Relationship advice

I need some relationship advice. I'm 17 and was dating at 24 year old. I have been lying to my parents about it because I knew that would condone it if they found out. He isn't the most handsome man, he smokes, is a little over weight and doesn't have a very stable job. My mother told me I need to break up with him and has been making my life hell since she found out 2 days ago. She doesn't think he can provide for me and that he's a no hoper and that I can do better. I still really love him but I know we can't be together. Today he went to the doctors and got tablets to quit smoking, signed up for the gym and is looking at getting a better job. Once he gets his life sorted do you think I should see if we could give it another go? Do you think I should be leaving him and not liking back or should I tell my parents to get stuffed and start dating him again. He's completely heart broken as am I and feel so terrible. It makes me sick thinking about. I really just need advice! Please help!