Grief, loss and WLS

I lost my 36 year old brother, a father to two daughters (13 and 6) last week. It was completely unexpected, a shock and now that the funeral is over and I am beginning to integrate my normal life with this awful experience I am realizing it is going to be a long time before I feel "normal" again. Hell, at this point I would settle for one night of normal, undisturbed sleep! I am no stranger to grief and loss, I lost my mother 16 years ago when I was 23. We all know the adjustments we need to make with emotional eating and learning new ways to cope that don't involve food. At the time I lost my mom, my loss was so great that I actually couldn't find comfort in food, and I'm hoping that will happen again in this cir****tance. It has been an interesting week trying to eat with the stress (my band has hardly allowed me to eat) and I am realizing that this tool I have will require some extra special diligence on my part as I cope. I can tell you that I am convinced my being banded was part of God's master plan. The energy and health I am enjoying as a result of my efforts is giving me the strength to cope with this loss, and I'm proud of the things I've been able to do to support my family. Had this happened 6 months ago at my preop weight I would not have been nearly as capable of coping and I would be exhausted. I'm wondering if anyone else has experienced profound loss and grief with WLS. If so, I would be especially grateful if you woud let me know. I'm gathering the resources I will need for my support network, planning for the dark days that lie ahead. If you are out there, it would be nice to know I can talk to you! Yours in pounds down, Jen -105

Jen, Sorry I can not help you. You and your family are in my thoughts. Give those two girls a big hug. This is so hard on kids. I lost my father when I was 17 and had many years of trying to deal with it. Take care sweetie and if you just want to chat or vent please feel free to email me. [email protected] Kimmie

I am so sorry for your loss. Keep doing what your surgeon says and keep with family and friends who support you and your God and you will get thru all of this. it is never easy though is it? I'll pray for you. cathy