how do I start a support group for graduates?

my doctor had a wonderful support group each month but now that I am over 3 1/2 years post op, I am not benifiting from this group.  I asked him if there was a support group of people who are futher out and are mainting and he said no but I could start one??ME?? I have no idea how to do this... any advice? Donna R

Do you think you an get referrals from his office? THat's how we launched ours. Eentually, someone decided all groups shoull be standardized and someone (who was clueless about how WLS ppl should be treated) was brought in to "teach" us how to o what we'd been doing for years. So, some of us said we were not going with the new format, wherein the ppl were treated like idiots.

So now, the groups travel by word of mouth only. Back in 1995, we didn't have online resources.

Now, you migt continue going to the office sponsored ones and personally invite ppl to start a long term group with you. We continue to attend newbie groups (even tho we are often bored stiff) in order to invite the longer terms to our group, AS WELL as keeping a hand in the bring the newbies along.

I'm not suggesting you steal ppl, but invite them to do a Grad group ALSO.

thank you. that was one thing I was thinking about because some people have been coming to the monthly meetings for years.  there was a meeting tonight but I missed it.  I went to physical therapy today and my muscles are still screaming... I will also let my surgeon know if I start a support group and he can pass the word around too. Donna

Hi Donna! I think that's a great idea! I had problems with my local support group last month and was very disappointed b/c as you said, they were not addressing ANY of the long term issues that we face and I really feel that NOW is when I need alot of support! I considered starting my own group too, but after emailing both surgeons, I will give them another try to see what they come up with. If you do form a group, please let me know how it goes for you! Good Luck!

All you need is a few people who are interested.  That's how my group started. The first year we didn't have many come but now more people are coming -- as word travels. Good luck! Deb

See if he will sponsor you to take the training through Obestiyhelp.com. My doctor did and I did the training and now I am a co-leader of our group. We have talked about starting a 1 year and out group too but for now just let anyone come and we have lots of fun. Obesityhelp does all their training over the phone through teleconferences. There are 3 sessions and it is very good training. Ask your doctor to sponsor you! Diona

when did the doctor sponsor start? the training is free....