I really need help, real help

Hello all, I moved to Florida a year ago March. I had my surgey in May of 2004. I lost 120 pounds but I'm desprately needing someone to talk to. I'm floundering, I've put on 30 pounds since I've been here. Where I was from I was very active in the Seminars, I would speak to the groups about my decesion and that it was the best deciesion I've ever made, would never give it a second thought If I had to do it again but I'm not drinking the water, I'm not exesiseing and I'm not eating what I should. I know this and I'm asking for help to get me back on track. I used to walk 8 miles a day and I want to find that dirve again PLESE HELP ME FIND THAT WONDERFUL HAPPY PLACE AGAIN, I only see this going very bad and I know it's my fault, but I need a support family or just one person that will give the encouragement that I need. I live in DeLand and I'm still not real familar with the distance other towns are. DO I HAVE A CHANCE! THANKS FOR LISTENING KIMBERLEY

Hi KimberleySue---I am sure that someone in the central FL area can help you out with finding a support group. Just glad you are now a transplant to Florida. We all know that back to basics is the way to go. You know those old "Pouch Rules for Dummies" etc. The heat in Florida is building up --so walking in the EARLY morning or late afternoon is the way to go--just make sure you are well hydrated before the walk. Make sunscreen your friend too!!

HI CINDI, THANKS FOR CAREING. I'M JUST REAL FRUSTRATED AND IT SEEMS SO LONG AGO AND I CAN'T REMEMBER THE "DUMMIES". DRINK "TONS" OF WATER IS ONE OF THEM. NO CARBS IS ANOTHER, BUT THE REST IS SO FUZZY, I JUST DON'T KNOW WHERE TO BEGIN, EXCEPT TO START WALKING MY A** OFF. I USED TO BE INSPIRED BY MY SURGEON, HE WAS ONE OF A KIND. REALLY CARED AND ALWAYS HAD A SMILE FOR ME. I MISS THEM, THE SMALL GROUP THAT I WAS WITH. WE USED TO STAND INFRONT OF 200 PEOPLE AND ANSWER QUESTIONS AND TELL "OUR STORY". I'M REALLY NOT NEW TO OH BUT MY THEY HAVE CHANGED A BIT SINCE I'VE BEEN GONE. AGAIN THANK YOU AND I HOPE TO FIND THAT SOMEONE OR SOMEONES REAL SOON.

Hi Kimberly, I live here in Orlando, probably about an hour away from you. I know it's hard when we fall off track and trying to get back on the wagon. If there is anything I can do, even if it's just to talk over the phone, email, meet halfway, please dont hesitate to contact me anytime!! We are all in this together and we can get through this together!! There's a few support groups that meet here in Orlando if you're willing to make the drive, just let me know!! You can e mail me at [email protected] Hang in there you will get through this!! Jo Ann

Hi Jo Ann~  Thanks for the invite.  What days and times do the support groups meet?  I really need a friend that knows what I'm going through and can help me get back in the right frame of mind without making me feel like a complete idiot.  Kimberley

Hi Kimberley, Sorry it has taken me a bit to get back to you. I have been sick for the past couple of days and in bed. One of the support groups meets every fourth Monday and usually starts about 6:00pm. The other support group meets once a month usually either on a wed. or thursday night and that one starts about 7:00pm.  Kimberley, we are all here for you!! Please contact me at [email protected]  anytime. Maybe we can meet up and go to a meeting together. Both groups are absolutley wonderful with great people and great information!! Looking forward to hearing from you, Jo Ann

Hey girlfriend, There is always hope for someone who wants help.  We all struggle, and we all need support and encouragement.  I live in Winter Park.  I go to a TOPS weight loss support group. 6 of us have had gastric bypass, and we go every week to this support group.  You are welcome to come, we meet wednesday nights from 6:15-7:15 ish.  Accountability is essential for success. OUr group meets in Longwood at the south seminole hospical on 434.  If that location is not good for you we can support you on line, or try to find another way.  Just don't give up on yourself Kimberly. Start by going b ack to t he basic diet you did post op, proteins, water and vitamins.  Stay away from all carbs except complex carbs.  Then ease back into keeping your protein up and go from there. Set reasonable goals, don't try to walk 8 miles today, but try to walk 20 min  times a week.  Go through your cupboard and get rid of the bad stuff, and start again. you can do this girlfriend. blessings, Tami

Hi Kimberly, JoAnn and Tami, Kimberly I will be here for you as will JoAnn and Tami.  I live in Ocala and we have a dynamite support group meeting at 6pm every third thursday.  It is almost 65 miles from Deland but I would recommend it to help get you motivated.   I am a light weight and a slow loser and I am feeling so bad for you, but I know you can reverse this negativity with our support.   Moving to a strange place is an example of how we can let ourselves be"BAD"  We feel lonely, sad and alone and that all leads to eating to make the heart feel loved and wanted.  Well we want you here and we will support you and help you get back on track.   Start with your water.  4 bottles of 16.9 oz daily.Just start slow.  But make sure you get it in.  Like Tami advised stop the fluffy carbs  you know the ones that make you fluffy in the middle, potatoes, chips, crackers, bread, pasta,candy, sugar...........Have high protein meals and use a protein shake if needed to get your protein up to about 80 to 100 grams to stop the cravings it takes about three days.  Ill be here  for you.  E mail me  [email protected].  We wont leave you stranded,  Right Tami and JoAnn    You will now start this tomorrow and keep in touch with us as we may be able to help you when you are tempted to stray.  Good lUck carole

Hey Tami, what does "TOPS" mean? I would love to come to a meeting if I can.

Taking Off Pounds Sensibly. Its a weight loss support group.  They meet all over the country and of course in Florida.   Its nicer than weigh****chers, because the group is run by the members.  5$ monthly dues and 24$ a year membership.  We have weekly contests and incentives for support.  There is weekly weigh ins and everyone there, well we all have weight issues so we can be supportive.  All ages come, men and women, although there are women in our chapter. When you reach goal weight, you  become a KOP Keeping Off Pounds Sensibly. That is special too, because you must maintain, so its accountability. You're welcome to come to our meeting, let me know. blessings, Tami