New here and have a support group question

My name is Peggy and I got banded on May 28, 2008 by Dr. Allen.  I been scared to post or comment on this website, but I came to the thought I need some support.  And thats why I am going to my first support group here in Bowling Green, Kentucky tonight.  So my first question is for those people that go to support groups.  Do you take anything with you (paper to take notes, anything)? And could you tell me anything that would help my nerves. (I am a very shy person and a little scared for my first time). thank you for you answers. 

You might want to take a notepad in case you want to write down suggestions, but it's not really necessary.  Try not to be worried  or nervous -- realize that everyone else there has gone through, or is going to go through surgery too, and are probably just as nervous.  It's always a bit nervewracking the first time  you go anywhere new.....but hopefully you will find the experience to be helpful!  And feel free to post here anytime....or send a message & I'd gladly help answer any questions you may have! Good luck & I hope you have fun @ the meeting!

Hi Peggy,

Welcome to the board and please don't feel intimidated by us here....were are the craziest tame people you will find on the boards!

I go to the support groups here in Louisville with several of Dr.Allen's patients.  The meetings here are laid back and fun.  Sometimes we take notes and sometimes we get handouts.  Other times we just wing it as it's not really anything you'd write down anyway.  Always be prepared though and take a notepad!

Generally we go around the room and introduce ourselves briefly.  Any talking after that is usually only if we have anything to add.  Tuesday night we played a game with proper eating and health tips.  Next month is a presentation by a plastic surgeon.  Lord only knows what the follwoing month will be!

Give the support group a try and if it's not your cup of tea no one will force you to go back!

Good luck!

Hi Peggy! I also had Dr Allen!  As far as the board goes...you just took the first step girl! The meetings may be the same for you as they were for me. I know the first one I went to I was petrified! My bf could not understand why...he went once and my oldest daughter went to a couple with me as well. They knew how I was and that I hated to walk in anywhere let alone speak up. The I met a couple gals on this board and saw them at the meetings. I was so scared to say hi to them. Becca was the first. Little did I know she was just as shy. I would watch her and these other two girls talk and laugh and really enjoyed and learned alot from what they would say. Well....next thing I know I am speaking up...talking to strangers as well as introducing myself and asking them questions about their journey. Now I have made some of the best friends that I have so much fun with. We talk and laugh and share. Just like we do on here! Dawn and Missy (the two gals that Becca spoke to) as well as Vicki, VickiR, Lachelle, Sandi, Nicci, and several others have become my support system. My family at home is not too good at this! We have alot of couples and even a few guys that come to the meetings and all in all...we have fun! We learn from each other! We all had to start somewhere....As far as this board goes...well if you have been reading it you know....you are out here with us now...ask or comment or vent away!