Support Groups

Hi Everyone - Yesterday morning I sent out an email to all of the people on my friends list asking for prayer and support. I have been on an emotional yo-yo that bounces from calm and serene to fearful and crying. The anxiety butterflies have invaded my stomach! The response from that email was incredible. One of the lines that I wrote was "I guess if I want my needs met, I have to ask for help." My needs definately got answered yesterday! The email support was amazing. However, Kim, from Springfield, invited me to her support group. Now, even though I have often refered my clients to support groups (and at times even made it mandatory for them), I didn't really think that I would need one. I went to the support group, and it is honestly the best thing I have ever done for myself. I found that the support in this group is essential in getting me through the surgery. I think that it will be essential, also, in keeping me on track after surgery also. There were so many ideas, helpful hints, compassion, encouragements, and kindness in this group that I look forward to returning. The people in the group were at various stages in their weight loss journey. I heard about how their families enable, or encourage and the reactions. I heard some helpful hints for personal hygiene after the surgery. The ideas for getting the vitamins, calcium and protien in were incredibly helpful. Mostly, I got the support I needed. I know that someday, I am going to not be quite so needy, and will be on the losers bench ready to encourage and be supportive to others. Right now, though, for those of you who are pre-opt, are reserved about getting out of the house into the public, I want to encourage you to not be afraid or nervous about going to a support group. GO.....it really was one of the best things I've done for myself for a long time. It's okay to need support, and we all need it sometime if not many times in this process....and someday, we will be giving support to others also. Kim, I want to publicly thank you for inviting me to the support group. I can't tell you how much better I felt after coming. The stress I was feeling is gone again...for a while. If it comes back, I know that it is normal....For those friends that responded to my email yesterday....thank you! That is what OH is all about! I promise, I will return to give support also! Sincerely, Gayla

Gayla, I am so glad you came last night. I truly enjoyed talking with you and the rest of the girls. You have been on my mind a lot today and hoping that things are still going well for you. Please let us know if you need anything. I will keep you in my prayers for peace and of course a successful surgery and a speedy recovery! Tara

You are too sweet, Gayla. I am so glad that you were able to come and that we were able to help. Your day is ALMOST here already ... only a few more days!!! Let me know if you need ANYTHING sweetie. Luv ya.

It was great meeting you Gayla. You will do fine with your surgery, and if you ever need any support, you know where to find us. I know you will be so happy on the loser's bench! Good luck!