A Tribute to Dr Michael Mosley

A life changer

In 2017, I found myself morbidly obese, grappling with type 2 diabetes, and staring down the barrel of an early demise. During this dark period, I encountered the transformative work of Dr Michael Mosley. Initially encountered through a Kindle, his writings on ultra-low-calorie diets were revelatory. I devoured his book and meticulously read every scientific paper he referenced in his footnotes, forwarding all this research to my GP, Dr Nazeer.

Dr Mosley's writing stood out for its simplicity and clarity, presenting radical ideas grounded firmly in science. Amidst the public health debates dominated by orthodoxy and industry interests, he remained unassailable because he never strayed from empirical evidence. His approach not only challenged conventional wisdom but also provided a beacon of hope for many like myself.

I had the privilege of meeting Dr Mosley once, and he was exactly as I imagined: gentle, kind, and exceedingly generous. He endorsed my book, Downsizing, and his praise was heartfelt. He noted that my personal journey, extensively quoting his work, had the potential to help countless others. This endorsement was not just a professional courtesy but a testament to his genuine desire to support others.

Regrettably, my last exchange with him haunts me. He had invited me to London to be interviewed for a programme he was making. At the time, overwhelmed by a bereavement, I failed to respond. The guilt of this unacknowledged generosity weighs heavily on me, especially now that it is too late to apologise. This missed opportunity is a profound regret, a moment lost in the chaos of life that can never be reclaimed.

Dr Mosley was not just a public figure but a revered mentor to many who transformed their lives through his guidance. In our community, he was a trusted voice, a symbol of hope and scientific integrity. His passing feels like the loss of a close friend, a sentiment undoubtedly shared by thousands. Tributes have poured in from around the world, underscoring his impact. Many have shared stories of personal transformation inspired by his work.

Dr Mosley's influence extended beyond his books. His Radio 4 series Just One Thing reached millions, offering simple, scientifically-backed health tips. His final social media post, poignantly shared just a day before his disappearance, encapsulated his life's mission to improve public health with accessible advice. He wrote: "If time is tight, what's the one thing that you should be doing to improve your health and wellbeing? In my Just One Thing series with @bbcradio4, I explore the surprisingly simple top tips that are scientifically proven to change your life"​

After my recent cancer treatment, I regained weight, but I'm on the path of shedding it again, albeit more slowly. Revisiting Dr Mosley's Fast 800 Keto and The Fast Diet books, I hear his encouraging voice, gently urging me forward. His influence remains in my ongoing health journey.

God bless you, Michael. You are already deeply missed.