Did you attend....

Did you attend any of the support groups when you were pre -op?  I see there is a general one but it looks like most are for post op, as they should be. Any idea what they cover, etc? Thanks, Kim

Kim, I didn't attend pre-op, but I do now that I am post-op, and the meetings are actually good for both.  The pre-ops get to ask alot of experienced post-ops questions about what to expect right after surgery, and anything else that they may have questions about.  And the post-ops can help each other, too.  I think it is important for anyone going through this process to have some type of support group.

Tina

I attended three pre op, and was glad I did.  There is ample opportunity for pre and post ops to ask questions.  A lot of people attend even before they have insurance approval or a date; I didn't go until I had my surgery date.  The one is Kokomo is led by a local psychologist who had RNY 6 or so years ago, and he does a lot of bariatric counseling in his practice.  Some months there is a specific topic, other months it's led by the questions.  A great way to meet other pre and post ops and get your questions answered!

I'll miss this month's meeting, the first once since my surgery, but my daughter graduates from preschool that night.

I am a patient at St Francis Weight Loss Center , I think most everyone here is at St Vincents.  We are required to do two pre op support group meetings.  They offer pre op and post op group.  Pre op is for those Pre Op up to three months out.  Post Op is well obvious lol .  Jeannie

Attend as soon as you can.  Many people use the support groups as part of their monitored diet plan for insurance purposes.  Many of us attend Clarion support. They meet twice a month. One meeting is everyone together and for the other one they seperate into pre-op and post-op groups so the support can be geared toward that specific group.  Right now there are more pre-op than post-op attendees. Where ever you decide to go, just start now and don't be afraid to ask as many questions as you can think of. Good luck,

I've been to two support groups and plan to go to three by the time I have surgery a week from tomorrow.  I have found them very good.  I have gotten questions answered.  I have gotten questions I didn't know I had answered.  Each month there is a topic as well as the questions.  You get to know other people who have had wls.  It's great to see all the different stages all in one room.  I feel like it's time well spent.