Support group meetings..Do you go...

Hey Kat That's ok Its not for everyone & you do get what you need here!! I don't go as much to the one my surgeon office has because its more clinical because its ran by the nutritionist & nurse & they usually have speakers.( I only go when its a topic I really want to here about). I tend to go to the one that is at a local church & were more all like friends in the same boat (alot of them post on the Alabama board)we go out to eat together discuss our struggles, wls & non wls. We had a Christmas party at one of the members house (that was so nice of her) we all brought a wls friendly dish & played dirty santa with Christmas ornaments. I had a really nice time!! ~Missy~

Hi Missy, Boy, I was reading your post and could completely relate. I am usually only able to really spend anytime on line about 1 or 2 times a week - I wish I had more time but with the kids, our business, etc time just flies by. I also do a bit of "hiding", sometimes I dont want to talk to others about what Im going thru or how I am doing etc....its to difficult to explain to others who havent gone through such a huge transformation. And it can mess with your mind, I know. But back to your question - YES, I just started with a support group in January. We meet once a month and I loved the 1st meeting. It was refreshing to be around others who could relate and we were all at different stages. I got lots of info and some great advice on nutrition, vitamins etc....most importantly, I received support I had been needing and didnt know. Its made a great difference in how I see myself, and my journey. Im not done, and maybe wont be?? Not sure how this surgery affects us long term?? and so I've learned not to be so hard on myself for falling short now and again. Anyway, I'm glad I put myself out there and took a chance with feeling awkward because, for me, it paid off. How this helps! Kathryn 342/213/170

((((((HUGS)))))) Yes when we put ourselves out there it really pays off!!! You don't know how much you have helped me today by replying!!! I could feel your understanding!!!I am not very eloquent with my words & you said exactly how I feel. I haven't updated my profile since the night before surgery do to major complication(small bowel obstruction 12 days out,dehydration & malnurished had to be on tpn for 13 days had home health come tothe house) I was one sick lady!! it took about 2 1/2 to 3 mths before I could quit with the buyers remorse-depression. I am/was a lightweight I have felt quilty about even needing the surgery!! I have felt guilty because I chose not to tell my mom (she has alot on her plate & I didn't want her to worry-She had a nervous breakdown in 2005 when I told her I was having wls-her oldest sister died 5 yrs ago from a stroke while having wls) so in 2006 I decided not to tell her!!Then I had the complication & you know I just wanted my mom to be there but couldn't have her!! & last week I found out I have an incarcerated incisional hernia must go for a ct scan next week to see how bad it is & when I get set up surgery!!I am all out of time off for work!! We also have a family business (only 1 kiddie though).& tax time is our really busy time as people get there taxes & want their car worked on(hubby is a really good mechanic)I too am very fearful of what the future holds!!I did this to be healthy & be here for my family & am so fearful of a lifetime of surgeries now!! My surgeon has done all he can to reassure me & I really trust him but dang how much do I have to go through!! I guess I should just be happy to be here & to be able to eat pretty much everything that is on my approved foods-pouch likes everything hehe!!! Wow You opened the flood gates for me!! Sorry for unloading on you!!But I do feel better & I am going to my support group meeting!! I am so glad you enjoyed yourself at the meeting you went to & I hope it continues to help you!! You can pm or email anytime you want to talk!!!((((HUGS))))~Missy~

Missy, Its alright and even good to let the flood gates open! I know, like you I sometimes try to work it all out in my head and its too much. I'm learning when to let go and more often than not, just having someone "get" me, is enough to make me see the brighter side of things. I'm glad I could help and that is just abou the nicest thing you could say to me - that I could help someone too- because I sure post when I need some reassurances! Let me also say, you have gone through a tremendous amount of additional complications and that is really hard on you. I was reading what you've been thru and I dont know if I could handle any of it with grace. But getting through isnt enough, you need to shine and you will!!! Remember how far you've come by really seeing what you've done and be proud and allow yourself to feel that. You are an amazing testament to what we can endure, and do as mother, wife, daughter, person.....and hooray for you for trying to get back in touch with those of us who understand your joy and your frustrations regarding surgery. Keep smiling! Kathryn

I don't go to many support group meetings. They don't really help me much. Mine is more like a sales pitch for getting surgery. You and everyone else in this group help me tremendously. Glad your back Missy... we are here for you....

Thanks so much Jean!! ~Missy~

Hi Honey! It is SO good to see you back on these boards. I go to a weekly support group every single Sunday and it's a 45minute ride, but it's worth it to me. I can't be the supportive person I am unless i get to offload myself. Hugs, ANDI