"Images" Support Groups

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, Adjustable Gastric Band and Sleeve Support Group

If you have had or are considering gastric bypass surgery, Images offers a comfortable place to talk about the changes that occur with surgical weight loss.  There is no charge for the support group, and you can bring a support person with you, if you wish. 

All meetings are held from 6:30 - 8:00 pm.  You do not need to register to attend Images.  If you wish to call and find out what the topic of the month is, feel free to contact our office at 563-421-8361.

2011 Meetings

January 19 - MOB II East Conference Center	July 20 - MOB II East Conference Center
February 16 - MOB II East Conference Center	August 17 -MOB II East Conference Center
March 16 - East Interconnect Lounge	September 21 - MOB II East Conference Center
April 20 - East Interconnect Lounge	October 19 - MOB II East Conference Center
May 18 - MOB II East Conference Center	November 16 - East Interconnect Lounge
June 15 - MOB II East Conference Center	December 21 - MOB II East Conference Center

East Interconnect Lounge is located between Medical Office Building 1 and Medical Office Building 2.  East Conference Center is in the lower level of Medical Office Building 2.  

12 Months Post Surgery Support Group

There is also a support group for those who are 12 months post surgery.  This group meets on the 1st Tuesday of the indicated months below from 5:30 - 7:00 pm.  You do not need to register to attend.  Denise Strathdee, our Dietician will be facilitating the group, and the group will be a "working" group with small group participation, activities, etc.

2011 Meetings

January 4 - East Interconnect Lounge

March 8 - MOB II East Conference Center

May 3 - East Interconnect Lounge

July 5 - East Interconnect Lounge

September 6 - MOB II East Conference Center

November 1 - East Interconnect Lounge

The Importance of Support

The changes in your diet and lifestyle after surgery will last a lifetime. And you'll have a greater chance of long-term success if you surround yourself with people who understand and support your goals.

Things you can do:

• Help your friends and family members understand why you've chosen a surgical solution. Many people are under the impression that weight loss surgery is an experimental treatment rather than one with more than 40 years of history. Direct them to this web site or others in our Additional Resources section. It's important that they understand that morbid obesity is a disease and that diets don't work for you.
• People who are morbidly obese often report that their spouses, or others close to them, seem to discourage weight loss. These people see your weight as part of your identity. Understand that this is a fear of change. Discuss your reasons for having surgery. They need to know that your health is at stake and you will be counting on them to help you during and after surgery.
• Surround yourself with people who share your situation. Ask questions and receive answers in a supportive environment. Form a network to share recipes and exercise tips. It's important for you to know that you are not alone. There are knowledgeable, friendly people available to support and help you.