She (MsJoy) is approved. Now I'm being supportive. "We" have to get past the stress test. Hopefully she'll be banded on the 28th by Dr. Jayaseelan, in Dallas, TX. Any advice for the spouse?

You have made a GREAT start just by coming here and posting!! Really, that shows an interest that many spouses just can't muster. You are doing great!!

The one thing my husband wishes he'd been better mentally prepared for, he says, are the times when I just had to leave the table when I was done eating. It really can take a long time for the bandster's brain to get used to the idea that the meal is OVER after only a small portion, and during that time sitting at the table while everyone else continues eating can be difficult. I literally had to get up and leave, and when that happens small children can be confused and the husband can feel abandoned. But it helped me immensely during the tough times, and I deeply appreciated his patience.

I hope we'll get to know you both. Welcome!!!

Thanks Alexandra, that's one area I hadn't even thought about. Luckily our kids are 25 and 23, but mom wants to keep them in the dark until she's got something to show them. She's keeping it a secret from as many as possible because she doesn't want to be thought of as "weak". You know, having to use a band just to lose a little weight. I'm just standing by her, no matter what she wants. I just want her to be sure that she's here as long as she can be.

I totally agree with Alex. I am not sure what weight / size your spouse is but I was unable to get into 30-32. Anything over that size is soooo hard to shop for. I say prepare for her to do some serious shopping, It is such an awesome feeling to actually go into a store and pick up something and say...I will take it!!

Huggs and good luck to yall.....Shirley

Shirley, I've already been put on notice and I'm standing by with the checkbook. MsJoy and I have been married for 30 years as of Sept 5th, 2005. She's 5 foot 3 and knocking on 300. I use to buy her clothes, but after watching them come out of the box and go into the closet for the last few years, I don't do that anymore.....I really want to, though.

All I can say that with your support, and Dr J as the surgeon, you got it covered.

C

Jack, could you suggest an emergency preparedness kit for those "new issues not forseen"?

And Cauerba, thanks for the encouragement. I'm just glad I found LBT. I would be willing to bet that I'll be leaning on someone before this is all over with.

But a great one

C

For sure...

Dont forget about the mood swings, the short circuiting of our female brains due to the loss of sugar, carbs. Those dreaded hormones that are going crazy for the drop in weight.

Just practice the follow .....YES, DEAR..... it will be your friend and keep you out of alot of trouble in the beginning.

ROFL....didn't you see? I've been married 30 years! I've got that response down pat.

Not to mention Pre-Menapausal Syndrome....FOCL

Cheri, I just saw that you are 2 days older than my wife. An early Happy Birthday! Where are you a Cafeteria manager?

Thank you, and I work for an Elementary school in Plano Texas

MsJoy has her stress test tomorrow at Dr Gopal's office. Just down the hall from Dr J's office. What should we expect during the test?

I did not go thru that. It may be because I was self pay, and insurance requires it.