Hats and Horns

Just some thoughts…..

It has been awhile since I’ve posted anything……might be due to…lots of writing(trying to get some publishing happening)….or…..just plain laziness. Any who…..I am wondering about support groups dedicated to WLS…especially when they include patients from different surgeons. When reading about WLS you come across information that varies….often it may be complete opposite from what you have been told by your doctor…[(example)..The use of drinking straws]. In group (at least the one I attend) often I don’t speak up because I don’t like being told I’m wrong….no but for real….I am immediately told its wrong or to be careful or you won’t lose weight…where is the support… Most of this comes from a group that has been treated by 1 doctor who has very hard rules…(when I looked at the post-op guidelines it was very regimented).  I have confidence in my doc because 1. He has had WLS and been successful….2. I have gone from 575 to 375 since September 10^th. I’m not being a prude about this...I just think what works for you works….Has anyone else had similar experiences?

Update….like I said since September 10^th I have lost 200lbs. I have gone from a pants size of 72 to now being in a loose 56…a 7x to a 3x a shirt size of 19 from a 24.  I am so elated. I have all this energy…am happy….and loving the choice I made!

Peace…Keith

Hi Kieth, I'm pre op so I really don't ave any advise. I did attend a Men's only Support Group at Centennial. There was a good mix of hospitals and types of surgery represented. Their next meeting is March 1st at 10:00 am this is a Saturday. I plan on being there hope to see you. Bob

Morning Keith! I have attended several support groups, not because I am looking for something I cannot find, but more because I enjoy and look forward to the support.  The main group I have been involved with is The Lunch Bunch.  We are made up different surgery programs and different surgical practices.  I think this group goes above and beyond the normal support group.  We have no real agenda, it's has a sense of community about it.  I enjoy that!   Yes, I might be told I am doing something different from their on Dr.s recommendation, but it is done with love instead of your wrong.  I also attended the Centennial support group on Tuesday night, and recently attended the Mens Support Group that Bob. L mentioned.  I would recommend if you're able, please join us on March 1ST. By the way...200 pounds is amazing, Keep up the great work.  And I look forward to meeting you one day!

Hey bigflip, WOW 200 lbs!  That is absolutely amazing!  You are doing wonderful!!! Did I mention that you are doing wonderful!!!???  Wow... 200 lbs!?! I do not attend a support group.  I do, however, sign on and attend several support forums each day, sometimes 5 times a day!  I go to three different bariatric websites, and yes there are a lot of different "rules" but overall I follow the great plan that my surgeon gave me.  There is one thing right now that I am questioning from my doctor's office, and I do have an appt on Thursday with him for a follow up appt.  I will be discussing this info with him...  has to do with eating only 3 meals a day and no protein shakes.  Either I eat 5x or 6x a day and protein supplements, or I get low blood sugar...  we'll be chatting about this.  But its more about info the nutritionist gave, not him. I love my doc! But the thing is, there are tips that people have found out during the journey and they share them here...  if we ever come across too strong, it really is because we've found out the hard way.  For example, when I hear someone say they went to Smoothie King, I had a horrible dumping episode from something I bought there.  It makes me want to scream NO PLEASE DONT GO THERE!  IF YOU DO, MAKE SURE YOU WATCH THEM MAKE YOUR DRINK!  Tell them NO strawberries in that thick syrup!!!  lol.  I would never want anyone to feel that awful sick feeling I experienced from a drink "gone wrong"! I do attend the lunch bunch, but I dont event hink of that as a support group!  We have too much fun. 

OK...It's a "FUN" support group!

Hey Keith! I do not attend any support groups except lunch bunch. You should join us sometime we would all love to meet you. Congrats on losing 200 lbs, I know how awesome it feels. Keep up the great work !

Hi Keith!

You are amazing!  I'm glad to hear that you are looking for a support group because I think the folks from right here on this board have the best one!  Now don't get me wrong...I love Baptist's support group but I think that the Lunch Bunch addresses more of my needs.  I really don't do well when other people "preach" to me as if their's is the only way.  I am an educated person and I resent being talked down to if I have a different method that also works.  Honestly...I have not experienced any negativity with the Lunch Bunch.  It is more like a monthly victory party!!!!

I hope that you will give it a try and let us have a chance to get to know you in person.

Big smile!

Freddie

Freddie, that is a perfect way of putting it.  "A monthly victory party."  It is a great time of getting together with other "friends" who understand and if  you have questions....there are answers....sometimes, most times, it is just a great experience with friends.   Congrats Bigflip on your 200# that is wonderful.  Always, Tawnya

Congrats on losing 200... just do what works... it seems to me if you are having success then why rock the boat. My sister had hers in Nov. I think it was and saw her the first time this weekend and she has lost so much. I am happy for her and for you.