Any Wichita Support Groups?

XXXLnomo · January 15, 2009

Greetings all. I just got banded on 1-13-09 and was hoping to connect with others in the Wichita area who have also been banded. I noticed much success in the KC and OP areas, but its a little more distant than I'd like. I'm sure the journey is easier as a group than going it alone. Hopefully other banded Wichitans feel the same.

MidWestGal · February 2, 2009

Hello XXXLnomo:

Contrats on your surgery! How are you doing with everything so far? I am from Wichita as well and am having my band done thru WTLSC in OP. I will be going for my pre-op on2/13 and hope to get a surgery date soon after. I don't know where you got your band, but I know that WTLSC do have a local support group thru the Wichita office. However, I am thrilled to her from another Wichita bandster and hope we can lend support for each other throgh our journey to a thinner body. Did you get your banding done here in town and who did you use? Are you happy with the results so far? I would like to hear about your experiences as I have yet to go through it. Look forwad to hearning from you.

XXXLnomo · February 3, 2009

Greetings MWG! Congratulations on your life-saving decision. Your journey will be one of a little pain, a lot of compromise and adaptation, but mostly - one of freedom. I had my surgery performed in Denver (Dr. Kirshenbaum) on January 13th. 13 is my new lucky number. I'm a self-pay patient. I found Dr. K to be very experienced, compassionate and reasonable. From everything I've read, the WTLSC surgeons are very good as well. I just could not afford them.

Even though my first fill is scheduled on 2/13, I have already lost 20 pounds. Most of it is from changing bad eating habits and exercise. Plus, I am learning what I can - and cannot - eat. Much of it is by trial and error, but the key is to listen to your body. If food gets "stuck", it's usually because I was eating too fast or trying to eat food I'm not supposed to (pancake for instance - big mistake).

I'm not sure, but I've heard that the WTLSC meetings are only for their patients. I should confirm that for sure. Regardless, support is critical and you should attend as often as you can.

You are taking a huge step toward living again. Don't look back. Just keep listening to your doctor, keep exercising and stay focused on your goal. The end result is worth whatever challenges you might face. Let me know how things proceed. Good luck and keep in touch! Maybe we'll get to watch each other shrink!