How has Lyme Disease affected your life?
Lyme has affected absolutely every part of my life. I had to give up my dream of living in London to return home to focus on treatment, and go on medical leave from my first “real” full-time job. I was no longer able to do the things that I loved the most, such as traveling, hiking, paddle boarding, doing fun things with friends whenever I wanted, and scuba diving with sharks (my favorite hobby). Instead, my life revolved around treatment and my intense protocol’s daily schedule. My entire day and meals revolved around my health. I lost friends when I was less available to them, I received criticism for the treatments that I was doing, and I felt like no one understood me. I slowly became more and more isolated over time, and had a select few friends that really stuck by my side and were flexible with me. I felt like a burden on my family, for spending all of their money on my expensive treatments that many times were not visibly making a difference to my health. I felt lost and hopeless and desperately wanted my life back. However, on a more positive note, my journey with Lyme has also forced me to look inward and grow. I spent much, much more time alone. I got to know myself better and my priorities completely changed. I feel like I grew into the best version of myself, despite the terrible circumstances. My friends told me they admired my strength and positivity despite all I was going through, and this inspired me to start my blog, which I am now very passionate about. I want to share my story in hopes of raising awareness, helping others feel less alone, and inspiring others. I hope reading my story and the various treatments I’ve tried and what I’ve learned along the way will be helpful to others, as Lyme is so difficult to navigate alone.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by fellow Lyme warriors, what they go through, and what they’re up against. Many of them have such an amazing attitude, even when they’re going through hell, which I find incredibly inspiring. There is such an amazing Lyme community out there. I am inspired by my body’s resilience despite all it has been up against. I try to keep my eyes on the light at the end of the tunnel and envision what my life will be like once I am out of this mess and in remission, which I WILL reach, which inspires me to get through each day. I will truly have a new appreciation for life and a new mindset, I believe I will flourish due to all I’ve learned through this journey and life will unfold for me beautifully.
To follow more of this Lyme warrior’s journey, click here.