Support group?

Hi, I am new to the site, although I have been reading member profiles for a while. I have my first meet with my surgeon in 2 weeks. I am looking for a support group near Medina, Oh. Even the Akron area would be good - anything so I don't have to drive to Cleveland Clinic every time I go to a support group. This is such a great site. Everyone is so positive and I've gotten the idea what post-op will really be like. Thanks, Cindy B. Medina

Cindy, I don't think that North Canton is much better for you but there is one at Perkin's by Belden Village Mall on the 2nd Tuesday of the month @ 7 p.m. It is very informal but Scott is really trying to get more information out to us. I believe that there will be a nutritionist there this month. Sue

I went to the North Canton meeting Sue's talking about. It's not what I need, it was just a group of people talking in smaller little conversations. I am struggling with issues (I'm 10 weeks post-op) and having a bit of trouble. I didn't get anything out of the meeting I went to the second Tuesday of August. But, I'm glad I went, I satisfied a curiousity. I just need a support group that's supportive. This wasn't. It was a group of post-op people saying "Well, I did this and I did that." That's not a support group - that's people just sitting around talking. I'd love to have a morning support group, since I work second shift. I wish I knew how to start one. I've requested information, and haven't gotten any replies. Julie Lombardy Akron, OH

Julie, To be fair to the group there is a lot of information passed on. You were sitting with a lot of people that were new to the group. Scott is working on getting speakers to work with us. The nice thing about it is all the long term post-op people who come, share their wisdom on what did work for them.....what kind of protein bars are good.....same for protein drinks. I get a lot out of them. I believe that in September there is a dietitian coming to speak with us. St. Vincent's is heading this group, and while maybe last months get together didn't work out for you.....maybe this months might. I also feel encouraged in the fact that some of these people have been exactly where you are in your progress....and they can relate to what you are going through. Just like on the message board....I sometimes get a lot out of the questions and other times I don't...... I have learned quite a bit from these gems! If I had specific questions that relate to my health then I call my dr.! I do hope that anyone intersted will give the group a try. I am always leave with loads of encouragement from everyone! Makes my month! Sue

I certainly didn't mean to sound inflamatory. I just meant that the meeting didn't satisfy my need, that's all. It was a LOT of juggling to flex time off work to get to the meeting. I work 1pm-10pm Mon-Fri, so it was very hard for me to be able to make that meeting. I expected "A" and got "B" - just not what I was expecting. It was, after all, a group of people sitting around a table talking. It wasn't a structured meeting like I thought it might've been. I didn't get "nothing" out of it, I did get a bit of useful information. However, it just wasn't what I needed, that's all. Julie L. Akron, OH