A few weeks ago I introduced you to Brook. One of the reasons Brook said that her surgery was successful was because of the massive support she received from individuals at Clarian Bariatrics both before and after surgery. Below she explains a little more about what happened after surgery.

After losing 120 pounds through weight loss surgery, Brook Wessel-Burke was able to reclaim her life. But even before she underwent the procedure, she knew that surgery was only one component of the program.

A solid support system is crucial to the continued success of bariatric surgery. A circle of friends, family and bariatric professionals who support, encourage and counsel the patient are invaluable in achieving the dramatic and permanent weight loss and improvement in health. Support groups are ideal forums for pre and postoperative patients to both glimpse into the future and learn from the experience of more mature patients.

“I had gone to support group several times before surgery, so I had heard people talk about what to expect,” Brook said. “Six months after surgery things started getting tough, and I was becoming emotional and turning to food temptations.”

Through support group, Brook was able to connect with other individuals and together they were able to produce solutions to these challenging situations. These solutions augmented and improved her health and self-esteem.

“It was helpful for me to have friendships with people that were in the same situation,” she said. “We could admit to one another that we didn’t have a perfect week and then talk about the ramifications. It was what I needed to get back on track.”

Because support is so vital to weight loss success, Clarian Bariatrics, a designated Center of Excellence, offers support groups for all bariatric surgery patients, and those contemplating surgery.

With a variety of group formats, interested individuals are able to meet regularly for counseling and support. They can also take advantage of occasional lectures and presentations by experts in various areas of obesity and weight loss, including physicians and makeover professionals. Several activities are also regularly held, such as, fashion shows and group excursions.

Two years after surgery, Brook still turns to the support groups at Clarian Bariatrics to stay on track.

“The patients and staff at the clinic are like my extended family now,” she said.