In this inspiring episode of our Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we welcome Amy Kurtz, holistic health coach, patient advocate, and author of Kicking Sick: Your Go-to Guide for Thriving with Chronic Health Conditions. Amy shares her incredible journey from years of undiagnosed illness to finding hope, healing, and purpose. Her story offers practical advice, emotional support, and empowerment for anyone navigating chronic health challenges.

Episode Highlights:

💡 Amy's Early Struggles

• Growing up in Pennsylvania, a Lyme disease hot spot, and the lack of awareness around tick-borne illnesses.
• Experiencing mysterious symptoms and chronic pain starting in her teens.

💡 The Diagnostic Journey

• Frustration and exhaustion from visiting countless doctors without clear answers.
• The importance of self-advocacy and trusting your intuition when something feels off.
• Finally receiving a late-stage Lyme disease diagnosis and the mixed emotions that followed.

💡 Healing Through Creativity and Connection

• How performing arts became a source of joy and emotional release during her toughest times.
• The transformative process of writing Kicking Sick and sharing her story to help others.
• Treatments included A-Bart by Byron White for Bartonella, Cryptolepis and Artemisinin for Babesia, and more.

💡 Building a Support Team

• Surrounding yourself with the right medical experts, friends, and advocates who truly understand your needs.
• Insights from Amy’s "A-Team" of experts, including Dr. Mark Hyman, Kris Carr, and others.

💡 Practical Tips for Thriving

• The spiritual and emotional aspects of healing, and the power of self-care.
• How to create a holistic approach to chronic illness, including mindset shifts, lifestyle changes, and finding purpose.

Who Should Listen? This episode is a must-listen for anyone living with chronic health conditions like Lyme disease, autoimmune disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome, or unresolved pain. It’s also perfect for caregivers, advocates, and anyone passionate about holistic healing and self-empowerment.

🎧 Tune in now to discover how to thrive, not just survive, with chronic illness!

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear Amy’s incredible story.

In this compelling episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, host Matt Sabatello and guest co-host Dan Wagner speak with Presley Taylor, an 18-year-old Lyme disease warrior and ambassador for the Global Lyme Alliance. Presley shares her courageous journey of battling Lyme disease and multiple co-infections from childhood, detailing her struggles with insomnia, anxiety, depression, and debilitating physical symptoms.

This episode dives deep into the challenges of navigating the complexities of Lyme disease, particularly for young patients. Presley reflects on the years of misdiagnosis and environmental factors, such as mold exposure, that worsened her condition. Most importantly, she shares how innovative treatments, holistic approaches, and mindset work have brought her closer to recovery.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Early Symptoms: Presley experienced insomnia, gastrointestinal issues, and frequent nightmares starting around age 10.
• Environmental Triggers: Mold exposure and bed bug infestations contributed to a decline in her health.
• Mental Health and Lyme: Presley shares how Lyme affected her mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.

🩺 Presley's Treatments and Recovery Journey: Presley's recovery journey is a testament to perseverance, multidisciplinary care, and innovative treatments:

1. Envita Medical Center: Presley worked with Envita, a renowned Lyme disease treatment center, where she received customized therapies to target her tick-borne illnesses and co-infections.
2. Sanoviv Medical Institute (Mexico): At the Sanoviv holistic medical center, Presley underwent integrative treatments focusing on detoxification, immune support, and healing at a cellular level.
3. Hyperthermia Therapy: Presley collaborated with Michelle McKeon, a hyperthermia consultant, to utilize hyperthermia therapy for targeting persistent infections.
4. Parasite Treatment: Presley worked with Dr. Jaban Moore, a leading Lyme-literate practitioner, to address parasitic infections through targeted protocols.
5. Brain Retraining with Primal Trust: She incorporated brain retraining exercises by Dr. Cathleen King to regulate her nervous system, improve her mental resilience, and support emotional healing.
6. Lifestyle Changes: Key elements of her recovery included prioritizing sleep, nervous system regulation, detoxification, and dietary adjustments to promote overall wellness.

Presley's story is an invaluable resource for anyone navigating Lyme disease, particularly for young patients and families seeking hope and guidance. Her courage, resilience, and advocacy efforts inspire others to pursue healing despite the challenges of chronic illness.

🎧 Listen Now: Tune in to this episode to hear Presley’s incredible journey and learn about the treatments and strategies that helped her regain her health. Stream this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

✨ Key Quote from Presley: "Recovery is possible, but it takes persistence, the right tools, and a lot of self-compassion. Don't give up—there's always hope."

🎙️ Don’t Miss Out: Subscribe, rate, and review the Tick Boot Camp Podcast to hear more stories of Lyme warriors and experts in the field.

In this emotionally charged and deeply inspiring episode of the Tick Boot Camp podcast, host Richard Johannesen and special guest co-host Alexandra Brook-Clark team up to bring you the compelling journey of actress Ashley Seal. From pursuing her dreams in Hollywood to battling the life-altering challenges of Lyme disease, Ashley’s story is one of courage, persistence, and hope.

Ashley discusses her experience with Lyme disease, from the early onset of symptoms and the devastating impact on her career and relationships to her determination to heal and find purpose again. This episode is packed with practical advice, heartfelt moments, and reminders that recovery is possible—even in the face of immense adversity.

Whether you are battling Lyme disease, supporting a loved one, or simply looking for inspiration, Ashley’s story will resonate deeply with you.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Ashley's Early Life and Career in Hollywood:
  • Ashley reflects on her adventurous childhood and her dream of becoming an actress.
  • Her rise in Hollywood, including roles in TV shows like Ice Cold Killers and The Coroner: I Speak for the Dead.
  • Performing at iconic venues like 54 Below in New York City and how her passion for storytelling fueled her career ambitions.
• The Onset of Symptoms and Misdiagnosis:
  • The mysterious health challenges that began derailing her life in her early 30s.
  • Struggles to receive a proper diagnosis in a complex healthcare system.
  • The emotional and physical toll of misdiagnosis and feeling dismissed by medical professionals.
• The Lyme Diagnosis and Treatment Journey:
  • Ashley’s eventual diagnosis with Lyme disease and the bittersweet relief of finally understanding the cause of her symptoms.
  • Navigating treatments, including antibiotics, herbal therapies, and holistic approaches.
  • The importance of finding Lyme-literate practitioners and advocating for herself.
• Mental Health and Emotional Resilience:
  • How Lyme disease affected Ashley’s mental health, career, and relationships.
  • The loneliness of battling a chronic illness and the stigma surrounding invisible illnesses.
  • Tools and practices that helped Ashley regain her emotional strength, including self-care, yoga, and therapy.
• Building a Support System:
  • The role of community and connection in Ashley’s recovery journey.
  • How supportive friends, family, and online Lyme communities played a vital role in her healing.
  • Advice for listeners on creating their own network of support.
• Hope and Inspiration for Lyme Warriors:
  • Ashley’s empowering message to those battling Lyme or other chronic illnesses: “Don’t give up. Healing is possible.”
  • The importance of celebrating small victories and finding purpose during the recovery process.

Memorable Quotes from the Episode:

• “Lyme disease took everything from me, but it also taught me the strength I never knew I had.” – Ashley Seal
• “The hardest part is not just the physical pain but feeling like no one believes you. That’s why community is so important.” – Ashley Seal
• “We have to be our own advocates. The right practitioners are out there—you just have to keep searching.” – Ashley Seal

Actionable Advice for Listeners:

• Advocate for Yourself: If you feel unheard by a doctor, don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion or find a Lyme-literate physician.
• Build a Support Network: Connect with others who understand what you’re going through. Community is key to resilience.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Take small steps to nurture your body and mind, even on the toughest days.
• Stay Hopeful: Recovery may be slow, but progress is possible with persistence and belief.

About the Guest: Ashley Seal is an accomplished actress who has appeared in TV shows and films like Ice Cold Killers and The Coroner: I Speak for the Dead. She has performed at prestigious venues, including 54 Below in New York City. Despite her health struggles, Ashley remains committed to using her voice to help others, including survivors of sex trafficking. Her resilience and passion for advocacy make her a powerful inspiration for anyone facing Lyme disease or chronic illness.

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Melanie Stein, a licensed Naturopathic Physician and Lyme specialist from Portland, Oregon. Dr. Stein is the owner of Restorative Health Clinic, where she focuses on treating Lyme disease and its complex co-infections. Her personal battle with Lyme disease transformed her life and career, inspiring her to specialize in the care of patients with tick-borne illnesses.

Early Life and Education

• Upbringing: Born in San Diego, California, Dr. Stein moved to Portland, Oregon, where she enjoyed an active, outdoor-focused childhood.
• Challenges: Struggled with anxiety, ADD, and gastrointestinal issues that were often dismissed as psychological.
• Educational Path: Initially interested in veterinary medicine, she was guided to naturopathic medicine and earned her Doctorate in Natural Medicine and a Master’s in Acupuncture from the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM).

Lyme Disease Diagnosis and Struggles

• Early Symptoms: Experienced ongoing health challenges, including anxiety and gastrointestinal issues, but they were misdiagnosed.
• Neurological Episode: During her third year of naturopathic school, Dr. Stein faced a sudden, severe neurological crisis, leaving her paralyzed and reliant on a wheelchair.
• Misdiagnosis: Despite her Lyme diagnosis, hospital staff dismissed her condition as "conversion disorder," further complicating her care.
• Correct Diagnosis: With the help of her naturopathic doctor, Dr. Jennifer Means, she received a diagnosis of CDC-positive Lyme, IgM Bartonella, and tularemia.

Treatment and Recovery

• Therapies: Dr. Stein's treatment included:
  • IV antibiotics like Rocephin and Azithromycin.
  • IV phosphatidylcholine for cell membrane stabilization therapy, which played a pivotal role in her recovery.
  • IV ozone therapy and herbal treatments.
  • Ivermectin to calm tremors and regulate immune responses.
• Journey to Remission: After five years of intensive treatment and additional care during a relapse, Dr. Stein recovered her health and has maintained remission.

Professional Transformation

• Becoming a Lyme Specialist: Inspired by her journey, Dr. Stein dedicated her career to treating patients with Lyme disease and advocating for better awareness and care.
• Philosophy: Emphasizes a holistic, multifaceted approach that addresses pathogens, cellular damage, and immune dysfunction.
• Mentorship and Expertise: Trained under Lyme-literate experts, attended ILADS conferences, and specialized in advanced therapies like Perineural Injection Therapy.

Advice and Prevention Tips

• For Patients: Celebrate small victories, persist through setbacks, and advocate for yourself. The healing journey is challenging, but progress is possible.
• For Prevention: Perform regular tick checks, use permethrin-treated clothing, and send ticks for testing. Awareness and preparedness are key to protecting your family.

Closing Thoughts: Dr. Melanie Stein's remarkable journey from patient to practitioner exemplifies resilience and the transformative power of holistic care. Through her expertise, empathy, and dedication, she continues to make a profound impact on the Lyme community.

In this powerful Tick Boot Camp Podcast episode, Lindsey Shaker shares her inspiring journey of overcoming Lyme disease and multiple co-infections. From battling years of misdiagnosis to navigating aggressive treatments, Lindsey’s story highlights resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of maintaining hope. She also emphasizes the role of movement, such as yoga and hiking, and the necessity of community and self-care in the healing process. Tune in for invaluable insights into managing chronic illness and learning how to advocate for yourself and others in the Lyme community.

1. Introduction to Lindsey Shaker • Background: Director of Marketing for Shaker Auto Group and Lyme disease advocate. • Diagnosed with Lyme disease and multiple co-infections at age 31 after years of misdiagnosis.

2. Lindsey’s Early Life and Onset of Symptoms • Born with Lyme and Bartonella through maternal transmission. • Early symptoms: Full-body paralysis during high school track practices, emotional instability, memory loss, and balance issues in college. • Misdiagnosed with depression, ADHD, and Lyme carditis before her eventual diagnosis.

3. The Turning Point • Mother’s diagnosis prompted Lindsey to seek further testing. • Diagnosed with Lyme disease, Bartonella, Babesiosis, Typhus, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichiosis, and Anaplasmosis via blood tests conducted by Dr. Bouboulis.

4. The Treatment Journey • Initial treatments: A combination of antibiotics, anti-parasitic medication (Mepron), and IVIG therapy. • Challenges: Managing severe Herxheimer reactions and navigating insurance for IVIG approval. • Milestones: Significant improvements in mobility and overall health over seven years of treatment.

5. The Role of Mindset and Self-Care • Tools for resilience: Yoga, probiotics, CBD oil, and communication with Lyme-literate professionals. • Addressing environmental factors, such as mold exposure, through diet, sleep, and movement.

6. Movement as Medicine • Physical activities: Hiking and yoga played crucial roles in her recovery journey. • Emotional benefits: Restored confidence and emotional well-being through consistent movement.

7. Life After Lyme • Nearly 99% recovered but emphasizes the importance of continued vigilance. • Reflects on lost time but remains grateful for the progress made and the strength gained.

8. Advice for Listeners • For Lyme patients: “Your outlook is everything. Fight for your recovery and never give up.” • For prevention: “Assign a tick-checking buddy and never skip tick checks after outdoor activities.”

9. Lindsey’s Call-to-Action • Follow Lindsey on Instagram: @LMshaker to learn more about her journey and advocacy work. • Explore Tick Boot Camp resources for tools and strategies to overcome Lyme disease and chronic illnesses.

Conclusion: Lindsey Shaker’s journey reminds us that recovery is possible with persistence, education, and support. Her story is a beacon of hope for others navigating the challenges of chronic Lyme and other tick-borne diseases

Keywords: Lyme disease, Tick Boot Camp, Lindsey Shaker, Resilience, Misdiagnosis, Co-infections, Herxheimer reactions, IVIG, Movement, Mindset, Immune system, Chronic illness, Recovery, Advocacy, Tick-borne illnesses, Treatment journey

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Liz Kinnart, a health professional, Lyme disease survivor, and founder of Bloom Holistic Health and Fitness. Liz shares her remarkable journey from growing up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula—where tick exposure was a part of life—to her eventual Lyme disease diagnosis and recovery. With over 15 years of experience in exercise physiology and chronic disease management, Liz offers invaluable insights into navigating tick-borne illnesses and maintaining health.

Key Discussion Points:

• Early Exposure to Ticks: Growing up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Liz was exposed to ticks from a young age but was unaware of the potential health risks. Her love for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking in her 20s further increased her tick exposure.
• Health Challenges and Diagnosis: Liz’s health journey began in 2020 with flu-like symptoms and joint pain, initially misdiagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis. After years of unexplained symptoms, she received a Lyme disease and Babesia diagnosis in 2023 through blood testing by a Lyme-literate medical doctor (LLMD).
• The Role of Stress and Immunity: Liz reflects on how past stressors, including a traumatic event in high school and a toxic relationship in college, may have weakened her immune system, making her more vulnerable to tick-borne illnesses.
• Healing Journey: Liz used a holistic approach to heal, including herbal therapies like cryptolepis, banderol, and samento, along with antibiotics, parasite cleansing, and lifestyle changes. She highlights the importance of balance in exercise, incorporating strength training and low-impact activities while listening to her body’s needs.
• Creating Bloom Holistic Health and Fitness: Inspired by her journey, Liz founded Bloom Holistic Health and Fitness to support others with chronic illnesses. Her personalized coaching focuses on improving health through fitness, nutrition, and education.

Advice for Listeners:

• For those battling Lyme disease: Healing is possible with patience, resilience, and a proactive mindset.
• For prevention: Build a strong immune system and be prepared with knowledge and tools to handle potential tick encounters.

Resources and Links:

• Liz’s Website: Bloom Holistic Health and Fitness
• Follow Liz on Social Media:
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • TikTok

Connect with Us: If you found this episode helpful, please share it with someone who might benefit from Liz’s inspiring journey. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join us for our next episode!

In this compelling episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Richard Johannesen and special guest co-host Claudia Arias welcome Audrey Lambidakis. Audrey, based in Santa Cruz, California, shares her journey from a promising career in rescue and safety to overcoming the challenges of a life-altering brain injury and Lyme disease. Claudia, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, joins to provide her insights and amplify the importance of mental health in chronic illness recovery.

Episode Highlights:

Audrey's Early Aspirations and Health Challenges

• Audrey’s background in safety work, including her time as a junior ski patrol member.
• How a knee injury and subsequent brain injury during her freshman year of college shifted her life trajectory.
• A decade-long journey of seeking treatment across the U.S., including participation in government studies and visits to top hospitals like Mayo Clinic and Stanford.

The Turning Point: Lyme Disease Diagnosis

• Misdiagnoses and dismissal by doctors who deemed her symptoms psychosomatic.
• The eventual discovery of Lyme disease as the root cause of her prolonged health struggles.
• Her experiences with Bee Venom Therapy (BVT) and the importance of Lyme-literate doctors.

Healing and Advocacy: Faith, Hope, and Action

• Audrey shares the emotional toll of navigating her health journey and the pivots that kept her moving forward.
• How faith and belief in the possibility of healing played a vital role in her recovery.
• The creation of the Healing Brain Waves Foundation to educate and raise awareness about brain injuries and their connection to Lyme disease.

Holistic Healing and Future Plans

• Audrey’s exploration of a holistic approach to recovery, incorporating mindfulness, therapy, and innovative treatments like psychedelics.
• Plans to become a nurse practitioner to bridge the gap between brain injuries and Lyme disease.
• Her advocacy work within the Mavericks surfing community to secure a hyperbaric chamber for big wave surfers.

The Broader Impact

• A discussion on the systemic lack of Lyme disease education among medical professionals.
• The critical role of patient self-advocacy in navigating complex health systems.
• Claudia and Richard emphasize the transformative power of proper diagnosis and the ripple effect of getting one person the right care.

Key Takeaways:

• Hope is essential: Even in the darkest moments, small positive changes can guide the way forward.
• Faith in healing—whether rooted in spirituality, science, or self-belief—can accelerate recovery.
• Lyme disease is often an unseen factor in brain injuries, underscoring the need for awareness and education.

Closing Thoughts: Richard Johannesen and Claudia Arias commend Audrey’s resilience and vulnerability, celebrating her progress and unwavering dedication to helping others. This episode is a testament to the power of community, advocacy, and belief in healing.

Subscribe & Share: If Audrey’s story inspired you, subscribe to the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode to spread awareness about Lyme disease and brain injuries.

Note to Listeners: Audrey’s story is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, no matter how daunting the journey may seem. Stay hopeful, stay informed, and join the movement to liberate others from the suffering caused by Lyme disease.

Special Guest Co-Host: Heather Glovack joins Rich from Tick Boot Camp to delve into Lyme disease treatment and the power of holistic healing with Dr. Alice Honican, the lead practitioner at Longevity Health Center in Roswell, GA.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Dr. Alice Honican shares her insights into treating chronic Lyme disease using bioenergetic medicine, a holistic approach to diagnosis and healing. She discusses her family’s pioneering contributions to natural medicine, her unique testing protocols, and the importance of mindset and emotional well-being in the healing process. Together with Heather Glovack, co-hosting alongside Rich, they explore actionable advice for listeners navigating Lyme recovery.

Key Topics Covered:

• Meet Dr. Alice Honican
  • Overview of Longevity Health Center and its foundation in macrobiotic medicine.
  • Dr. Honican’s background, influenced by her father, a Lyme-literate practitioner.
• What is Bioenergetic Medicine?
  • How electronic devices identify energetic imbalances for diagnosis and treatment.
  • The role of detoxification and support in Lyme recovery.
• Navigating Challenges in Natural Medicine
  • Addressing Lyme disease and holistic care in Georgia.
  • Balancing patient advocacy with evolving medical landscapes.
• Holistic Treatment Approach
  • Incorporating oral health, thermography, and layered testing protocols.
  • Therapies like acupuncture, neurofeedback, and tools for at-home maintenance.
• The Power of Mindset and Emotional Health
  • Addressing emotional/nervous system factors to complement physical healing.
  • Encouraging patience, belief in the body’s healing, and setting achievable goals.

Key Takeaways for Listeners:

• Bioenergetic Medicine: A cutting-edge approach using frequency measurements to address health imbalances.
• Holistic Health Focus: Detoxification, oral health, and comprehensive testing create a foundation for recovery.
• Mind-Body Connection: Positive mindset and emotional support are crucial for overcoming chronic conditions.
• Practical Advice: Start small, stay consistent, and trust your body's ability to heal over time.

Actionable Tips for Lyme Warriors:

• Begin with manageable lifestyle changes to build momentum.
• Incorporate therapies like acupuncture or neurofeedback for sustained wellness.
• Use at-home tools recommended by your practitioner for maintenance.

About Us:

Rich Johannesen: Co-host of Tick Boot Camp, bringing years of experience advocating for Lyme disease awareness and patient empowerment. Learn More About Rich

Heather Glovack: Lyme survivor and passionate advocate, co-hosting to share her perspective and inspire hope. Learn More About Heather

Dr. Alice Honican: Lyme-literate practitioner and owner of Longevity Health Center in Roswell, GA, with over 20 years of experience in natural medicine. She specializes in bioenergetic medicine, detoxification, and a holistic approach to chronic illness treatment.

Subscribe to Tick Boot Camp: Don’t miss an episode! Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, hosts Matt Sabatello and special guest co-host Michelle McKeon sit down with Dr. Napatia T. Gettings, a Double Board Certified Psychiatrist and Lyme Literate specialist, to explore the intersections of brain health, Lyme disease, and cutting-edge diagnostic tools like SPECT imaging.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Dr. Gettings’ Journey to Lyme Literacy

• Discover how Dr. Gettings transitioned from medical school to private practice and became a partner at Amen Clinics.
• Learn about her expertise in treating child, adolescent, and young adult brain health and the integration of multiple medical specialties in her practice.

Unveiling the Power of SPECT Imaging

• Understand what SPECT (Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography) imaging is and how it differs from traditional CT scans.
• Learn why SPECT imaging is vital for identifying brain activity abnormalities, including inflammation, and its challenges in obtaining insurance coverage.

Brain Inflammation and Tick-Borne Diseases

• Explore how SPECT scans can detect brain inflammation caused by toxins, pathogens, and autoimmune conditions.
• Dive into case studies, including patients misdiagnosed with psychiatric conditions later found to have infections like Babesia.

Treatment Approaches for Lyme and Inflammation

• Discover the role of multi-disciplinary care in addressing tick-borne diseases and brain health.
• Learn about treatment modalities such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and nutraceuticals.

The Role of Cannabis in Brain Health

• Get insights into the benefits and risks of CBD and THC in managing inflammation and mental health.
• Understand the importance of education and individualized treatment plans when considering cannabis use.

Navigating Mental Health and Trust

• Hear Michelle McKeon’s personal story about overcoming mental health challenges and finding a supportive psychiatrist.
• Explore the critical role of trust in the doctor-patient relationship when treating complex conditions.

Misdiagnosis and the Need for Better Diagnostics

• Learn why inadequate medical workups often lead to psychiatric misdiagnoses.
• Understand the importance of accessible, accurate diagnostics in mental health care.

Key Takeaways and Resources

• Discover the Amen Clinics’ resources, including examples of SPECT scans showing differences between healthy brains and those affected by Lyme disease.
• Hear Dr. Gettings’ call to normalize brain scans as essential diagnostic tools for neuropsychiatric symptoms.
• Find actionable advice on improving health literacy and accessing comprehensive care.

This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone navigating Lyme disease, mental health challenges, or looking to optimize brain health. Tune in to uncover the science behind SPECT imaging and its life-changing applications in psychiatric care.

Introduction: In this powerful episode, Tick Boot Camp Podcast Rich Johannesen and special guest co-host Dan Wagner welcome Lyme disease survivor and advocate Sophia Denison. Dan shares insights on his new Global Lyme Alliance-sponsored podcast, Lyme Plus, which he co-hosts with Kenzie Vath, where they spotlight essential information from doctors and researchers in the Lyme disease field. Rich then introduces Sophia, an inspiring young leader in the Lyme disease community, whose journey of resilience has fueled her advocacy efforts.

Sophia’s Advocacy and Community Engagement: Sophia Denison recounts her transformative journey from Lyme disease patient to a leading activist. Now fully recovered, she dedicates herself to raising awareness and empowering others. As an ambassador for the Global Lyme Alliance, she has organized community events, including a screening of The Quiet Epidemic documentary on her college campus. She discusses how storytelling opens up powerful dialogues and fosters empathy, helping others understand the struggles of Lyme disease sufferers.

Sophia’s Early Life and Initial Symptoms: Growing up in Barrington, Illinois, Sophia was an active child who participated in sports and triathlons. However, at age seven, she began experiencing unexplainable symptoms, including intense stomach pain, weight loss, and severe anxiety. Her symptoms were initially misdiagnosed as gastrointestinal issues and anxiety, which delayed her Lyme diagnosis for over a decade.

The Challenges of College and Escalating Symptoms: Upon starting college, Sophia's symptoms intensified. She faced body pain, fatigue, and unusual neurological episodes like uncontrollable laughing and crying. Balancing academic demands while sharing facilities with other students added to her stress and exacerbated her symptoms. Despite seeking help from specialists, her symptoms were often dismissed as stress-related.

Sophia’s Search for a Diagnosis and the Role of IGeneX Testing: Sophia recalls the emotional toll of visiting multiple specialists, only to be told her symptoms were "all in her head." Desperate for answers, she decided to undergo a Lyme test with IGeneX. With encouragement from her best friend and neighbor, Lulu, who shared her own Lyme story, Sophia pursued testing that finally confirmed her suspicions.

Discovering a Treatment Path in Germany: Sophia sought treatment at Klinik St. Georg in Bad Aibling, Germany. There, she underwent treatments including whole-body hyperthermia, blood ozone therapy, and detoxification therapies. The intensive treatment program helped Sophia begin her journey toward health, though it was a difficult path both emotionally and physically.

Building a Personalized Toolbox for Recovery: Recovery for Sophia meant building a personalized "toolbox" of health strategies. Today, she maintains her health through supplements, a balanced diet, regular movement, and stress management. She emphasizes listening to her body, and understanding its needs has allowed her to reconnect with herself and rebuild her life.

Lessons Learned and Empowering Advice for the Lyme Community: Sophia’s key advice to others is to trust that their symptoms are real. By tuning into her body's signals and understanding its resilience, she was able to shift her perspective on Lyme disease. Sophia encourages patients to see their bodies as allies and lean into their strength through the journey. Her recovery serves as a beacon of hope for Lyme patients, demonstrating that healing is possible.

Action Items and Future Goals: Sophia is committed to her work with the Global Lyme Alliance and other organizations to connect Lyme patients with Lyme-literate healthcare providers. By sharing her experiences, she hopes to continue empowering others and raising awareness of Lyme disease.

Conclusion: This episode offers a hopeful message for Lyme sufferers worldwide. Sophia Denison’s journey from illness to advocacy serves as a reminder that recovery is achievable, and her story encourages listeners to trust their instincts, seek proper care, and find a supportive community.