Our support group met again on Monday 28th October 2024 at The George Centre in Gregory Hills. It was another informative and engaging evening, with a strong turnout and lots of shared conversation.
We were pleased to welcome Dr Rachel Kirby, Bariatric Surgeon, as our guest speaker. Dr Kirby delivered a clear and insightful presentation titled "Weight Loss Medications – The Results So Far". The topic was timely and relevant for many attendees who are either preparing for or have already undergone gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgery.
What We Learned About Weight Loss Medications
Dr Kirby discussed the growing role of weight loss medications as part of long-term obesity management. Key topics included:
- An overview of Wegovy and Mounjaro, two of the newer medications now available in Australia
- How these medications work to reduce appetite and improve metabolic function
- A comparison with earlier options like Ozempic
- Common side effects and what to expect
- How effective they are at achieving and maintaining weight loss, both with and without surgery
- A realistic look at the cost of treatment
Many attendees shared their personal experiences using Mounjaro, Wegovy, or Ozempic before or after their surgery. These stories helped others understand what to expect and how these medications can support weight loss when used alongside lifestyle changes and surgical treatment.
We also had time for a group Q&A session, where Dr Kirby answered a range of thoughtful questions about combining medication with gastric sleeve or gastric bypass, long-term use, and managing side effects.
Community and Connection
As always, we enjoyed tea, coffee, and fresh fruit, with samples kindly provided by BN Healthy. The evening ended on a fun note with our lucky door prize.
It was another great session filled with learning, support, and connection. Whether you are preparing for surgery, managing your health after weight loss, or exploring options like Wegovy or Mounjaro, our support group is a welcoming space to learn and connect.
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