Support Group Update

Not sure if you all remember how upset I was a month ago after my support group meeting. Well, if you do I have to say I went last night and it was MUCH better!! YEAH!! They even came right out and said that they  had a few complaints that too much time was being spent on preop issues so they were going to try and focus mainly on postop issues~I thought that was great! There is no post op meeting in Nov b/c of Thanksgiving, but they asked me if I would share my story at the December meeting~I'm slightly reluctant b/c I'm not a good public speaker, but I'm going to do it. So, I'm feeling better about things. I guess sometimes its ok to speak up for what's important to you!!!!!!

I think I am going to go ahead and attend group next Tuesday in my area. My surgeon has a full time counselor and there are two sessions per month for post-op past 6 months. Hopefully I will get some encouragement to get back on track.  Hopefully I won't scare anyone with my re-gaining weight, but I can let them know about the possibility. Save yourselves!!! Stick with the rules!!! -=db=-

I hope you are able to go db. You are working so hard toward your goals and the more support you have the better!

Tracy I want to wish you the best of luck in Dec. at your support group meeting. Just remember as you stand in front of all of them. You are proud of who you are and what a amazing journey you have had. And at one time you where the little cocoon that faced all of the issues that everyone else had in your support group at one time or other. But you are imo so amazing you aloud your self. To become the most beautiful butterfly there is and are. Willing to share your journey with everyone else. Remember as you stand proud in front of them all .You will no who your true supporters are. And who cares what other think or say. As long as you know deep in your heart that you have help at least one person get back on track. By sharing your journey with all of them. Trust me if you let me know when the support meting is. I will be there for you. As long as we do not have 10 inches of snow back here lol Again I wish you the best of luck. And hope you and your family and friends have a wonderful holidays. Taichi

Thank you so much for your encouraging words! When I find out which meeting it will be I'll let you know.

I was also unable to speak (actually even STAND) in front of groups before. The first time I was called as a speaker for a group of ppl I didn't know, I was sure I would swallow my tongue. In fact, when I met my hostess at the airport, I was ready to get back on the plane! BUT...........

Now, I just remind myself that just ONE sentence I say could save a life. (or not), and so it's just way easier than it was. THey didn't invite me to speak so I could be focused on ME, but I need to focus on THEM and who are they? I always ask them about them before I speak, because I need to "know" them.

You might find you are really relaxed if you realize that the story you are telling about YOU could help 1 or 3 or20 ppl in the room.

Great advice Michelle! I would be thrilled if I could help  even 1 person! Thank You!!!

Michelle,

You are so right. You need to focus on the audience and not on yourself. You are a wealth of information to the rest of us who aren't as far out as you are...We all need someone who has been there, done that...

Good luck with the meeting...We're cheering you on from over here...

Dawn

Thanks for your support and I'll let ya know how it goes!

Tracy - I understand about the public speaking but you are an amazing person who always gives support and understanding on the Board.  I think you would be an excellent guest speaker!!!  I have to give classes to my department once a year of changes going on and I find one person (usually a good friend) that I focus on and then as I am talking I look around the room but always go back to that reasuring face!    I think you will do great!  You have been an inspiration to me and others!  They are lucky to have you come and speak the truth.... about food issues, head issues, the love/hate relationship we have with the scale, family and friends and their reactions.  You have been through it all and I could not think of a better person to tell it like it is!    Good luck! Valerie :)