"The Event"

Hi everyone! I'm curious about the event in Cinci, will the event have information that will be beneficial to me, 1yr and half out from Roux-en Y, originally I had lost 100 pounds but have gained 15 back. (Falling back into old lifestyle) I want to go if it will be motivational to someone in my situation. I don't want to go if it is mainly geared to the really successful wls people or people contiplating having the surgery. I really need to get connected to a support group or start one in my area. I'm located about 2 hours north of Cinci on I-75. Any support groups close to me???? Sherry

I would hope the event will help you. Is it so easy to gain it back after 18 months. Scary after how hard you worked. Please come,I think it will be great for you, Cindy

Sherry, I do hope this will be something that you will attend, it does help you to get back on track. Many of the further out post-ops who have attended came away with not only support, but the friendships. You are NOT alone in your stuggles. There will be people there from various walks and stages, but this meeting is about strengthening and encouraging each other. I hope to see you in just a couple of weeks. Amy

Hi Sherry I have been very fortunate that Obesity Help asked me to pull this event together. I was two years out in June and I know what it's like to struggle..what I had hoped to accomplish was to gear the event toward post op..with that in mind I wanted preops to see and understand what life would be like after surgery. This is not a "cake" walk ..pardon the pun!! It bothers me when new postops tell me later, this is harder than I expected. I refuse to sugar coat anything..this is NOT easy and Sherry my friend you are not alone in the struggle.. I am more than sure that you will learn so much at this event, from other WLS patients, along with the incredible professionals attending. I myself have friends that have lost large amounts of weight, some of those friends you will meet that day. If you are struggling and want to come to this event for help..see me that morning, I would like to talk to you because I am where you are now..I will introduce you to others who feel and understand your struggle.. Come hear Dr. Lisa West-Smith, a psycho-therapist that deals in eating disorders. I have personally attended her sessions as a coach with Patients at St. Luke hospital..she is incredible. Terri Freshely a social worker who not only works in addiction counseling but she also had the surgery.. Steve Tomsic a motivational speaker and WLS patient.. We will have the areas most talented and gifted surgeons in attendance..not only are they incredible with what they do, but they are the most approachable and kind Docs I have ever met. I again feel very privileged that I was allowed to hand pick most of those speaking, here on the board you will read people saying the doc they had was the best. Well, I feel that same way about my surgeon...how can any of us who have been ill and scared not love the surgeons who saved our lives. The surgeons you will see walking around that day mingling, laughing and talking to the crowds are the guys that want to be there for us and with us through our journey..I have the utmost respect for each and every one of them!! They could have chosen a different career but instead chose to be a part of our lives. Although we want to make this a fun filled day, it's very geared toward support and learning.. I will do whatever it takes to keep my food addiction under control.. I hope every person that attends leaves with a new sense of accomplishment and strength, along with friendships they will keep for a life time! email me direct for information on cost. Brenda