Dr I can feel your pain and understand. I have gone thru many surgeries and came out smiling or pretending to. As I type this, I am ready to go to Allegheny General in Pittsburgh for the 3rd go around with an Abdominal Anneuersm in 2 days. I have never asked or even thought Why Me. Esophagus has been repaired using the Nissen Fundiplication which is one that never lets up with the pain. 2 elbow surgeries and 4 shoulder repairs, both rotator cuffs and 2 times on the right bicept tendon. Kidney stones 11 or 12 times. Many scopes and biopsies of my Esophagus since 1996. I won't include the OC surgeries and biopsies. I like the post you put in here and it sure might help others with this dreaded disease we have. Not much of a tongue and no teeth. Losing lower jaw in the next few weeks too. But , this sure beats the alternative. Good luck and I have you in my prayers.

Since posting this. UPMC, Pittsburgh, Oct 2011 until Jan. I averaged about 2 to 3 surgeries a week there. w Can't have jaw made as bone is deteroriating steaily that is left in jaw. Mersa is to blame. Feeding tube . Had trach for 4mos. Got it out April.
--- Passed away 5/14/14, will be greatly missed by everyone here