Support Groups in Indian Trail/Charlotte Area?

Hi Everyone, I'm 3.5 weeks out and I just having a terrible time mourning my old eating habits. I know it's normal, but I just need some extra help. I go to my doc's support group, but that's more informational. I was wondering if anyone knew of any group therapy type groups that may be in the area. I'm really struggling, and really missing being able to eat and drink the way I used to. That is the one thing that really threw me off. I did all my research, but how I missed this I have no idea. I did not realize that I would never be able to chug a drink ever again. That is so automatic for me and it's near impossible to train myself to stop. So if anyone knows of a place where I can get help dealing with this, I would truly appreciate it. I'm starting to get very depressed. I have read that everyone goes through the why did I do this phase, and I knew I would too. I don't regret it, I just really need some serious help. I'm afraid that I'm going to go off the deep end and burst my pouch or something. I know I never really would, but I've had some uncomfortable moments already. I just realize that I really need additional help pretty badly. I don't want to ruin this surgery. If you read this far, thanks for reading

Hello there! I am new to this board and I live in Monroe, NC. I am not sure of a support group but would be interested in finding one. The psychologist I saw said there was one in the Ballantyne area. By the way, have you called the psych you went to? Who was your surgeon? If you are really needing to talk to someone who has been there, I have three friends that have just gone thru this. Two were 1 year ago and one was 7 weeks ago. I am waiting for a surgery date so I can't be of much help. What you are describing is what I am concerned about. The people I have talked to said to keep a journal, even before surgery is scheduled to remind yourself of why you had surgery. The two girls that had surgery 1 year ago have dropped to size 8 and size 10 from the 20's. I have heard that there will come a time when you can eat about any food you want, you just won't want large amounts of it. I'm sure there will come a time when you can drink a little more at a time, but for now, please be careful with the pouch. If you are really afraid of harming yourself, please call the psych that did your eval. If you don't think they were helpful, I can recommend the one I saw. He was great and understanding. I'm sorry you are going thru this and I dread going thru that, but I'm gonna do it anyway. I really want to get to the other side. Keep posting on how you're doing! ....Jill

Hi Fruit Loop (cute name), There is a monthly support group in Charlotte at CMC-Mercy Hospital's auditorium on Vail Avenue. It's the 4th Tuesday at 6:30. I can email you a map if you'd like. I know for this particular issue you are having, that's a long time to wait. You may want to post on the main board for help. You can also search the boards for previous posts and responses. I'm sure you are the first with this problem. As a matter of fact, I better go look that up myself so I'll be prepared! If you decide to go to Mercy's group, I'll be glad to meet you beforehand. Just let me know. Karen

Hello Fruit Loop , Hey , I live in Indian Trail and I know what you are feeling , I went through the same feeling of LOSS and saddness, I was so lucky to have a super nurtritionst ( Allyson Rutledge ) and a great group of " losers " ,,, they really helped me get by the terrible part , ( what you are doing now ) .... there is a group of us that have gotten together a few time in the area , just casual folks telling each other about our struggles. I will email you directly my phone number, give me a call , I would LOVE to chat with you about what you are feeling. Allison

Thank you all so much! Allison, I will definitely be getting in touch with you. I think I'll try out CMC too. That's where I had my surgery! It's just so hard right now. I've been very cranky. It doesn't help that I have not lost an ounce, rather I've gained a pound. I'm only 4 weeks out. Aren't you supposed to lose fast in the beggining? I lost 20lbs initially and now I'm stuck. The past 2.5 weeks I have only gained not lost!!!!

Hi Froot Loop, I am scheduled for surgery on Monday, so I have no experience to share with you, but I did go for the two hour seminar this afternoon, and from the information I was given, I can tell you that you need to call Heather or Jennifer at Dr. Voellinger's office. Are you eating like they told you to eat? I would think you should have lost more than that also. Please take care of yourself. After going through all this, you've got to put yourself first, and take care of your needs. Please keep in touch. BTW, I live in Waxhaw, and would love to talk to you. You can email me at [email protected]. Judie

Whelp, they said I was doing great at my follow-up and that it's normal to stall blah blah blah. The streak has ended and I started losing again. I'm now down 26lbs. They said because my starting weight was just borderline that I won't lose as fast as someone who has more to lose. According to them, I was only 90lbs overweight (Ha only 90, never thought I would say that LOL) Anyway, I want to lose like 120-130lbs. I have REALLY increased protein too (choking down 2 protein drinks in addition to my real food protein, got 101 grams today!!!!) ! I think that is helping a lot. It also REALLY helps being able to eat real food now. I'm not obsessing nearly as much, if at all. I did make an appointment with a therapist that specializes in eating disorders. I've struggled a lot over the years. I figure I want to give myself the very best chance possible. I go on Wednesday. Thank you all so much for your kind words and support :D