my name is Cheryl and I was obese since early childhood in the 60's. Had my first Stapling done in 1977 when I also had my gallbladder removed due to many stones. I was about 278 at the age of 21. At that time the surgery was very new and the staple line ran horizontally across the top of the stomach. We ate an ice cube of broth as a meal for the first month and attended a support group each week with the small group of us in the chicago suburbs. I lost about 100 lbs and felt amazing with my 5'6" frame. Over about 10 yrs though the weight slowly came back and I started having stomach spasms. I went to a new Dr in Houston who explained that the staple lines now were done vertically so food would not sit on and disrupt the staples. At the age of 30 and at 320 lbs I went in to have the staple line revised. When I woke from anesthesia the Surgeon told me that "it was like trying to suture a kleenex" since the stomach tissue had been so damaged. I developed peritonitis and was kept in the hospital for almost 6 months with many complications and eventually 3 more surgeries to try to repair the damage. I weighed 125 lbs at my release. I have been through severe esophagitis and within a few years, 8 mm of Barret's Esophagus. I learned to eat carefully, small portions and supplement with ensure. I've had scopes every year since for biopsies and several dilatations to reopen where scar tissue due to severe gerd, had closed up my throat. I've learned to recognize that familiar "taste" and pain when I have ulcers due to H-pylori and chug pepto bimol for the curative value of the bismoth. I've lived through so many "new" patented acid medications and still woke up every night with a stomach and throat full of bile and acid. My teeth have lost enamel from so much vomiting over the years. For about 20 yrs I slept when I could in a recliner. Now at age 65 I have lost 4" of height due to degenerative disc disease in my spine and my esophagus is essentially "folding" over itself causing yet another issue. Would I do it again? YES. My self-esteem stayed the same but OTHER"S estimation of me changed drastically. I got the promotions that were eluding my 300 lb person and learned so much about living that I otherwise never would have. We now have come so far with this surgery and the medications are finally giving some actual relief! My first few scopes were done in the Dr.'s office a bit of spray on the back of the throat and the command to "Swallow and Breathe". Now my combined EGD and Colonoscopy with a bit of propofol is the best sleep I get all year! I am happy to share that I AM the story of all that can go wrong, and I thank God that I was in Hermann Hospital with many experts available. I am happy to share also that the biggest change is phycological and secondary is the physical.