How long can one hope to live with GERD?

I have GERD (reflux disease) for about a year now. I take medications and strictly follow all restrictions, and have never smoked or drunk in my entire life. Yet this can only be controlled and not cured altogether. Have you any idea if there's any real cure to it apart from conventional meds, which only alleviate the symptoms? Also, how far do you think can one live with this? Have you ever known anyone who survived, say, 30 years with it? I'm 21 now, and life's already so miserable I don't feel like living with this beyond 50 anyway. I'll be grateful for all help!!