Support Groups

How many of you go to support group meetings? How have they helped? What would you change?

I go when I can, and I do believe they help. You can get first hand information about stuff that all of us go through. The experiences won't be exactly like yours but similar enough for them to be encouraging, uplifting, supportive, etc... What would I change, probably the frequency of the meetings so that I might be able to go to more of them.

I would have to agree with Toni on the frequency. Once a month is just not enough. I get so much out of being able to talk with other post-ops. Even when there is someone at the meeting who is struggling with a weight gain or other issue, it is helpful to hear of the struggles and get tips on how to handle them. It's also great to share with pre-ops because I feel like it helps me keep my focus on what I need to do for continued success. Plus, I like being able to encourage someone else who has struggled (or is struggling) with the decision to have this surgery. Susan

I have not been to a support meeting since I was 2 mos post op. I believe they would help me - at least I would be accountable to someone. In fact, as I've recently gained a little (okay, more like a lot) weight back, I'm looking for a schedule of support meetings in my area. I wonder if it's necessary to go back to V'bilt where I had my surgery or if I can go to Smyrna/M'boro where I live? Good luck.

Mollie, I would recommend finding a support group near your home. I think it would be easier to fit the meetings into your schedule. Plus, the people you meet there would be more local to you making it easier to support each other between meetings. Good luck in whatever you decide to do. Susan