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Story 72

© Illustration by Life in Lyme Light.

How has Lyme Disease affected your life? What inspires you?

In June 2011 I was finishing my Master’s degree, getting ready to sell our house, training for a Tough Mudder. One day, out of the blue, I woke up with neck pain worse than I have ever felt before. Three days later, I woke up & could not feel my legs. I could not walk. Letters looked like symbols so I could not read or write. That was the beginning of nine months of seeking a diagnosis starting with major universities. There were 3 people in my partner’s office who had spouses with Lyme & they encouraged us  to contact a Lyme Literate Medical Doctor (LLMD).

Fortunately the best Lyme doctor in the world was only 30 minutes away in Washington DC. At my first appointment, I still could not walk, read, write & was barely able to speak. The LLMD diagnosed me with Lyme & multiple co-infections. I was one of the sickest patients he had ever seen. My LLMD told me I would not go back to who I was before I got sick, but he could help me get a better quality of life. In the 7 years since my diagnosis, I have done oral & IV treatments. My body has been through a lot, but it was ultimately worth it. I live with constant pain, plus Lyme has also caused severe brain damage. But I am enjoying a better quality of life. I can drive, go to the gym, read a book, cook, etc. This is a lifelong battle and I will continue to fight with all that I have.

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