Genesis Center For Bariatric Surgery

Support Group - "Images - Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery"

If you have had or are considering gastric bypass surgery, Images offers a comfortable place to talk about the changes that occur with surgical weight loss.  There is no charge for the support group, and you can bring a support person with you, if you wish. 

Images will be held in the Conference Center, Genesis East Campus, 1230 E Rusholme Street, Medical Office Building II, lower level.  The Images Support Group is facilitated by Teresa Fraker, RN, Bariatric Surgery Program Manager. 

Dates of 2008 Meetings

January 16, 2008	July 16
February 20	August 20
March 19	September 17
April 16	October 15
May 21	November 19
June 18	December 17

All meetings are held from 6:30 - 8:00 pm.  You do not need to register to attend Images.  If you wish to call and find out what the topic of the month is, feel free to contact our office at 563-421-8361.

Support Group For Those 12 Months Post Surgery

There is also a support group for those who are 12 months post surgery.  This group meets every other month from 5:30 - 7:00 pm in Medical Office Building II, lower level Conference Center.  You do not need to register to attend.  Denise Strathdee, our Dietician will be facilitating the group, and the group will be a "working" group with small group participation, activities, etc.

January 8, 2008	July 8
March 4	September 9
May 6	November 4

Lap Band Support Group

All meetings occur from 6:30 - 8:00pm.  There is no charge for the support group, and you can bring a support person with you, if you wish. 

May 22 (Center for Bariatric Surgery)	September 25 (Center for Bariatric Surgery)
June 26 (Center for Bariatric Surgery)	October 23 (MOB I Interconnect Lounge)
July 24 (MOB II Conference Center)	November 20 (MOB II Conference Center)
August 28 (MOB II Conference Center)	December 18 (MOB II Conference Center)

Registration is not required to attend any of our support groups but you may note your plans to attend by registering online.    

The Importance of Support

The changes in your diet and lifestyle after surgery will last a lifetime. And you'll have a greater chance of long-term success if you surround yourself with people who understand and support your goals.

Things you can do:

• Help your friends and family members understand why you've chosen a surgical solution. Many people are under the impression that weight loss surgery is an experimental treatment rather than one with more than 40 years of history. Direct them to this web site or others in our Additional Resources section. It's important that they understand that morbid obesity is a disease and that diets don't work for you.
• People who are morbidly obese often report that their spouses, or others close to them, seem to discourage weight loss. These people see your weight as part of your identity. Understand that this is a fear of change. Discuss your reasons for having surgery. They need to know that your health is at stake and you will be counting on them to help you during and after surgery.
• Surround yourself with people who share your situation. Ask questions and receive answers in a supportive environment. Form a network to share recipes and exercise tips. It's important for you to know that you are not alone. There are knowledgeable, friendly people available to support and help you.