new here and looking for some buddies

Hi! I'm new here. I haven't gotten my surgery date yet but have been lurking on this and other forums for a month now. I've met all of my requirements for my surgeon and am waiting for him to set a date. I am a self pay so I don't have insurance to worry about. I'm looking to touch base with some people in my area. I went to the support group last night at CMC-Mercy and it was good. I was hoping for more of a place where I could ask questions. They did a power point presentation and someone spoke of her journey-which was awesome, don't get me wrong....totally inspiring. but I need some people that I can ask questions and opinions about stuff, know what I mean? So, anyways, I live in Mint Hill which is by Charlotte. Anyone else close by? Oh, and my surgeon is Dr. Gersin. ;)

Welcome.....I'm new here too. I live in the Raleigh area. I'm hoping to have the lap-band. I hope you get some good info=0)

Im in South Charlotte near the Arborteum which isnt far Presby Hospital does a support group the 3rd monday of the month at 630... its more what you are talking about. We usually go around the room in a circle and everybody talks and we will discuss topics. Sometimes the night will have a topic but its pretty relaxed! Earthfare also does a support group the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 630... Ive only been once but I know a few people here go. Both are close in the area so you should check them out! Welcome to the group!

Hey.. hows it going.. im also in Raleigh and I am hoping to have surgery within these next couple of month.. anyone esle close to Raleigh ?

Hello Christina, And welcome to the message boards. I am about 7 weeks post op,and I live in Waxhaw. And I have found these message boards to be invaluable to me on this journey. Take what you can use and filter the rest. One thing I have learned is that every surgeon is different, and has different requirements pre and post op. So the first rule is follow your surgeons advice first. Also the support groups are a wonderful source of information as well. You will make many new and wonderful friends on here. If I can help you, please send me an email at [email protected]. You don't give your age, but I am 60 years old and there are not a lot of folks that age out here! Hope to hear from you soon. JudieB

Hey Christina, I am in Mint Hill also. I moved down here from Western PA, 6 years ago and love it.I am pre-op with Dr. Voellinger and his group Southeastern Bariatric Surgery has a support group once a month on Monday's. They have a web-site. Check it out and see the schedule of meetings. drjco

It's so great to hear from you all! Do you think that people who haven't had surgery by that particular doctor can go to that support group? Should I stick with the one that my doctor does? I just went grocery shopping today for my liquid diet needs. I got all the jell-o, pudding, crystal light, etc. Tomorrow I am going to shop for my liquid protein needs and vitamins. What is your favorite protein drink?

Welcome to the Boards. I am right around the corner from you , we should have the same zip code ( 28227), cause my mail comes from Mint Hill Post Office. Don't buy too many protein drinks as your taste buds WILL change after surgery. My suggestion is to buy samples first. I can hook you up with some web sites if you would like samples. As for my favorites I LOVED protein delite prior to surgery, now I can't even look at it I prefer Nectar and Unjury now. Send me an e0mail if you would like to chat/ get together . I attend Dr. V's WLS support group ( southeastbariatrics.com) every 2nd monday Time: 6:30 PM Jan. 8 Feb. 12 March 12 April 9 May 14 June 11 July 9 Aug. 13 Sept. 10 Oct. 8 Nov. 12 Dec. 10 Where: The Cornwell Center 2001 Selwyn Avenue Charlotte, NC Directions: Behind Myers Park Baptist Church and across from Queens College

Yup, that's my zipcode! Glad to see that there are others close by and going through the same thing. I started my liquids and am on day 6. So far so good. I really thought I might starve or be weak but I am doing so good! I am currently drinking Body Fortress chocolate. I tried Unjury unflavored and chocolate and had to choke it down. I could really taste the protein in it. YUCK! So, I have some nectar on order and am going to see if my tastebuds agree with that and the Body Fortress for now.