Woman Overcomes Eating Disorder After Life-Changing Surgery

A 26-year-old woman from Dover has undergone life-altering surgery after suffering from a debilitating condition that forced her to stand while eating and caused her to vomit up to 60 times a day. Elise Banyard, a care worker, was diagnosed with type one achalasia, a rare disorder that narrows the oesophagus and severely impairs the ability to swallow food and liquids.

After four years of struggling with her condition, which left her weighing just over six stone, Banyard underwent a procedure known as peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) in August 2025. This minimally invasive surgery aimed to alleviate the difficulties she faced while eating and drinking, allowing her to enjoy her favourite foods once again.

Banyard’s journey began in January 2020 when she first experienced symptoms, including difficulty swallowing and a tight sensation in her chest. Despite her persistent issues, local doctors delayed her referral to specialists in London until November 2024. By that time, her health had significantly deteriorated, with daily vomiting becoming a distressing reality.

“On one occasion, I was sick about 63 times in a day,” Banyard recounted, highlighting the severity of her condition. “I couldn’t even eat soup and was severely dehydrated.” Foods such as bread and pasta became impossible to consume, as they would often get stuck in her throat, leading to painful regurgitation.

Following her surgery, which required six weeks of tube feeding before and after the procedure, Banyard has gained two and a half stone. While her ability to eat has improved significantly, she developed another condition known as Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMA), a complication caused by her rapid weight loss. This condition hindered her ability to absorb essential nutrients, further complicating her recovery.

Banyard expressed relief and joy at being able to eat foods she had long craved, such as pizza and pasta. “The first time I had a sip of water and felt it go into my stomach, I started crying because I hadn’t experienced that in so long,” she said.

Despite her progress, Banyard now faces delayed pain after meals, particularly when consuming heavy or carbohydrate-rich foods. She is currently working with specialists in London to manage this ongoing issue. “Even though I can eat now, when I do, I suffer for the next three days in pain,” she explained.

Her new routine involves aiming for 3,000 calories a day, ensuring she never waits more than 30 minutes between snacks to avoid feeling starved. The challenges she continues to encounter have not diminished her determination to live life to the fullest.

Banyard is also pursuing personal growth by learning to drive and studying business administration to enhance her career prospects. “I’m really doing things to make my life worth it,” she stated, reflecting on her journey. “When I thought I was going to die, I realised I needed to stop worrying and start taking life by the horns.”

Elise Banyard’s story highlights the resilience of individuals facing rare health challenges and the critical role of timely medical intervention. Her experience serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to one’s body and seeking appropriate care, even in the face of adversity.