I began giving back to the Weight Loss Surgery Community about a year after I had my Lap Band surgery in 2004.  Then it was just speaking at my doc’s informational seminars after having lost 100+ pounds.  My audience grew as I lost over 200 pounds and the time went on.  I found I was so energized by being able to do this, to actual lose 250+ pounds and create a whole new life for myself that I wanted to share it with anyone who would listen.

Sometime in 2010 I found out about the Weight Loss Surgery Foundation of America and I have been a member, and for several years now a member of the Board of Directors.  This is the ONLY organization that funds grants for Weight Loss Surgeries for those who are financially unable to do it themselves, have little or no insurance coverage, and have the medical need.  Wow, that’s a big sentence for a BIG MISSION, one that is certainly worthy of my time.

I gladly volunteer my time as a board member and get to share the joy of not only our grant recipients, but all of those who attend our annual Meet & Greet to live and learn the Weight Loss Surgery Life as well as to help give back by helping to save a life through their attendance at our Meet & Greets.

This year’s event is in San Antonio, at the Marriott Riverwalk hotel.  If you have never been there you are in for a treat, it is a great location.  We have lots of fun as well as education planned for our attendees.  Friday will be about peer support.  If you’ve never been before, there is a Newbies meeting to introduce you to others who are with us for the first time, play some games, win some prizes, make friends, and then off you go to the rest of the event.

There will be inspirational talks, panel discussions by other patients, and on Friday night join us for our Fiesta -- San Antonio style.  Saturday there are Bariatric Surgeons, Plastic Surgeons, and other professionals speaking individually, and on panels.  Our Vendor area will be filled with the latest and greatest in bariatric friendly products.  Oh, by the way, you’ll be taking home lots of samples so bring an empty suitcase.  Join us Saturday night for Sparkle and Shine when we all get to strut our stuff, no matter where we are on our journeys, and celebrate LIFE. 

Sunday morning we’ll have our bike ride and our 5k then finish the day with our Bari Friendly version of Chopped.  It’s loads of laughs as we will see some strange and often delicious tasting recipes created.

Oh, I did not forget to mention that Carnie Wilson, our National Ambassador of Hope will be in attendance, and we’ll have a little get together to raise additional funds at a Tapas With Carnie Event.

All of this and MORE.  Support yourself on your journey.  Meet new people, make new friends, hug old friends, and Most of All - Help Us Save Lives.

Here’s the link to register- I Hope to get to give you a personal hug in San Antonio in June http://www.wlsfa.org/2018-2/