'My 600-lb Life' star L.B. Bonner found dead at 30 following cryptic Facebook post
James “L.B.” Bonner, who appeared on the TLC series My 600-lb Life, has been found dead, according to Radar Online. Friends and family members confirmed the news on social media. (Yahoo Lifestyle has reached out to TLC for comment.) He was 30 years old, according to Radar. It is believed that Bonner took his own life.
Police were called to Bonner’s house in South Carolina on Thursday at 7:45 a.m. A friend confirmed his death to Radar, but not the cause. “He passed away,” the friend said. “I’m not sure how, but from looking at his profile what people were saying he took his own life.”
Before his death, Bonner had posted a cryptic Facebook message, expressing thanks to those who had supported him.
Just days ago, on July 31, it looked as though Bonner was optimistic about the future. In a Facebook post, he wrote, “As I’m getting my day started it hits me how beyond blessed and thankful I am, that I decided to leave my comfort zone a lil over a year ago and embark on this crazy journey to get healthy.”
In 2013, Bonner had lost his leg in a car accident and used food and alcohol to self-medicate his depression. He reached about 650 pounds and appeared on the TLC series. Since appearing on the show, Bonner often posted photos on social media of healthy meals that were part of his diet, and he underwent lap band surgery. He wrote he had “lost well over half [his] body weight.” Radar reported that he had reached a weight in the 200-pound range before his death.
He was proud of his new health and shared that what meant the most to him was his ability to help his family when they needed him. “I was physically able to step up and run my [Dad’s] flooring business,” he wrote.
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is open 24 hours a day at 800-273-8255.
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