My wife had gastric bypass last Monday... She had no problem physically but is undergoing MANY emotional issues. It is like she went through a terrible divorce overnight. Her best friend/confidant/lover "food" became her worst enemy. So, she and I think many GBS patients need compassionate care and understanding with lots of support and encouragement. Since she is my wife, I have had to step in and help her deal with questions and concerns that need to be addressed with medical people who may have the answers but not know how to get that across to patients. Anyway, gifts of food or food items wouldn't be a great idea in my experience. Also, voicing your ideas or take on what's happening may not be the first thing to offer. Each patient seems to go through this in his/her own way..... you have to let them do that and sometimes stand back and let it happen no matter what you think. But do advocate for them to be good decision makers. She gained 14 pounds within 2 days of surgery. I had to question the surgeon why he stopped her lasix and behold when she was put back on it, she lost 14 lbs in two days (all water retention after surgery!). Her blood sugar dropped into the 60's and until I called both surgeon and primary caregiver and took her to them, they wouldn't stop her diabetic meds, but now she is off both and doing fine with blood sugars of 100..... seems diabetes may be under control in only 2 days! Help your relative stay focused on the prize at the end of the journey (although it never ends) losing weight is only the first prize-- ending or controlling diabetes, hypertension, etc. saves lives!
. I think gift cards for clothing is a nice idea, but wait till the lbs start dropping off so it doesn't make your relative feel pressure to achieve a smaller size.
