Leukemia survivor who was ‘morbidly obese’ celebrates 77 kg weight loss by indoor skydiving

Maria Castro, a full-time job school teacher, struggled with weight her entire life. In 2007, she was diagnosed with leukemia and her weight became a much bigger issue. Her body weight peaked while taking oral chemotherapy medication. With work, cancer treatment and two young sons at the time, Castro told People Magazine she had forgotten to prioritize herself.

"I really was not giving any kind of attention or importance to providing proper nutrition to my body and I didn't do any exercise whatsoever because, at my size, I couldn't physically do so," the 45-year-old said.

Her doctor told her that she was “more worried about the weight killing you than the leukemia killing you.”

In 2019, her son asked to go indoor skydiving for his 16th birthday party and Castro prepped to make the fun-filled day happen. However, weighing 328 lbs at that time, which is about 148 kg, the Bronx native was ‘too big’ to participate. The skydiving gear didn't come in her size and she was the only one who could not participate.

"I watched my whole family have this experience I couldn't partake in. I remember sitting outside that glass tube and just being devastated—the shame," she said, adding, "When you're morbidly obese, you're painfully aware when you walk into any environment, you're the largest person in the room."

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The next day, Castro decided to turn to WeightWatchers for help – a global company that offers weight loss and maintenance, fitness, and mindset services.

Within a year of incorporating nutritional changes, Castro dropped her first 100 lbs. (45 kg) and was now able to exercise regularly for the first time in her life. Her strength and confidence levels also improved.

"Just having enough stamina to be able to walk around the grocery store or the mall with my sons, being able to fit in the backseat of a car with other people, or wearing riding boots that fit around my calves," Castro said, adding, "And I will never get over the excitement of being able to cross my legs when sitting."

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Today, Castro weighs 158 lbs. (about 71 kg). Last month, she celebrated her 77 kg weight loss by returning to the indoor skydiving facility, three years after the incident that changed her entire lifestyle.

"I feel like this is the most appropriate way to celebrate everything I've been through. It's extremely emotional and cathartic for me because it's my journey coming full circle," she said.