Spoke at an Introductory Seminar

[ghost_ryder]

Never thought I would be one to do this. I am not a public speaker by any means and get really nervous in public. During this whole process, I have tried to be as honest as I could with everyone during this journey. So when speaking, I tried to relate my journey to how I felt when I first started at the very same intro seminar. I wanted real info on how I would have to change and how my life would be affected. Honestly, I got a little choked up when talking about "my why." My twin grandsons and how things revolved around them. My wish was that I could have been more organized speaking to this group and will likely prep a little more next time. Yes, there will be a next time.

Now the good part. At the end, no matter how bad I thought I had done more than one person commented as I was walking away that I was really an inspiration to them. Several others looked at me as if I was some sort of rock star. That felt great but then at the and of the meeting a man approached me and asked if I could talk to him for a bit. Of course I could. He was there to support his friend who was interested in the surgery but my talk had actually inspired him to take a deeper look for himself. He was a larger guy but not near as big as I used to be. His health factors were significantly worse than mine were 15 months ago and would realize an amazing benefit improving his health if he goes through with this. That alone made me feel as though I had done my job by speaking to people starting out. It has reenergized me as I am going into the second half of the honeymoon period where I certainly will need a little push along the way. If I can make one suggestion to you, go speak at an introductory seminar if you are asked.

[Linda51]

You really are an inspiration, you know. Your honesty is greatly appreciated.

[Donald G]

That's fantastic and what great complements. My dietician wants me to be a future speaker at one of our monthly support group meetings I'm kicking the idea around but I'm rather a blunt person and don't know how that would go over.

[Bagawk!]

I would have never guessed you to be nervous about public speaking. You've always struck me as someone who was very confident in what you had to say and comfortable saying it,... so you hide it well. I'm glad you had this experience,.. not just for them, but also for yourself. You are a strong source of support here as well and I always appreciate your contributions to discussions!

[ghost_ryder]

Typing, I can say most anything and one on one is more my speed. Out loud in public, nope. Truly is not me. Thankfully, I made it through it without losing my lunch because I really did get a lot out of the meeting.

Donald, If you get the chance to speak to the group I suggest doing it. Today at the gym, I had the best workout I have had in years. I felt completely energized, more driven. I have the want to be the best I can be and I owe it to speaking last night.

[DesertGal]

Greg, you ARE a rock star! You inspired many at that meeting and they'll always remember you and your story.

[Christie13]

Good for you Greg! That is great! My surgeon's office is way down town and traffic is horrible. I would love to speak at a seminar but that drive is a nightmare.

[Newlife2017]

Nice job Greg! Sometimes I think it's hard to be honest when you've had surgery because with some people you never know how they are going to react. However, when you are speaking to a group such as you were complete honesty is important. They need to know that this journey is not "easy". It is hard both physically and mentally. I can imagine how inspiring you are in person because you definitely inspiring to me here in this forum. Keep up the good work and for encouraging all of us to tell our story.

[bigdogluver]

That's wonderful! They picked the right person to do that! You are so kind and patient, I'm sure everyone appreciated your testimony and insight. Good on you!

[Ann2]

Absolutely great job, Greg! I agree that offering our own "testimony" at these intro sessions for pre-op patients is a great way to support ourselves, as well as others who need the support.

I've been doing these short talks at my surgeon's day-long get-ready-for-surgery seminars for a year and a half now. It feels like a very significant thing to do in many ways.

I'd love to have seen / heard your presentation in person!