Over the past couple of years, 7News has been following the courageous story of Jeremy Norman, 23, of Sunset Heights, Ohio.

Norman suffered from a rare disease called Froelich's Syndrome. His body had a difficult time gaining normal muscle mass and fat was very difficult to break down.

On Sunday, December 23, 2007, Jeremy passed away from cardiac arrest.

Many of Jeremy's complications came from gastric bypass surgery he underwent in 2004. Jeremy's weight spiked at 803 pounds.

Jeremy nearly died five times, fought massive bedsores and lost his ability to walk.

Physical fitness guru, Richard Simmons and Entertainment Tonight cameras visited the Sunset Heights native in the hospital. Simmons called the families home and checked in regularly with Jeremy.

Through his struggles, Jeremy's wife Roberta and family were at his side.

7News last checked in with Jeremy in June. His outlook on life was more positive than ever. He was proud to announce his quest to become a minister, a goal in which he succeeded. At that time, his weight was down in the mid 300 range.

Although bedridden at his parents home in Ohio, his hopes and dreams of helping others stretched for miles, thanks to the internet.

He was scheduled for more surgery in January to cut hardened calcium away from his hips.

Jeremy's mother, Kathy Bedway Norman, shared that recently came down with a cold and was having a tough time breathing.

Around 3a.m. Sunday, his struggles became too much.

He is survived by his parents, Kathy Bedway Norman and father Leslie, brother Jason and wife Roberta.

Jeremy's visitation will be Friday, December 28, 2p.m.-4p.m. and 6p.m. to 8p.m., Wilson's Funeral Home, Bridgeport, Ohio.

The funeral will be Sunday at 10a.m.

Although Jeremy had his own struggles he was always thinking about others.

Jeremy was in the process of growing his hair out for Locks of Love. His family would be honored if you would carry on his dream and donate to the organization in his name.