I just created a meetup group for fellow bandsters who live in Northern Virginia. I want to meetup and talk about all the things we talk about on here -- just face-to-face. They move us through the waiting room fairly quickly at my Dr's office, so I've never had a conversation with anyone else who has a band. I believe having a local support system of other people who know what I'm feeling will be beneficial to my journey and I hope to provide the same in return.

Some ideas I have for the group include: Protein drink parties, grocery shopping and clothing exchanges.

Please sign up if you live nearby!

LAP-BAND® (or other Bariatric ) Surgery Meetup (Herndon, VA) - Meetup.com

I was just banded in 7 days ago...I live in Alexandria, VA if its not far, I would be interested

Did you check with your surgeon's office to see if they have a support group meeting? I'm about 1 1/2 hours West of DC out in the Valley and our hospital was just approved this year to start the lap band surgery. My surgeon's office have support group meetings each month and it's a God send.

Like you I didn't know anyone else who had the lap band, only gastric patients. And our surgery is so much different that it's nice to talk to women in our group that are going through the same things I am.

You are more than welcome to join our group. I realize it's a long drive but if you're interested in finding about our group or want a list of topics that we're doing each month I'll be more than happy to share with you.

Personal offline e-mail: gatlin39@yahoo.com

Good luck.

Smiley - yes, please sign up! I'll see where most of the members live and try to pick a central location like Tyson's corner to meet.

gatlingirl - Yes, my surgeon has a support group but it's at a time I can't make regular. I plan to attend next month's and see if anyone would like to meet outside of the Dr's office too.

I am definitely interested in hearing about the topics your group discusses! I'll send you an email.

Oops, the link is:

Lapband (or other Bariatric ) Surgery Meetup (Herndon, VA) - Meetup.com