Going to see long lost family- out of town

Hi folks! So, I've been nervous about several things since I am going to go and attend my brother's wedding in a couple of days which requires me to travel from the midwest to the west coast. Besides me being concerned/worried/recognizing my health limitations about existing health issues, I also have specific WLS worries and I was hoping that some of you may have some tips. Some of my 'worries' are dealing with family inquires regarding my weight loss/health, my change in eating habits (like not drinking while eating, only taking a couple of bites during a course, etc.) and what I will actually be able to eat while traveling. Family: I've only told a handful of friends and family that I've had surgery and I made them promise not to gossip or 'spread' the news. However, that doesn't mean that they followed my request. I've been heavy for the majority of my life and I am a lot thinner than the last time most of these people have seen me. I'm not close and/or I'm not on friendly terms with half of my family and I don't want them to know I had surgery as its not any of their business and typically any personal news about me they use to say crap about me, to make them feel superiour, to make jokes, etc. I don't want to lie, I'm morally against lying, plus I'm a horrible liar. So, anyone have suggestions for how to handle inquiries, jerks, etc. and avoid lying, denying, etc.? I just want to be prepared as that makes me emotionally stronger and I'm going to do my best to avoid the creeps that unfortunately for me are family members. Food: I will be bringing protein bars and drink mixes and be staying with my aunt who had the RNY surgery over a year ago. I'm just concerned when I go to the wedding what to do as it's going to be various dishes over several courses and that's a long time to go without drinking and it will definately show my eating habits (which is fine- I'm just concerned about not having liquids for the majority of the day). Any suggestions? Thanks so much- sorry if this is a rambling post! (I'm posting this as urgent as I'm leaving shortly and would love any advice) Jennifer N

Hi Jennifer, If you feel the need to explain the weight loss without lying why don't you just tell them you have seen a doctor and he has put you onto a new way of eating and exercise plan. This has helped you to lose the weight. It wouldn't be a lie it just would not include the part of surgery. If someone asks outright if you had surgery would be the only time you would need to think how you would like to answer them. If you don't want anyone to know you can just go on like you didn't hear them or just start talking about something else. Sorry I wasn't able to help you more. Enjoy your brother's wedding and have a good time. Heidi 267/170/147

Jennifer, If someone asks you how you've lost the weight, just tell them, "with a lot of hard work". We all know that's the truth. I think that just for this one day I might not worry about not eating and drinking together. It is really important to keep hydrated - especially if you're traveling. During the day of the wedding, just have a little of every course that looks like you can tolerate it and when you're full, push the food away and start drinking water. Keep your water intake up if you can. If someone asks you outright if you've had surgery, just say, "you know, I've really been working hard to get this weight off. Here's the exercise that I've recently gotten into doing" - don't change the subject completely so that it seems strange, just veer the conversation to positive things that you have started since surgery to get the weight off. You'll be fine! Have a great time at the wedding!! Enjoy the looks that you'll get and know if they're talking about you, it's with envy in their eyes!! Deb

Thanks everyone for their great advice! I'm off to finish packing. Jennifer