Happy New Year! How did you do over the holidays?

I was busier than a one armed paper hanger, and being busy occupied the time that I would normally spend grazing. I've had a really tough time managing the munchies, and participation in a more intense support group setting has really helped me a lot. I've gone from 4 pounds above my goal weight to 6 pounds below it in 6 weeks. I'm really thankful that I've had hte opportunity to participate in this group, which examines the reasons that we overeat, binge, or graze and I am finding that it's so in tune with 12 step programs philosophy that you should never let yourself get Hungry Angry Lonely or Tired (HALT), because that's when I eat. After losing 200 pounds, I am really afraid of regaining them. I'm right where I want to be and I don't want to give that up, so I'm working really hard to overcome the "head hunger" and get a grip. Anyone else have observations like that? It really helps to talk about them - find a buddy or post online. And get to those support groups away from the hospitals, where you can talk about more of the emotional follow up that needs to happen when you've taken this big step. Best wishes for a successful New Year! Janet RNY 11/2002, Bayview's Fabulous Dr. Magnuson 365/165 and Holding.

Hi Janet, Could you share a bit more about your group? I would be very interested. Are there other similar groups in Maryland? I know about OA and like it very much but desire the aspect of exploring these issues post-op wls. with other post-ops. Thanks, Mary

Mary, I don't know about other support groups at the hospitals, but I can say St. Agnes's support group meetings are open to all and at times can be very large but we do talk about the nitty gritty and are very open and honest regarding our struggles. They are the first and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 7 pm. Good luck on your journey.

Hi Janet and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! I've spent the past 5 weeks recuperating from my tummy tuck and hernia repair, been sore, swollen and generally exhausted! I maintained my weight over the holidays but did find myself grazing quite a bit as well as eating "emotionally" due to proximity to extended family LOL -- thankfully the "holiday foods" and the "relatives" are now outta here and I'm getting back on track, I still want to lose about 10 more pounds. I definitely want to hear more about the intensive support group that you mentioned. Now that my stomach has been fixed, I need to do some work from the neck up, you know, between the ears. Please email me with some more info! -BJ lap rny 6/04 tt 11/29/05 300/161/150??

Janet - Best wishes for a healthy,happy New Year! I believe at goal is where the "work" begins. We become more like the general population who watch their weight/health. I've found for those people it's a daily diligence to exercise, make good food choices, and portion control. My bariatric program has listened to their growing "longer term" patient population and we now have a 12 month calendar of topics to plan around. My program is at Sinai and post-ops meet third Wednesday of the month. There are segments for early post ops now, long term, men, women's issues, and lap banders. The key to post op program success is flexibility as your patient population/needs evolve. Studies show post-op participation is key to long term compliance. For me, this is the first year that I felt like I participated in the holidays. I baked again, had a busy party schedule, etc. I tried to make good food choices and when I didn't, this year, I did not "beat myself up" like I would normally. I told myself I'm entitled, I work out daily, I watch my intake, portions, make good choices, and one holiday was not the end all. A big step for me and I think made family and friends more at ease around me this year. Please post more information on your support group. The more resources available, the better for long term success. Best wishes, Lisa

Janet-- I just want to let you know what an inspiration you are to me. I know by seeing you that I can get through and do this thing! I'm proud of you for being under goal. You're such a valuable resource and a wealth of information for everyone. What a role model to have!!!

Hi Janet! It is nice to hear from you. I seemed to have survived the holidays. Now being 17 months out I am well past my personal goal. To my surprise it seems like the more food I eat the more I lose. I was maintaining for quite sometime bouncing between 132-135, and just last week when I really felt I would see the scale go up from eating what felt like continuously I dropped to 129 I am trying to maintain, I do not wish to lose anymore. I haven't posted this news yet but I am going to have breast augmentation in February, I am very excited about that and this Friday I have a follow up appt with my doctor for a pastfemale procedure - we are then talking about a hystrectomy so I am going to bring up the possibilities a mini TT. Cost being the factor. I am hoping to start a support group at the Brooklyn Park library. I will post once I have the details. I am pleased to hear that you are doing so well, I miss seeing everyone. Keep in touch. Patty 7/9/04 Dr Schweitzer 279.9/129 (well past my personal goal)