support

[janszoo 16]

I am rather new to this site. My first appointment with the surgeon is January 6th, my birthday! I thought it would be one to remember! I am concerned as I don't really have a support group, my family and I do not talk, but I do have a few co-workers that are supportive, but they also have their own lives. I'm not sure I will have anyone to go to the hospital with me. Can I do this? I weigh 350 #, and know this is what I need. Today I'm just feeling overwhelmed and depressed. I'm reading all I can, and am uplifted by all your success stories, but did you do it without a lot of support? Am I crazy for wanting to change my life without solid support? There is one support group in the town I'm in, they meet once a month, and hope to go in January. Thanks to this site, I know there is other people going through what I'm going through.

[WLSResources/ClothingExch 3,443]

I do have a few co-workers that are supportive, but they also have their own lives. I'm not sure I will have anyone to go to the hospital with me. Can I do this? I weigh 350 #, and know this is what I need. Today I'm just feeling overwhelmed and depressed. I'm reading all I can, ... Am I crazy for wanting to change my life without solid support? There is one support group

Not in the least are you crazy. Your desire to make changes for your life, your health and your inner well-being say that you're sane as [fill in the blank with whatever tickles your fancy].

Anyone who might support you in an in-person way has other things going on in his life. No matter how much support is available, each of us has ultimate responsibility. You don't need someone to go to the hospital with you, but you will need someone to fetch you out when you're discharged; hospitals are required to enforce this to meet the requirements of their liability policies. (If someone volunteers to go with you, fine, but you'll really be busy enough with hospital paper work and being prepped for surgery that you won't have much time to talk with the person.)

Most definitely give the support group a try. Go to two or three meetings before deciding its potential value to you. Not all support groups are created equal. I still attend one on occasion where I found support and developed a couple of personal friendships that go beyond surgery.

You can do this.

[janszoo 16]

Thank you so much for the advice. You are right, it is our responsibility. I will try and remember this when I get scared. I will try the support group. I hope it helps.

[itsmesandy 3]

I am rather new to this site. My first appointment with the surgeon is January 6th, my birthday! I thought it would be one to remember! I am concerned as I don't really have a support group, my family and I do not talk, but I do have a few co-workers that are supportive, but they also have their own lives. I'm not sure I will have anyone to go to the hospital with me. Can I do this? I weigh 350 #, and know this is what I need. Today I'm just feeling overwhelmed and depressed. I'm reading all I can, and am uplifted by all your success stories, but did you do it without a lot of support? Am I crazy for wanting to change my life without solid support? There is one support group in the town I'm in, they meet once a month, and hope to go in January. Thanks to this site, I know there is other people going through what I'm going through.

You can hire a CNA for just a few hours a week. Put an ad like on Craigslist and be sure to interview the person before your surgery. These people are trained and can do shopping laundry driving. They are caregivers and will understand your needs. The interview will help you choose the right person for time of need. It should only cost like under $60 and have list prepared of needs before they get there. You might only need the ride and a trip to store but if you have it lined up you will be happy you did.

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

[WLSResources/ClothingExch 3,443]

I will try the support group. I hope it helps.

You also have Bariatric Pal. There are quite a few solid people sharing support and good info and ideas.