make the most of my life.”

Inspired by his brother’s advice, proinsias embarked on a journey to reclaim his health. He lost nearly three stone and embraced a more active lifestyle.“Pádraig’s words stayed with me,” he says. “I wanted to honor his memory by living a healthier life.”

Today, Proinsias continues to honor his brother’s legacy, not just through his healthier habits but by sharing their story.It’s a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds of family and the promises we make to those we love.As Proinsias reflects on his journey, he knows one thing for certain: Pádraig’s influence will stay with him forever.

From Grief to Growth: How One Man Transformed His Life to Honor His Brother

When Proinsias lost his beloved brother, Pádraig, he made a promise that would change his life forever. “I vowed to Pádraig before he passed that I would lose weight and get healthier,” Proinsias recalls. That promise became a driving force, especially during Pádraig’s funeral. “Standing there, I felt the weight of my own body and the burden of not representing him well. I knew I had to do better—for him and for myself.”

With unwavering determination, Proinsias took the first step toward transformation.Just a month after Pádraig’s passing, he joined Slimming World in Midleton. “I had tried it before the pandemic, but this time was different. I was fully committed,” he says. The results were undeniable. Not only did he begin to shed pounds, but he also felt Pádraig’s presence cheering him on.“It was like he was with me every step of the way, encouraging me to live my best life.”

A Journey of Milestones and Motivation

Proinsias’ journey was marked by significant milestones. “By October, I had lost two stone, which was my initial goal,” he shares. But he didn’t stop there. “I wanted to lose even more by Christmas, and I did.” By Easter, which coincided with Pádraig’s birthday, Proinsias had achieved his ultimate goal of shedding three stone. “It was my gift to him,” he says with a heartfelt smile.

This amazing transformation wasn’t achieved overnight. Proinsias credits the supportive environment at Slimming World for keeping him on track. “every milestone is celebrated, and the sense of community is incredible,” he explains. “I’ve made great friends there. There’s no judgment—just encouragement and understanding.”

Breaking Stereotypes and building bonds

As one of the few men in the group, Proinsias never felt out of place.“No, I wasn’t the only man there!” he laughs. “But even if I were, it wouldn’t matter. We’re all there for the same reason—to improve our health and support each other.” He describes the group as a “band of brothers,” emphasizing the camaraderie and mutual support that kept him motivated.“Whether I lost weight, stayed the same, or even gained a little, the encouragement never wavered.”

Embracing a Healthier Lifestyle

Beyond the weekly meetings, Proinsias found new ways to stay active and embrace a healthier lifestyle. “I got a dog!” he shares enthusiastically. “We walk together regularly,and I hit 10,000 steps every day.It’s not just about the exercise—it’s about enjoying the fresh air and the outdoors.”

His wife, Pauline, has been a constant source of encouragement throughout his journey. “She’s delighted with me,” Proinsias says. “My life has improved so much, and she loves seeing me fit, healthy, and full of energy.”

A Legacy of Love and Transformation

Proinsias’ story is a powerful testament to the impact of love, commitment, and self-improvement. By honoring his brother’s memory and transforming his habits, he not only achieved his weight loss goals but also discovered a renewed sense of purpose. “Pádraig, always in my heart, was encouraging me to live my best life,” he reflects. “This journey has been about more than losing weight—it’s about honoring him and becoming the best version of myself.”

How Pádraig’s Memory Inspired Proinsias’ Life-changing Transformation

When Proinsias lost his brother Pádraig, the grief was overwhelming. But instead of letting despair take over, he channeled his emotions into a powerful motivation for change. “I had to keep going, to honor Pádraig’s memory and to truly take care of myself,” Proinsias recalls. This decision marked the beginning of a transformative journey that saw him lose nearly three stone (around 42 pounds) and embrace a healthier,more fulfilling lifestyle.

For Proinsias, the weight loss was more than a physical achievement—it was a deeply emotional and spiritual process. “losing the weight was about more than just looking better,” he explains. “It was about feeling better, about honoring my brother’s memory, and about living a life that Pádraig would be proud of.”

As he progressed,Proinsias often reflected on the wisdom Pádraig shared during their final conversations. “Pádraig taught me the importance of health and longevity,” he says. “He made me realize that life is precious, and we have to do everything we can to take care of ourselves.” These lessons became the foundation of his new approach to life, inspiring him to adopt regular exercise, healthier eating habits, and a more active daily routine.

The impact of Proinsias’ transformation extended far beyond his own life. His wife and children noticed significant changes—not just in his appearance, but in his energy, mood, and overall outlook. “They’ve been incredibly supportive,” he shares. “My wife has been my rock throughout this journey, and my kids are proud of me. That means the world.”

Today, Proinsias stands as a testament to the power of love, determination, and the unbreakable bond between siblings. He continues to honor Pádraig’s memory every day, visiting his grave to share his thoughts and progress.“I think of Pádraig all the time,” he reflects. “he’d be proud of me.I know he’s the one who kept me going.”

Proinsias’ story is a powerful reminder that even the most personal goals can be achieved with the right support and a little bit of faith.It’s a journey that highlights the importance of self-care, resilience, and the enduring influence of those we love.

For more information on starting your own health journey, visit www.slimmingworld.ie.

In the quiet moments of reflection, Proinsias found a way to turn grief into purpose. After losing his dear friend Pádraig, he made a vow—not just to himself, but to Pádraig’s memory. “Pádraig’s legacy lives on through me,” Proinsias shares. “Every step I take, every healthy choice I make, is a tribute to him.” This heartfelt commitment has become the driving force behind his journey, inspiring others to take charge of their health and embrace positive change.

Proinsias’ story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Loss can feel insurmountable, but it can also be a catalyst for transformation. By honoring the promises we make to those we love, we can find meaning even in the darkest times. “Pádraig may be gone,” Proinsias reflects, “but his spirit is with me every day, guiding me to live my best life.” These words resonate deeply, reminding us that the bonds we share with others continue to shape our lives long after they’re gone.

This journey isn’t just about personal growth—it’s about creating a legacy.Proinsias’ dedication to health and well-being serves as a beacon of hope for anyone facing adversity. His story encourages us to take small, meaningful steps toward a better future, proving that even the most profound loss can lead to profound change.

How did Slimming World’s community and support system contribute to Proinsias’s weight loss journey?

Abits, and a more mindful outlook on his well-being.

The Role of Community and Support

proinsias emphasizes the importance of the support system he found at Slimming World. “The group became like a second family to me,” he says. “We celebrated each other’s successes and lifted each other up during tough times. It’s amazing how much easier it is to stay motivated when you’re surrounded by people who genuinely care about your progress.”

He also highlights the role of his wife, Pauline, in his journey. “Pauline has been my rock,” he shares. “She’s always there to encourage me, whether it’s joining me for a walk or cooking healthier meals together. Her support has been invaluable.”

A New Chapter of Health and Happiness

Today, Proinsias is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Not only has he achieved his weight loss goals, but he has also gained a newfound sense of confidence and vitality. “I feel like a entirely different person,” he says. “I have more energy, I’m more active, and I’m enjoying life in a way I never thought possible.”

His journey has also inspired others around him. “People have noticed the changes and have asked me for advice,” he says. “It feels good to be able to share my story and encourage others to take control of their health.”

Honoring Pádraig’s Legacy

For Proinsias, the journey is far from over. He continues to honor Pádraig’s memory by living a life filled with purpose and gratitude. “Pádraig’s passing was a wake-up call for me,” he reflects.“It made me realize that life is too short to take our health for granted. Every day, I strive to make choices that honor his memory and make him proud.”

proinsias’ story is a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of love and the strength we can find in the face of loss. Through his change, he has not only improved his own life but has also kept his brother’s spirit alive in the most meaningful way possible.

As he looks to the future, Proinsias is committed to maintaining his healthier lifestyle and continuing to inspire others. “Pádraig’s influence will always be with me,” he says. “This journey is my way of honoring him and ensuring that his legacy lives on.”