What would YOU like to hear in a support group presentation?

 Hey there-

I've been asked to give a little presentation of "my journey" at our next support group meeting. The group has people at verious stages- from 3 years out to pre-op.

I was wondering if you had heard any presentations that stuck out in your mind or if there were things you hoped people would have talked about?? 

Of course I'll focus on the positives but will also briefly discuss the challenges- I had a rough start with my stomach just not wanting to 'wake up' so I will address that, hopefully without scaring pre-ops. I'm also lactose intolerant, which is not a biggie.

Any other things you all think would be beneficial to talk about to the group? 

Thanks so much!

Maybe discuss how to deal with creeps of the opposite sex. I swear I wish I was a lesbian sometimes!!!

Actually, I think a great topic would be how you are dealing with your new smaller body.

No, dear Jenn.  You can find creeps on both teams.

Darn, it was a nice thought!!!!

I would be interested in knowing when you no longer considered yourself fat!  From posts and personal experience, it seems many of us still "feel fat" or "look fat" even when we have lost a lot of weight -- and that messes with our ability to keep eating correctly -- because we aren't  "seeing" results.

I think in presentations, people like to hear funny stories, to balance out the risks, bad stuff, etc.  So maybe something funny that happened.  Stories I've hear range from a person's own mother not recognizing her immediately, to a woman who almost lost her baggy pants at church. 

Lowest point (if there was one) and most satisfying point. 

If you are married/in a relationship - how did that change?  Supportiveness of SO or Spouse.  Or stupid things that Spouse/SO did that they didn't realize were stupid -- ie, kind of a concrete example of how you have to be sure to communicate clearly so they understand what comments are helpful/hurtful.

That's enough from me --let's see what other people want to know!

Id want to hear about the things that surprised you.... the things they didnt tell you about or didnt tell you enough about or the things you didnt expect...

As a pre-op I am always curious as to whether you'd do it again or not. How to manage the pre-op diet (mine is all liquid), hair loss???? YIKES, if you miss your favorite foods, what meal times are like with your family or at work. Wish I could come to hear your presentation. Good Luck!

Everything that other people said, but I would also stress that to be successful, it is all about changes in lifestyle and healthier choices. WLS is just a tool. We have to do the the rest. I think food tracking, support (face to face and online) frequent weighing, exercise (including weight training), not eating fast food, taking vitamins, protein first, are the tools for success.


Gail

Great suggestions!!

Thanks so much!!!!!!!

A good topic would be about those who lose large amounts of weight right
from the beginning versus those who lose more slowly and fight to reach
their goals.