I resisted getting a feeding tube for as long as I could. I knew I’d have to use one eventually, but I didn’t feel ready for a long time. I was afraid it would make me a lesser person or less attractive, and I worried that it would completely change my lifestyle.

Now that I have one, I must admit: my lifestyle has changed. But I’ve gotten used to nourishing myself this way, and I’ve adjusted to eating seven times a day, instead...