Clearwater couple's 114 lb weight gain drives local advice column

A new local advice column is testing its first reader submission, and the question involves a 114 lb weight gain and a 27 year marriage. The letter, published in the Oct. 22 28 2026 edition of Creative Loafing Tampa Bay, comes from a man who describes himself as having a 'little big problem' affecting his relationship with his wife.

The reader, who signs off as 'Full Heart, Fuller Gut, Can’t Move,' states that he gained 114 lbs in the past few years. He explains that his extra weight prevents him and his wife from engaging in traditional sexual activity. He notes that they have tried to be creative but that the physical barrier remains. He mentions seeing online advertisements for special pillows designed to help couples in similar situations.

The writer asks if he should buy one of these pillows and surprise his wife with it. He worries that the act of introducing the pillow might kill the mood. He fears looking like he is introducing 'Orthopedics for love making' to the bedroom. He seeks advice on how to handle the situation without making it feel like a medical intervention.

Respondents Carly and Claire, who are launching the column 'Tell Me About It,' acknowledge the rarity of a 27 year marriage. They note that sexual performance issues can sometimes signal deeper relationship cracks. They explain that research suggests these pillows come in various shapes and sizes and can help with mobility issues. They advise that the pillows can be discrete and might be explained as ergonomic supports for aging bones.

The columnists warn that a pillow will not fix low cardio or muscular endurance. They recommend the reader consult a doctor before engaging in rigorous activity that strains the heart. They point out that the reader uses many exclamation points in his letter, which they connect to his physical state. They suggest that losing weight could be as simple as cutting out soda and taking a 30 minute walk every day.

They offer an alternative solution to keep his wife happy while he improves his fitness. They suggest he use his mouth, a method they say helps maintain intimacy during the weight loss process. They conclude that his wife will still love him even if he brings an oddly shaped pillow into the bedroom. The column invites more questions to rroa@cltampa.com.

The editors note that readers began sending questions to Carly and Claire within just a couple of weeks of the column's launch. The column offers alternate responses to those presented in Dan Savage's long-running column. Creative Loafing Tampa Bay accepts letters and op-ed pitches for consideration at the same email address.