Why YOU should come to the RYD Conference! LONG

This is for anyone who is thinking, wondering or if they are "scared" or "nervous" about coming to the RYD Conference.
I have been a member of OH since 2001.  I was a BIG time lurker for several years.  While I was happy to read about EVERYONE's success, I still couldn't help but feel sad because I had NO idea when I was going to be given this "FREEDOM" from obesity.  While on the boards, I felt like the child that gets chosen last for a team or on the "outside, looking in".  I would cry myself to sleep, PRAYING that a miracle would happen and somehow I would get surgery. I had just about given up on this board when at the end of 2006, Debra F. pm'd me and introduced herself and we became friends.  I had been in contact with Debra for several months and she asked me if I was going to the Austin conference.  I told her I was not sure and she lectured me and gave me reasons why I should attend.  Well, I said YES I was going to come to the conference in Austin, June 2007. And then wks before it, my insecurities took hold of me and I got "scared" and said NO!  How can I go ALONE?  OMG...I was mortified...who would I "hang" out with, who would I talk to? Who would talk to me? 

With Debra's encourgment and patience...I said YES again.  I remember being in the parking lot in Austin and thinking I hope I look ok, I hope my breath doesn't smell and if no one talks to me, I will just smile and sit waaay in the back where NO ONE would notice me.  I went into the hotel and as I take a few steps, I hear someone call my name,  it was Tracy, Gina, Debra and Ramon having breakfast.  I gave a big sigh of relief.  I recognized people.  Right away Debra made me feel at ease, took me into the room, introduced me to Ms. Ann Harlan and sat me down.  Ann immediately started speaking to me and made me feel very welcome and comfortable. 

I had such a great time, met so many awesome people and was so glad I went, that when I heard about the next conference sponsered by NIX MEDICAL CENTER in SAN ANTONIO, I just knew I would have to go again.  The Austin conference had left such an impression on me I didn't want to miss out what was in store for the SA conference.  And well, those on here and that were at the conference, well, they know "the rest of the story"..... I made lifelong friends, learned valuable information, got an awesome goodie bag, met fabulous vendors, got to hear great speakers AND look at handsome Doctors. lol

PLEASE! PLEASE! Anyone who has ANY doubt or nerves or feels they wouldn't fit it PLEASE join us in Dallas.  I PROMISE you will not regret going.  You can pm if you have any questions.   I look foward to seeing YOU and my OH friends in Dallas!

Besos y Abrazos
Monica

ahhh girl great post... i will never forget when you walked into the hotel in Austin... i couldnt wait to meet you... i think i was more nervous.... but i am so glad you came.....  love you cant wait to see you in 8 or 9 days... something like that.... OMG.... work work work.....

going to be great....

I just want people to know how INSPIRED they can became just by listening to the speakers.  I know I was and my attitude CHANGED after attending one.  I just KNEW I was going to have surgery one day.... The conference renewed my spirit and my passion for helping others whether it was  by my community service, but especially by offering SUPPORT on OH. PLUS I LOVE meeting new people, even though I am extremely shy and VERY private. lmao... (Not after May 3rd I won't be) lol

And you sat & ate lunch with ME (and some other people - lol).......... 'Member - you 'Member...........LOL - Awwww, I can say ....... "I knew her when......"  GREAT Post, Chica!!!  Hmmmm, haven't you heard.... 3rd Times the CHARM!!! LOL  Can't wait to see both you Hotties.......

cant wait to see you either

I just wanted to say Thank you for this post.  I am a pre-op patient and I am planning on attending the conference.  I too am/was worried that I would be an outsider looking in.  I have posted a few times here on TMB and have had a warm welcome from several people but it is one thing to type to someone on the computer and meet them face to face.  Everyone here seems to know everyone else and that can be a little intimidating at times for someone new.  But I also know the best way to be a part of that is to put yourself out there and maybe just maybe I can be part of that too.  I can honestly say I am excited about the conference and getting to meet new people but I am a little scared too.  Thank you for putting my mind a little more at ease.  I look forward to meeting you at the conference!

You see?? THIS is what melts my heart.  This is EXACTLY how I felt too.  I did NOT know ANYONE on here either.  I was in your shoes girlfriend. I can't wait to meet YOU either!! hugs, Monica

Jenn, many of us have met and know each other BUT that does not mean we don't want to meet you and we do welcome you and all newbies to OH into our family.  We have all been in your shoes at one time.   Keep posting, asking questions and know that we are here for you. Hugs,

Thank you and I will keep posting and asking questions because I do want to be apart of all the support you give to each other and have already learned so much.

Jenn, so glad you are coming. I cannot wait to meet you! Trust me,  you will know ALL of us way too well after this conference :) Liz