Question:
When would be best to start a Support Group?

I am still preop. I have 2 more tests to go through before it all gets sent to the ins for approval. I have seen that there are a lot of people in my area that are registered here, however there are no local support groups. I would like to start one in my area. Should I wait until I and hubby are both post op before talking to the local hospital about a SP?    — Pookie B. (posted on March 10, 2003)

March 10, 2003
I have just gotten my first consultation appt with my surgeon and I started going to support group meetings a month ago. If I were you I would do it now because there may be people that you can help who dont think they have anyone to talk to about it. It has really been a comfort to have someone to talk to before this surgery:)
   — harleigh2002

June 23, 2003
It is recommended that the best time to start a support group is when you have been post op at least 2 years. I have to agree with that because you have been through the "researching" phase, the "pre-op" phase, the "new post-op" phase, the "healing" phase the "new learning to live with your new lifestyle" phase and "leveling off" phase and at last "The New You"! I had no support during my quest for the "New You". I struggled along the way. I had my surgery in 1995. I had an open RNY. I had NO support other than from my husband. I decided after I was 5 1/2 years post op that I didn't want others to have to go through this whole process alone as I did so I started up my own independent support group (NOT Physician affiliated). I also started up an "On-Line" support group as well. I am located in south eastern Washington state (West Richland - aka, the Tri-Cities WA). The on line support group is at: http://groups.msn.com/thenewyousupportgroup All are welcome, we have members from all over the US and one from the UK. Our group is totally non-profit, we run off of donations and a small profit from the sale of the vitamins our group provides for our members. If anyone wants more information about our support group feel free to contact me at [email protected]. We meet once a month. Anyway, I hope that helps with your answer. Warmest Regards, Carleen Golden Founder and Leader of "The New You Support Group" for Weight Loss Surgery
   — Carleen G.