Support Group
Meeting and talking with others who have undergone weight loss surgery is very important to the success of your weight loss. Support groups have proven to be an essential part of the recovery process for many patients, and research shows that persons who regularly attend support group meetings have better success with their long-term weight loss. Patients, people considering gastric banding surgery, family members, and other support-persons are welcome to attend our monthly support group meetings.
The LAP-BAND support group meetings focus on helping patients make lasting adjustments following surgery. The meetings may also provide emotional and behavioral support for those trying to make significant lifestyle changes for their health. Because this surgery requires extreme changes in behavior and lifestyle, we want to make certain that you continue to receive the support and guidance required to ensure life-long weight maintenance.
Our support groups are moderated by mental health professionals, registered dietitians, exercise experts, a nurse practitioner, the bariatric navigator and the bariatric surgeons. Topics that will be covered in the support groups include:
- Tips on eating healthy
- Emotional issues with weight loss
- Taste testing and fun snack ideas
- Behavioral changes for long-term success
- Coping with holiday stress
- Establishing an exercise routine
- Importance of strength training
- Exercise progression
- Cardiovascular fitness
- Hear the weight loss stories of LAP-BAND® surgical patients who have already undergone the procedure (post-op patients are often present at support group meetings)
Meeting Schedule
- January 24—Let’s start the New Year off right! Ever look at all the options at the grocery store and feel completely overwhelmed? Ever wonder if you’re making the BEST choice? Join us as Sara Wilfong, R.D. takes us on a grocery store tour and helps decipher which options really are the best.
- February 28—Feeling stressed? Join us for some relaxation and guided imagery where we’ll explore ways to relax and take care of ourselves.
- March 27—The incredible edible egg! There are an amazing number of ways to prepare an egg and with only 70 calories and 6 grams of protein, it’s always an option. Bring your favorite egg recipe to share and we’ll taste test some prepared egg dishes.
- April 24—Let’s dance the night away! Join us for a night of Zumba for any fitness level led by the RMH Wellness Center.
- May 22—Female Health is a big issue after weight loss surgery. Dr. Nina Smith, Ob/gyn, will share with us the secrets to women’s health after surgery.
- June 26—Summer isn’t complete without a few outdoor picnics. And what’s a picnic without games? We’ll meet at Hillandale Park for some outdoor game time. No skills required. Bring a volleyball, basketball, jump rope, hula hoop or even a Frisbee and we’ll find a way to have some fun! There’s also a hiking/biking trail for those that would prefer just to take a walk or ride a bike.
- July 24—Fast Food Frenzy! Life gets busy and sometimes we find ourselves hitting the fast food joints for a quick meal. Join us as we navigate some fast food menus and figure out ways to make the best choices when dining for convenience.
All meetings are held 7-8:30 p.m. in the first floor conference room of the Medical Office Building, 2006 Health Campus Drive, Harrisonburg. For more information contact us at 540-689-5646. |
