Avoided putting my foot in my mouth

So this weekend I was visiting with family. My nephew was there with his girlfriend. I'm fairly open with my family about my surgery, but wasn't sure what my nephew know about it. He ended up asking why I was talking calcium, and I explained to him about the malabsorption from surgery. He reminded me that his girlfriend's sister died as a result of complications from weight loss surgery.(He wasn't being malicious, as in why'd you do that, just commenting). And I remember when she passed and knew the reason, but genuinely had forgotten. Had I remembered I would have worked harder at avoiding the conversation altogether.

I'm just happy she had gone to work when this conversation took place. I would not have wanted to bring painful memories back for her. The whole thing brought me out if my weight loss euphoria to realize how lucky I am to be here and, successful without complication.

I tend to think things happened for a reason.  It's reasonable that you would have forgotten, especially if she wasn't close to you, or it was a while ago.  You probably needed to have this conversation to be reminded of the situation, so that when it comes up again in front of her (and it most certainly will if you see her enough) you'll remember and will be able to be sensitive to that situation, mentioning how grateful you are, etc.  

If you are feeling bad about it (I can't quite tell from the tone of your note) -- don't.  Sounds like this conversation was meant to be. 

It's good for all of us to have a reminder once in a while that this thing we did was very serious, and we are very fortunate to be here, and to have been given this chance (or for some us us, multiple changes).  Thank you for sharing this, and providing all of us with that reminder. 

I'm sorry to hear about that. I'm glad you avoided stepping in it.