To the bears that have been banded. What has been the reaction in your local community? I maybe jumping the gun since I don't even go for the orientation until 2 weeks from tonight.

To the bears that have been banded. What has been the reaction in your local community? I maybe jumping the gun since I don't even go for the orientation until 2 weeks from tonight.

My partner and both got banded at the end of July 2011. Both Of us are bears.

Most of our friends are very happy fOr us and are encouragIng. Some just dont understand.

We chose to band to be healthier. I started at 385 and am at 335 now.

I am 6'3...even at my lowest weight as an adult (220), I am still a big guy.

I'm sure by now you have been banded?

You may find some people react differently to you. It's not you, it's them.

More later...just joined today.

What's a bear?

A bear is a gay or bi-sexual man who is masculine!

Actually have not been banded yet. 3 month minimum required medically supervised diet with a 10% weight loss. Was approved last week and have my surgery scheduled for October 3.

Yes Bears are usually masculine gay or bisexual man. Tend to be on the hairy side and tend to have a belly.

Ahhhh, thanks for educating me