Bariatric Support Network
The most successful bariatric surgery patients have a strong support network. For those of you who have a loved one suffering from morbid obesity and interested in the surgery, your encouragement is essential to helping the patient reach his or her goals. In fact, we’ve found, the stronger the bariatric support network, the greater the success.
Bariatric surgery is often the last resort. Patients who select bariatric surgery have attempted repetitive diet and exercise programs, but have been unable to reduce their weight alone. If you are considering approaching a friend or family member about bariatric surgery, consider this advice.
- Research the surgery thoroughly. Understand the risks and the benefits. The potential patient will ask you questions. The better you are prepared to answer the questions, the more confident you will be and the more supportive you will be throughout the process
- Offer to attend one of Geisinger’s bariatric seminars with the potential patient. This will show your support and give both of you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the procedure
- You can also be supportive of your friend or loved one by adopting a similar diet and/or exercise routine leading up to the surgery. Even taking 15 minutes a day to go on a walk with your friend will establish a camaraderie that will show your support and help him or her lose the necessary weight leading up to the surgery
- Keep in mind; bariatric surgery is a lifestyle change. Oftentimes, eating is a large part of the lives of the morbidly obese. Food has roles other than nourishment. You’ve heard the term comfort food. Overweight people eat for various reasons such as comfort and boredom. You can help by encouraging the bariatric patient to participate in some type of activity that will help him or her pass the time. Volunteer to share this activity with him or her
Your support and encouragement are crucial in helping your loved one reach long-term success. Many individuals fear they will not have the encouragement or will power to follow through with the surgery and follow-up commitments. It is important the patient knows you are there and will help him or her through this commitment to a healthy lifestyle!
Sign-up to receive e-updates about seminars and upcoming bariatric events.
Support Group Schedule
Support groups provide encouragement, information, and a forum for discussion of concerns or issues for patients who are scheduled for bariatric surgery. Meetings are scheduled every month. No registration is necessary.
DanvilleFirst Mondays3pm: Bush Basement, Conference Room #3 Third Mondays4pm: Foss Home, Geisinger Campus |
Wilkes-BarreFirst Wednesdays3pm: Geisinger Wyoming Valley |
State CollegeSecond Wednesdays3pm: Scenery Park Clinic |
For directions or additional information, call (570) 271-6439.
For more information about Geisinger’s nationally recognized program, please e-mail us today or call 1-800-275-6401 and ask for bariatric surgery.
