Question:
Support groups in San Diego area? Anyone? Getting desperate!

I traveled to Orange County for my surgery - they have a great support group, but I can't drive the 2 hours north to attend the meetings every week (although I clearly NEED the meetings). I've scoured the internet for support groups in the area (San Diego county) and haven't had much luck at all. Does anyone have any advice? Alvarado hospital got back to me, but only has meetings the first Weds of each month (that was last night, so I have to wait another month). FYI, I'm 2 weeks post-op and am going NUTS emotionally and dietarialy (haha, my own invented word)! I'm gagging every time I try to drink the protein shakes my doc says I should stay on for the first month.... Thanks for your help, Michelle    — Michelle R. (posted on October 2, 2003)

October 2, 2003
Hi Michelle- first off I would like to offer myself as a resource to you, feel free to read my profile. I live in San Diego and have attended ALL of the support groups available here. IMHO, the very best group available is the Alvarado group, (last night was great), but since it seems you are desperate, Monday (the 1st Monday every month) there is a meeting at Sharp hospital-off 163/genessee. You enter where the Mary Birch center is and they will direct you to the group- Dr. Callery also offers on the 3rd Wed, it is in Santee at Sonrise, and Pacific Bariatrics has one the same evening at Scripps Mercy Auditorium. They also offer a food class on the 4th Saturday of the month. Remeber that not all programs have the same protocol. As for your protien drink, what are you drinking? and What is the problem, ie gagging, vomitting, diarrhea, just plain ick??. There are many different types/brands and many different ways to make it palatable. If I know more of waht the issue is I can be of more help in that area.
   — ~~Stacie~~

October 2, 2003
I too live in San Diego. I'm here for you anytime. 1 year post-op -115 pounds (264 to 148). e-mail me, and I will give you my phone #'s if you like.
   — Lesa H.

January 24, 2004
Hi Michelle, Feel free to contact me anytime. I am 6 months out and 100 pounds down. I am attending Dr. Clark's group Tuesday the 27th and I also attend Alvarado's groups the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month. One is an informational meeting and the other is an emotional support meeting - both are good! I hope you are doing better now. Hang in there! :-) Tracy
   — Tracy J.