I am from Seneca (small town near Joplin). I was banded by Dr. De la Torre in Columbia on August 5. I have lost 70 pounds so far (both pre-op and post-op).

I am quite pleased with my progress so far. I have found a lot of help here which is great because to be quite honest, the Bariatric Center focuses mainly on bypass patients.

I was wondering if any of you all meet anytime through the year. It would be great to find others going through the same issues and maybe meet to trade clothes as we get smaller. I would also like to find an exercise buddy to keep me accountable throughout the week.

Congrats on the 70 lbs! Thats awesome!

Boone County Hosp has a weight loss support group, think its called Through Thick and Thin...we meet the 2nd thursday of each month. We have a clothing exchange also. Let me know if you are interested and I will give you details. I have met a few people there that also chat and post on here. Its great to put a name to a face and also meet people who are going through the same process. Lots of fun too!

Is it just for those that have had the surgery there or for anybody who has had WLS? I would love to join in. I think it would be great.

Some have had surgery, some are still thinking about it or waiting for their surgery date. Just send off an email to Stacie Cloven (src3791@bjc.org) and ask her to put you on her mailing list and you can find out when the next meeting is. I think its Dec 11th. They meet from 6:30 - 8pm at the Broadway Medical Plaza #3 in Columbia. You can come earlier because they have the clothing exchange at 5:30. Stacie can answer any other questions you might have. They were talking about the Dec meeting being a potluck where we can all bring a small 'band friendly' dish and recipies to share. Sounds like fun so come and meet everyone!

Thank you! Hope to see you there!