Pre- and post-surgical weight loss support groups

Making the decision to undergo weight loss surgery is an education process best aided by medical professionals such as surgeons and physicians, dietitians, and counselors. The greatest chance for long term success is reinforced by a well-informed decision and the championship of others who support and encourage the goals being set.

At the Minnesota Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIMIS), we encourage pre- and post-surgical patients to come together and support one another. The need for patients to communicate with each other, share experiences, and provide emotional support is facilitated in a group setting. Discussions are not only therapeutic, but are often lively and filled with helpful information. We provide a comfortable atmosphere where individuals can meet and talk with others who are dealing with similar issues.

MIMIS Weight Loss Surgery Support Group

At MIMIS, we invite pre and post-surgical patients to come together to talk, share experiences and provide emotional support to one another. Discussions are not only therapeutic and educational, but lively and fun as well. Supportive family members and friends are also encouraged to attend.

Support group offers a variety of speakers and topics designed to provide high quality, educational programs related to weight loss surgery. No registration required; mark your calendar and plan to attend!

January-December 2008

January 15, 2008:	“Ask the Surgeon” - with MIMIS Surgeon, Dr. Howard McCollister
February 19, 2008:	“Importance of Vitamins and Minerals. Explanation of Deficiencies That Can Occur” - with MIMIS Surgeon, Dr. Howard McCollister
March 18, 2008:	“Round Table Discussion” - with Northern Psychology Associate, Dr. Jean Kurtz, LP
April 15, 2008:	“Plastic Surgery After Weight Loss Surgery- Topic Includes Insurance Information and Costs” - with Midsota Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Thomas Satterberg
May 20, 2008:	“Weight Loss Surgery Patient Speaks Out” - with Mary Gottsch
June 17, 2008:	“The importance of Exercise after Surgery” - with CRMC Physical Therapist, Andrea Sinness
July 15, 2008:	“Ask the Surgeon” - with MIMS Surgeon, Dr. Timothy LeMieur
August 19, 2008:	“Round Table Discussion” - with Psychotherapeutic Resources Psychologist, Dr. James Collins, LP
September 16, 2008:	“Fall Festival” – with MIMIS Bariatric Coordinator, Sharlene Johnson
October 21, 2008:	“Recipe Exchange and How to Read Labels” - with MIMIS Nurse Coordinator, Erin Kennedy, RN
November 18, 2008	“Exercise Ideas” -with CRMC Physical Therapist, Nancy Heise
December 2008	No Support Group - Happy Holidays!

For more information, contact:
Erin Kennedy or Shar Johnson
Cuyuna Regional Medical Center
218.546.4343

E-mail Addresses: ekennedy@cuyunamed.org or sjohnson@cuyunamed.org

Speaker/topic subject to change without notice due to availability of speaker.

Meal cards for post surgery patients are available at all support group meetings.

In case of inclement weather, a cancellation decision will be made by 5:00 P.M.
Call 218.546.7000 to find out if the meeting has been cancelled.