Can't get rid of this knot in my stomach!
I will tell you that a positive attitude will make your recovery a lot better. Yes you will have some pain after the surgery but totally easy to deal with. I barely needed pain killers. Yes the day after the surgery is the worst and everyday after gets easier and better. If you stick to your pre-op diet your recovery should go smoothly. Its true you will have to re-learn everything your stomach does. Yes you will have difficulty drinking at first and it may be uncomfortable for a little while. Yes you will have difficulty getting all your liquids in and your protein will be a huge challenge too. But you like all of use will get to where you need to be by the 3rd or 4th week post op you will be a pro. Yes you will have 1 million questions, most of which will be answered here and some by your doctor and/or nutritionist. In the end you will be fine.
Kidding aside, I am sure you will do great. It is a big deal to go through surgery, your fears and anxiety are normal. I am really nervous too! Yes, there are some risks and they can happen to any of us, but chances are you will breeze right through and that the risks of this surgery are ultimately less than the risks of NOT doing the surgery. Do something nice for yourself to help you relax. Soon we will both be on the other side and wondering why we were so worried!