How has Lyme Disease affected your life?
Lyme Disease has affected my life because it affects the people around me. Although I, myself, do not have Lyme, I am still fearful of its impact. My childhood best friend has the disease, this is how I truly became aware of its weight and opened my eyes to its controversial and very real side. I may not fully grasp what it’s like to have Lyme, but I am receptive enough to see its impact. I soon realized other friends, mentors and deceased family members had it. It affects those that endure it physically for sure, but I can say confidentially it affects those around it as well because I can feel it. Lyme Disease has affected me because my empathy is not strong enough to heal those I love battling it. Lyme Disease has put a damper on my happiness and caused a lot of helpless pain, but has opened my eyes and heart to devote myself and my abilities for awareness and a cure.
What inspires you?
The impact I could create for others inspires me. People inspire me. The chance to change even one person’s life inspires me. Freedom of expression in all forms inspires me. Love inspires me. Laughter inspires me and baked goods generally spark some inspiration as well!
“Laughter. An essential ingredient for survival. And we laughed a lot.” -Patti Smith, Just Kids
Thank you for being a supportive Lyme advocate! I pray you never acquire Lyme, and keep your heart open for your friend and others (like me) who have hunkered down for the long fight.