Question:
Does anyone know where I can find letter from spouses and families of other post ops?

I was recently talking to a friend of mine who has had lap RNY, and I have my consultation with my surgeon on the 21st of January. However, I am having some problems convincing my husband and family that this is what I want to do. I am 22 yrs old, 350 lbs, and know that there is a much better life out there for me. I have tried every diet in the book. I thought that if I could find letters that spouses or family members of WLS patients have written saying what thier loved ones life was like before and how much the surgery has improved thier quality of life, it might help. Right now I can only explain it from my point of view. I know there is a letter at wlscenter.com, but I was wondering if anyone knew of anymore that are out there? I appreciate any and all response. Please don't hesitate to email me. Just click on my profile below. Thanks All! And good luck to all upcoming sugeries.    — Kylie E. (posted on January 7, 2003)

January 6, 2003
Letters are all well and good but seeing sucess is MUCH better! Attend support group meetimngs, make friends here and take a post op and their family to dinner.Seeing a post op a year or 100 pounds out gone does wonders for those who dont understand. Meeting Sharon Miller a member here convinced me and Jen is was the right decision for us.
   — bob-haller

January 6, 2003
My family is not interested in going to these meetings, at least not yet. This is why I want to show them the letters first, and then introduce them to the meetings. I am just looking for a starting point. Thanks for any and all responses.
   — Kylie E.

January 6, 2003
If you can't come up with letters, what about printing out some particularly upbeat profiles from this website - maybe ones with photos. That's almost like a letter. Hope you find what you're looking for!
   — ronascott

January 6, 2003
You can check out my profile which contains an entry from my wife, who was very nervous and apprehensive about the surgery. She now thinks it's the best thing I ever did for myself and our family. You can also email her if you want and she'd be happy to respond to you. My email is [email protected] Good luck to you! - Mike
   — Michael N.

January 6, 2003
I suggest YOU go to a meeting or two, and make some friends. Support group meetings are FRIENDLY places, dont be shy. We have ALL BEEN THERE DONE THIS! Then invite a post op to your home for lunch with your family, or something like that! Hear their story, see their pictures, and do buy a book or two. WLS was so hard to dcide on, but if I could of just seen a glimpse of my post op life I would of been able to relax and look forward to my new life.
   — bob-haller

January 6, 2003
Get the book written by Barbara Thompson. It is really an easy read and that was all it took for my family. They became huge supporters.
   — sandy L.

January 7, 2003
Hi there. I don't know if this will help you or not, but my fiance added a "significant other" section to my website. He basically just wrote about his concerns regarding the surgery. He also touched on the negative impact my obesity had on our relationship. Please take a look if you get a chance. My site is at www.geocities.com/jaxsites/christie Good luck and take care!
   — Christie S.

January 7, 2003
There is a wonderful letter written by the husband of a women who had wls that you can read at www.gastricbypassfamily.com. The title is something like "A Letter To Spouses and Family Memebers." Someone told me about it earlier today, and I have already printed off a copy and given it to my mother-in-law. She has been so upset about my upcoming surgery, and has raised every possible objection, but this letter really helped her her understand why it is so important that I have the surgery now. It is very moving and really hit home with me.
   — Lydia S.