My Story by MJR

On 4/17/2015, I went in for a routine colonoscopy, the Md unknowingly ruptured my spleen. I was rushed to the ER where my spleen was removed. Long story short it took about a 6 months for the incision to heal. I could only drink liquids and went from 116 lbs to 92 lbs and remained there for over a yr. I didn’t know what was wrong with me because I became full on a small amount of food and was incredibly bloated. My chest was tight and food wouldn’t go down.

I found a new GI and we proceeded to do numerous tests beginning with Sibo, then I was given an endoscopy with Botox which alleviated the tightness in my chest. Then I had a cat scan done, gastric emptying test then manometry. At first they thought I had dyspepsia then achalashia then finally I was diagnosed Gastroparesis in Aug of 2017. My GI really wasn’t versed on the condition and said I could eat broccoli and cheese!!! But he did recommend Domperidone which really helped with the nausea and appetite.

I finally went to a nutritionist who was very knowledgeable and helpful. I’m now 109lbs. It’s been an eye opening experience! I was so angry that this happened to me! I tried to sue to no avail. I’m just now starting the process of accepting that sometimes bad things happen to good people. ( I’m in therapy) I used to cry several times a day but I’m down to once every other day or two.

I’ve basically had to be my own advocate because there is very little knowledge or awareness of this condition. We need cures! I personally believe it will take stem cell to heal the Vagus nerve and I’m hoping more funding will go into research. We need awareness. I don’t think people are aware that abdominal surgeries can lead to Gastroparesis or are aware of how devastating it is. Most people just think its like IBS. We all have a story and this is mine. It changed my entire life in an instant.