Hi. I was wondering if anyone could advise me on how i can prepare myself to support my partner before and after his gastric sleeve op in 5 weeks time. He's having the op due to being diabetic. He is only slightly over weight. He's not able to do as much sport and training and is keen to get back to a similar level as he was a few years ago. So, what kind of support have people found they needed? Was it more about being able to talk openly to your partner about how you feel? Were there mood changes? How did you keep yourself motivated those first few days after the op? Any tips or ideas are greatly appreciated.

Everyone has different experiences post op, but here are some key points:

1. Yes, there can be mood changes. Running on a caloric deficit toys with our emotional stability.

2. It can take surprisingly long to regain strength and energy. It took me 3 months before I felt normal. Your partner may recouperate sooner, but it's good to be prepared.

3. The surgery might not fix the diabetes. The sleeve can help some people, but the bypass has better long term effectiveness. This is something to discuss with his surgeon.

4. I'm not really sure what you mean by "motivated" right after surgery. The first two months postop are all about relearning how to eat and drink and healing. The doctor will prescribe a diet, and it needs to be followed to the letter.

After those first couple months, then motivation will factor in with keeping up a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Your job is to be a sympathetic ear, and a voice of reason. You should say, "no, we don't need those doughnuts, how about this nice chili?" And whatever you do, don't be the one bringing in the doughnuts!