COMMUNITY News:
A support group that started to discuss weight loss with GLP-1 drugs in 2025 will continue in 2026.
“We’ve been getting a lot of positive feedback from local doctors, nurse practitioners, and other medical professionals who keep telling us how needed something like this is in our community,” said Kate Cleveland. “Yes, there are plenty of online support groups for people using GLP-1 medications, but sitting in a room together is a different experience entirely.”
The group is about being in a space where people can laugh, compare notes, and help reduce the stigma that still lingers around these medications.
Cleveland describes the group as warm and along with Dr. McAtee has built a great core group and welcomes fresh faces. The feedback from members has allowed for many voices and shared experiences. The contributions have evolved meetings to include a short educational component. The mini-lessons are topics relevant to people using GLP-1 medications with information on fueling well and getting all those nutrients now that participants are eating fewer calories. They share navigating side effects, maintaining muscle, understanding hunger cues, and more.
“Dr McAtee chimes in with relevant medical information and once the lesson wraps up, the best part happens: the discussion,” Cleveland said. “People open up, they ask thoughtful questions, and they share what’s working, what’s confusing, and what’s downright frustrating.”
Sharing isn’t required, but it has allowed the group to become a genuinely safe and supportive space where nothing is off-limits. They have an enjoyable time, sometimes laughing and always leaving feeling heard. The educators believe that there’s nothing like helping people and witnessing those moments when someone has clarity on something that’s been bothering them for weeks.
Dr. McAtee has extensive medical experience in GLP-1 care and Cleveland has a background in nutrition coaching and sustainable habit change. They elected to co-lead this group because people deserve guidance that addresses their bodies, their behaviors, and their real lives.
Additional information about the leaders is available at www.KissYourFood.Com/GLP1.
Members interested in the group are welcome to come anytime and participation can be one meeting or many. Light snacks are provided, but people are welcome to bring lunch since they meet during the lunch hour. The group has varied ages and types of GLP-1 medications.
The meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month at the Unitarian Church. While the group is not affiliated with the church, they enjoy the beautiful community space. Meetings start at 11 a.m. and typically last an hour, attendees are welcome to come late or leave early if necessary. The cost is $50/session and scholarships are available by request to eliminate barriers.
Note: The group is not a medical appointment and not meant to replace medical care or one-on-one coaching. No pre-registration is required, and payment can be made at the meeting. New topics rotate each month, and any questions can be directed to Cleveland at Kate@KissYourFood.com.