AZ Graduates?

Hi all, I haven't hung out here before but do chat bunches on the AZ forum.  --  I'm 4 years post-op and still in my goal range though I fight the battle every single minute! I'm wondering if there is an AZ Graduate support site?  Group that meets anywhere? (one that's non-surgeon/program specific anyway?)   I have bunches of friends that would love to get together who are weary of the same old newbie issues at the local support groups. Ideas?  Help?   Thanks! Joyce in az (I know...Duh!!!) [email protected]

I am also a grad, but do not know of any grad support groups. I live in Goodyear, AZ if you are intrested in starting one. Thanks, Diana

Hey Diana! Thanks for responding!  .....  I have an offer for a location and even a sponsor!!!  I work for Dr. Steven Gitt (North Valley Plastic Surgery) and he has offered his lovely surgi-center for grads to meet.  His office is located on Tatum and the 101 so it's accessable via freeway for folks from every direction.  I think I'll go ahead and get one organized and then give a shout out to everyone on this board in case we have some AZ lurkers who might be interested!  Hope to meet you soon! Joyce

Jojce that is great 4 years out and still at about goal weight.I am not from AZ but in the Pa broads .We have people that came up with the idea of meeting trice a year in the midddle of the state.There next get together is the frist weekend of May and they reserve a hotel and have support meetings and they walk around to get some exercise. The only thing I can say is find a place they will help you and your friends to form a support group.We also just had one form usuing a local hospital once a month. Wish you the best and keep up what you are doing,it is working right for you. bob

Wow Bob that sounds like fun!!!!  You must have some super duper organizers in your group of grads to get all the hunting and reserving done!  ......I LOVE your gorgeous state....wi**** were closer to my "not quite as lovely" state!  :) Huggggz, Joyce

Joyce,if you e mail lookin'tashrinkI bet she will telll her story and how she a few others got started. When you make the call to gras in your state on the broad go to your state broad and ask any grads there that might be interested in attending a support group for grads. This journey can be trying some times but it can be alot of fun too...........bob

I am not in Arizona, but just wanted to tell you I know what you mean.  Our local group is real geared toward pre ops and newbie issues.  And I just find that at over three years out I don't get alot from going anymore.  And others must feel the same way because they have all quit coming.  I am trying to get them to start a group for long term post ops.  Our issues are way different than first out. I know in Jackson, MS they have a group meeting for those 1 year out or longer that takes place 30 minutes before the regular meeting.  Then those people go into the regular meeting to help those newbies and to answer their questions.  I think that is great.  That is what I am trying to get them to do here where I live.   Good luck getting your group started.  Congrats on your success with your surgery too. 

It is actually a WHOLE hour before the meeting and it is wonderful - so I would encourage anyone to start one of those - get those other "oldies" to get together with you - I hate I did not start going sooner...... DeAnna