Introduction: In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, co-host Richard Johannesen is joined by guest co-host Cassidy Colbert to interview Dr. Torrie Thompson, the founder of Meraki Wellness Center. Dr. Thompson calls in from Austin, Texas, to discuss her personal and professional journey with Lyme disease and address the misconception that Lyme disease doesn’t exist in Texas. Richard also mentions the upcoming ILADS conference in Texas and its role in raising awareness about Lyme disease in the state.

Dr. Torrie Thompson’s Background: Dr. Torrie Thompson reflects on her active childhood in California, where she was passionate about playing junior tennis and equestrian activities. Initially aspiring to become a professional tennis player or veterinarian, her path shifted after a series of undiagnosed health issues, which were later revealed to be caused by Lyme disease.

Her early health challenges included severe symptoms like difficulty lifting her arms, headaches, and unexplained weight gain. These symptoms, combined with visits to multiple specialists who couldn’t provide clear diagnoses, led to significant emotional distress. One doctor even suggested exploratory brain surgery. Through her perseverance and the support of her mother, who was her strongest advocate, Dr. Thompson eventually discovered through her own research that Lyme disease could be the underlying cause of her mysterious symptoms.

The Lyme Disease Diagnosis Journey: After encountering medical professionals who dismissed her symptoms, Dr. Thompson took matters into her own hands and began exploring possibilities, guided by “Dr. Google.” Eventually, a Lyme specialist confirmed her diagnosis through testing, despite resistance from other doctors. While receiving the diagnosis brought her some relief, it also posed new challenges. The physical and emotional toll of Lyme disease deeply impacted her, but it also ignited her desire to understand and treat the illness in a holistic manner.

Treatment Journey and Shift to a Holistic Approach: Dr. Thompson recounts her diverse treatment experiences, ranging from natural and holistic methods, like herbs and dietary changes, to a unique treatment involving magnets with a Lyme specialist in Idaho that significantly improved her health. A pivotal moment came during her travels in Thailand, where a conversation with a neurosurgeon broadened her perspective on healing, convincing her to take a more holistic approach. She explains that this shift away from traditional medicine led her to embrace a comprehensive view of healing—one that considers the whole person, including mental and emotional health. This new direction became central to her treatment philosophy.

Establishing Meraki Wellness Center: Dr. Thompson eventually founded Meraki Wellness Center, named after the Greek word "meraki," which means to put your soul, love, and creativity into your work. At Meraki, Dr. Thompson adopts a multifaceted approach to treating Lyme disease and other chronic health conditions, focusing on detoxification, gut health, and addressing root causes of illness. Her approach emphasizes the importance of diet, lifestyle modifications, and mental health in the healing process.

At the core of her practice is the belief that Lyme disease patients need to adopt a high-maintenance, proactive approach to their health. Dr. Thompson helps her patients create personalized rehabilitation and maintenance plans to ensure long-term well-being, even after the initial treatment phase.

Challenges in Treating Lyme Disease: Dr. Thompson acknowledges the financial burden of Lyme disease testing and treatment. She emphasizes the importance of making testing accessible, especially since many patients have experienced medical fatigue and misdiagnosis. She also shares her approach to patient care, which involves disarming patients by being transparent about her own journey and experiences. This builds trust and helps patients feel understood.

Dr. Thompson highlights the significance of addressing the mental and emotional aspects of Lyme disease, working with therapists and mental health professionals to support her patients. She believes in treating the whole person, not just the physical symptoms, to achieve lasting recovery.

Personalized Treatment and Gut Microbiome: Addressing the complexity of Lyme disease, Dr. Thompson talks about the role of genetic diversity and the importance of tailoring treatment to each individual’s unique biology. While genetics can influence how someone responds to Lyme, Dr. Thompson emphasizes that the diversity of the gut microbiome and the combination of co-infections a person has are even more critical factors.

She shares a personal anecdote involving her and her sister, who both went through the same treatment protocol but had very different outcomes. This illustrates the importance of bioindividuality and the need for a personalized approach to treatment.

Transformation and Finding Purpose: Dr. Thompson’s own experience with Lyme disease led her to discover her true purpose: helping others regain their health. She expresses deep gratitude for her journey, as it has enabled her to make a meaningful impact in the lives of her patients. The connections she has made within the Lyme disease community have been a source of inspiration and fulfillment.

Practical Advice for Patients: Dr. Thompson offers several pieces of practical advice for Lyme disease patients. She emphasizes the importance of a clean, nutrient-dense diet, avoiding processed foods, and focusing on reducing inflammation. Sleep is another critical factor in the healing process. Additionally, she cautions patients against getting bogged down by negativity in online Lyme communities, encouraging them to maintain a positive mindset as they navigate their recovery journey.

Closing Remarks: Richard Johannesen wraps up the episode by thanking Dr. Thompson for sharing her personal story and expertise. He also extends his gratitude to Cassidy Colbert for co-hosting. Dr. Thompson’s journey serves as a beacon of hope for those suffering from Lyme disease, demonstrating that healing is possible through perseverance, holistic care, and bioindividual approaches.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that sheds light on the complexities of Lyme disease and the integrative healing approach Dr. Thompson champions at Meraki Wellness Center.

In this episode, Rich Johannesen and guest co-host Aimee Packer welcome Andrea Barrick, a certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and Nutrition Response Tester. Andrea takes us through her lifelong battle with Lyme disease, detailing her symptoms, treatment journey, and the holistic approaches that have transformed her health. She shares how she went from experiencing chronic fatigue, panic attacks, and severe joint pain starting at age 8 to now reclaiming 90% of her health through a diverse array of natural treatments.

Episode Highlights:

1. Andrea’s Early Health Struggles:

• Andrea started showing Lyme symptoms around age 8, including panic attacks, muscle cramps, vision problems, and joint pain.
• Despite her severe symptoms, she actively engaged in equestrian activities, musical theater, and martial arts, until a traumatic brain injury in 7th grade further exacerbated her condition.

2. Lack of Medical Support:

• Growing up, Andrea’s symptoms were often dismissed as “growing pains” or genetic predispositions like arthritis.
• When she sought medical help as an adult, she faced disbelief from doctors until she was finally diagnosed through muscle response testing.

3. The Lyme Diagnosis and Treatment:

• Andrea was diagnosed with Lyme disease and Bartonella at age 23 through a combination of clinical evaluation and muscle response testing.
• Her treatment has included herbal protocols, Ozone IV, a carnivore diet, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and supporting detoxification pathways.

4. The Role of Faith and Identity:

• Andrea discusses how her faith and relationship with God were integral to her healing journey.
• She emphasizes the importance of not letting Lyme disease define her identity and maintaining hope for recovery.

5. Key Takeaways for Listeners:

• Early Symptoms Matter: Don’t ignore unexplained symptoms, especially in children.
• Holistic Approaches: Address root causes through diet, environment, and detoxification before resorting to medications.
• Tick Prevention Education: Understand proper tick protection, regular tick checks, and early intervention if bitten.

6. Living a New Normal:

• Andrea’s life now includes strict boundaries, a nutrient-dense animal-based diet, and lifestyle modifications to maintain her health.
• She’s about 90% back to her old self and hopes to use her experiences to help others in her community facing similar challenges.

Final Thoughts and Advice:

Andrea shares that the most valuable lesson from her journey has been perseverance and finding a silver lining in the struggle. Her story is a testament to resilience and the power of a holistic, faith-centered approach to healing.

Tune in now to hear Andrea’s powerful story of turning Lyme disease challenges into resilience and hope!

Guest:

Dr. Eboni Cornish – Secretary of the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS), Brain Specialist at Amen Clinics, and a practitioner specializing in Lyme disease, co-infections, mold toxicity, heavy metal detoxification, nervous system health, autoimmune disorders, the limbic system, and other complex chronic health conditions. Dr. Cornish is known for her expertise in neurological Lyme disease, SPECT scan imaging, and developing practical, integrative treatment protocols for addressing root causes and supporting overall wellness.

Special Guest Co-host:

Jenny Buttaccio joined Tick Boot Camp co-founder Matt Sabatello as the special guest co-host for this Tick Boot Camp Podcast episode.

Episode Summary:

In this compelling episode, we explore the complexities of neurological Lyme disease and chronic illness with integrative medicine expert, Dr. Eboni Cornish. From her unconventional journey into functional medicine to groundbreaking insights on SPECT brain imaging and the effects of environmental toxins, Dr. Cornish shares her extensive knowledge on treating some of the most challenging health conditions facing patients today.

Join us as Dr. Cornish explains the importance of identifying root causes, supporting the body’s natural detoxification pathways, and addressing co-infections and autoimmune complications. You’ll also learn about innovative treatments, including the use of methylene blue, brain detox strategies, and techniques to calm the nervous system for individuals dealing with limbic system impairment and emotional health challenges.

Key Takeaways:

• Journey into Functional Medicine: Dr. Cornish shares her unexpected entry into chronic Lyme and integrative medicine after a job opportunity from Craigslist led her to a life-changing experience.
• Neurological Lyme Disease: Learn how SPECT scan imaging is used to detect patterns of decreased blood flow and brain activity, which helps in understanding neurological manifestations of Lyme and co-infections.
• Environmental Toxins and Detox Protocols: The role of toxins like mold and heavy metals in chronic illness, and a practical approach to detoxification through diet, gut support, and supplements.
• Molecular Mimicry: Explanation of molecular mimicry, where the Lyme bacteria can integrate into the body's cells and tissues, causing the immune system to attack the body’s own cells and potentially leading to autoimmune conditions.
• Morgellons Disease: Understanding the dermatological and neurological impacts of this often misunderstood condition and its connection to Lyme disease.
• Advanced Treatments for Bartonella and Borrelia: The use of methylene blue as a treatment option, along with important cautions and safety considerations.
• Link Between Lyme Disease and Neurodegenerative Conditions: Exploring how Lyme can contribute to conditions like Alzheimer's and dementia, and the role of brain imaging in early intervention.
• Personalized, Holistic Treatment Strategies: Insights on the cell danger response, methylation, and the importance of an individualized treatment plan for complex chronic illnesses.
• Dietary Adjustments: Incorporate detoxifying foods like cruciferous vegetables, lemon water, and beets to support liver function and toxin elimination.
• Calming the Nervous System: Implement strategies to calm the nervous system, such as using GABA, L-theanine, neurofeedback, and techniques to challenge negative thought patterns.

Memorable Quotes:

• "Lyme disease is the great imitator. It’s not just a physical illness—it impacts your brain, emotions, and entire body." — Dr. Eboni Cornish
• "Healing requires looking at the whole person. You have to address toxins, infections, and emotional health." — Dr. Eboni Cornish
• "We need to view the brain as part of the entire system—not in isolation." — Dr. Eboni Cornish

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we interview Dr. Leona Gilbert, the CEO of Tezted, a medical device company revolutionizing diagnostics for tick-borne diseases. Dr. Gilbert shares her journey as a Canadian-born scientist, her groundbreaking work, and the limitations of current diagnostic methods for Lyme disease.

Key Takeaways:

• Dr. Gilbert's Background: Dr. Gilbert moved from Canada to Finland and later to the US to pursue research. Her personal experiences with tick-borne diseases fueled her passion for improving diagnostics.
• Challenges with Traditional Testing: Current Lyme disease tests often look for a single strain of Borrelia, missing co-infections like Bartonella and Babesia. The "one germ, one disease" approach is outdated.
• Comprehensive Testing for Tick-Borne Illnesses: Dr. Gilbert’s research emphasizes the importance of screening for multiple pathogens simultaneously. Her work led to the development of TickPlex Plus, a test that screens for various Borrelia strains, Bartonella, Babesia, and other microbes.
• Immune System Function: Rather than just testing for pathogens, it’s essential to assess the patient’s immune system function for a fuller understanding of their health status.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Understanding Lyme Disease: A deep dive into Lyme disease's complex pathogenesis and why it's often misdiagnosed.
2. Polymicrobial Nature of Tick-Borne Diseases: Co-infections are common, and a broader testing panel is needed to accurately diagnose patients.
3. Limitations of Western Medicine: Western medicine’s traditional approaches often fail to account for the complexities of Lyme disease and co-infections.
4. Comprehensive Testing: Dr. Gilbert discusses the importance of her work in providing more accurate diagnostics through Tezted's TickPlex Plus test, which evaluates a wide range of tick-borne illnesses.
5. The Role of the Immune System: Highlighting the need for immune function assessment alongside pathogen testing to truly understand and treat tick-borne diseases.

Where to Find the TickPlex Plus Test:

• The TickPlex Plus test can be ordered through ArminLabs.
• It will soon be available directly in the US, with updates expected on Tezted.com within the next four weeks.

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we are excited to welcome Rachel Sarah Thurston, a Lyme disease survivor and creative powerhouse behind State of Sparkle. Rachel shares her inspiring and multifaceted healing journey after enduring years of misdiagnoses, offering hope and insight for others in the chronic Lyme community.

Joining the conversation is guest co-host Ashley Marba, a beloved Lyme advocate and community contributor. Together, they dive deep into Rachel’s path of resilience, creativity, and healing.

Rachel recounts her first encounter with ticks at age 14 during a trip to South Africa. After years of undiagnosed symptoms, she was finally diagnosed with Lyme disease in 2014. Her road to healing has been extensive and varied, incorporating both traditional and alternative treatments that helped her rebuild her life.

Rachel’s treatment journey includes a wide array of therapies aimed at healing her body and mind. Here are the key treatments she has undergone:

• Thyroid Support: Targeting thyroid function to address the effects of Lyme on her endocrine system.
• Live Bee Venom Therapy: A 1.5-year-long therapy using bee venom to boost immune function and combat Lyme bacteria.
• Ozone Treatments: Administered to address parasites and strengthen the immune system.
• Neurofeedback and Tapping: Brain retraining techniques to reduce the neurological effects of Lyme.
• Dynamic Neural Retraining System (DNRS): A program designed to rewire the brain and support healing from chronic illness.
• Physical Movement: Incorporating yoga, walking, grounding, and earthing practices to connect with her body and nature.
• Cannabis: Used to manage insomnia.
• Supplements: To support methylation pathways, vital in the body’s detoxification process.
• Parasite Treatments: Focusing on eliminating parasites that may exacerbate Lyme symptoms.
• SIBO Treatment: Addressing Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth, a common complication in Lyme patients.
• Gallbladder Detoxing: Supporting liver and gallbladder function to enhance detoxification.
• Paleo Diet: Following a diet that reduces inflammation and supports healing.
• Binders: To help remove toxins from the body.
• Homeopathy: Using highly diluted substances to trigger the body’s natural healing responses.
• Hyperbaric Chamber: Oxygen therapy to boost healing and fight infection.
• Hydrocortisone: Used to manage adrenal insufficiency and support her endocrine health.
• Prolotherapy: A regenerative treatment for joint and tissue repair.
• Cryotherapy: Cold therapy to reduce inflammation and promote recovery.
• Acupuncture: Traditional Chinese medicine technique for pain relief and overall well-being.
• UV Light Treatments: A therapy designed to reduce infection and improve immune function.
• Rife Therapy: A frequency-based therapy targeting pathogens.
• Colonics and Enemas: Detoxifying treatments aimed at improving gut health.
• Past Life Regression Therapy: A spiritual healing method used to explore and release deep-rooted trauma.
• Reiki: An energy healing practice that promotes relaxation and balance.

Key Discussion Points:

• Rachel’s Healing Journey: From early exposure to ticks to her eventual Lyme diagnosis and extensive treatment journey, Rachel shares her struggles and triumphs.
• Holistic and Alternative Treatments: Rachel dives into the diverse therapies she has used to heal, ranging from bee venom and ozone treatments to homeopathy and past life regression therapy.
• Mind-Body Healing: Beyond physical treatments, Rachel emphasizes the importance of healing trauma, setting boundaries, and addressing the energetic aspects of recovery.
• Creative Healing: Rachel discusses how her work as a writer, photographer, and singer has helped her process her experiences and inspire others in the chronic illness community.
• Intergenerational Healing: Rachel shares plans for her upcoming book about traveling with her mother and their shared journey of healing from trauma.

This episode is a powerful reminder that healing from chronic Lyme disease is a multifaceted journey that requires addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Rachel’s story provides hope, insight, and practical advice for those navigating their own paths to recovery.

🎙 About This Episode Join Rich Johannesen and special guest co-host Nicoleta Forbes as they interviews Dr. Jennifer Platt, an influential advocate in the fight against tick-borne diseases and the founder of Tick-Borne Conditions United and Tick Warriors. Dr. Platt shares her personal journey with ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease, and multiple chronic conditions, offering insight into how these diseases impact lives and the broader healthcare landscape in the southern United States. Her mission is not only to raise awareness but also to educate people on prevention and eco-friendly protection options.

In this episode, Dr. Platt opens up about her diagnosis, treatments, and the many challenges she faced on her path to healing. She also shares essential information about the differences in tick-borne diseases prevalent in the southern U.S., where the Lone Star tick has become a major public health issue, spreading diseases such as Alpha-Gal syndrome, ehrlichiosis, and rickettsiosis. Dr. Platt’s background in environmental health and public policy makes her a powerful advocate for tick disease awareness, prevention, and community resilience.

🦠 Key Topics:

• Dr. Jennifer Platt's personal battle with ehrlichiosis and chronic illness
• Her diagnosis journey and the challenges of dealing with multiple conditions, including Lyme, Babesia, Alpha-Gal syndrome, and autoimmune diseases
• The importance of addressing diseases caused by the Lone Star tick in the southern United States
• Why prevention is the best weapon against tick-borne diseases and her eco-friendly approach with Tick Warriors
• The role of public health leadership in fighting the spread of tick-borne illnesses
• The importance of being persistent, creative, and patient in chronic illness management

Guest Bio: Dr. Jennifer Platt holds a doctorate in public health leadership from UNC Chapel Hill and has dedicated her career to addressing public health issues, with a focus on tick-borne diseases. After being diagnosed with ehrlichiosis in 2011, she founded Tick-Borne Conditions United, a nonprofit focused on spreading awareness about tick-borne illnesses and the impact they have on communities. In addition, she created Tick Warriors, an eco-friendly solution for tick prevention. Dr. Platt is a leading advocate in the fight for safer, healthier environments for those affected by tick-borne diseases.

🔑 Quotes:

• “Every person has a unique healing journey. Giving yourself grace, being patient, creative, and persistent will help you get through – there is light at the end of the tunnel.”
• “We’re not just dealing with Lyme disease in the south; we have to address the growing prevalence of Alpha-Gal syndrome, ehrlichiosis, and spotted fevers.”

🔍 Resources:

• Visit Tick-Borne Conditions United
• Learn about Tick Warriors
• Follow Dr. Jennifer Platt on Facebook

💡 Call to Action: If you or someone you know is battling a tick-borne illness, this episode is a must-listen! Learn more about how you can protect your family and community, and gain valuable insight from Dr. Platt’s advocacy work. Be sure to subscribe to the Tick Boot Camp Podcast for more inspiring stories and expert interviews.

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Matt Sabatello and Christina Kovacs speak with Theresa Haselmayer, a registered nurse and holistic practitioner with over 30 years of experience in traditional medicine. Theresa shares her journey of battling Lyme disease and mold illness for 15 years and how her struggles led her to embrace holistic healing. Now, she runs Foundations Wellness in Cincinnati, Ohio, helping others heal from chronic illnesses through natural and integrative methods. Theresa’s story is one of resilience, recovery, and a deep commitment to helping others on their healing journeys.

Key Topics Covered:

• Theresa's Background and Credentials:
  • 30 years of experience as a registered nurse in traditional medicine.
  • Transitioned to holistic practices after personal struggles with Lyme disease and mold illness.
  • Trained with Hilary Thing, a master herbalist and Chinese medicine practitioner, in Kingston, New York.
  • Gained expertise in detoxification protocols and holistic healing.
• Establishing Her Practice in Cincinnati:
  • Began her practice in her living room, informally coaching and helping people.
  • Trained in ozone therapy under Dr. Frank Shallenberger, president of the American Association of Ozone Therapy.
  • Expanded her practice to an office in Norwood, Cincinnati, growing her team by hiring registered nurses and a nurse practitioner.
  • Integrated a physician collaborator to enhance the range of services offered.
• Challenges and Transition to Holistic Medicine:
  • Faced difficulties in the traditional medical system, which often lacked understanding of chronic illnesses like Lyme disease.
  • Emphasized the importance of understanding the underlying causes of Lyme and other chronic illnesses.
  • Highlighted the differences in approach between traditional and holistic medicine.
• Personal Journey with Lyme Disease:
  • Shared her initial symptoms and misdiagnoses, including Epstein Barr and chronic fatigue.
  • Discussed the significant impact of the illness on her family and daily life.
  • Described her experiences with various treatments, including antibiotics, herbal therapies, and the role of hope and perseverance in her recovery journey.
• Discovering the Role of Mold in Her Illness:
  • Discovered mold in her home and its detrimental impact on her health.
  • Explained the mechanisms by which mold exacerbates Lyme disease and other illnesses.
  • Discussed the use of specific mold binders and ozone therapy in her recovery.
• Environmental Medicine and Toxic Metals:
  • Developed an interest in environmental medicine and the role of toxic metals in chronic illness.
  • Shared her journey with chelation therapy and the impact of toxic metals on health.
  • Emphasized the importance of addressing environmental toxins for a full recovery.
• The Role of Liposomal Essential Oils in Treatment:
  • Introduced liposomal essential oils (PDF) and their effectiveness in treating Lyme disease and co-infections.
  • Cited research by Dr. Ying Zhang at Johns Hopkins and positive feedback from clients
  • Discussed the benefits of using liposomal essential oils, including targeting Lyme persisters and leveraging the intelligence of plants.
• Building Her Practice and Helping Others:
  • Detailed the growth of her practice and the addition of more practitioners to meet the needs of her clients.
  • Stressed the importance of continuous education and staying updated on the latest research and developments.
  • Expressed her motivation to help others and bring hope to those struggling with chronic illnesses.
  • Explained her approach to individualized treatment plans and the role of trial and error in finding effective solutions.
• Addressing Co-Infections and Other Health Issues:
  • Discussed common co-infections associated with Lyme disease.
  • Emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to treatment, addressing both Lyme disease and co-infections.
  • Highlighted the importance of addressing environmental toxins and their impact on overall health.
• Future Directions and Continuous Learning:
  • Affirmed Theresa’s ongoing commitment to learning and staying updated on the evolving field of Lyme disease treatment.
  • Described her involvement in various medical groups, such as ILADS (International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society) and ICI (International Society of Environmentally Acquired Illness).
  • Encouraged listeners to maintain hope and perseverance in their own recovery journeys.

Support the Podcast:

• If you found this episode of our Tick Boot Camp Podcast helpful, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts and share it with friends and family who might benefit from Theresa’s story.

In this insightful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, host Rich Johannesen and special guest co-host Liza Blas sit down with Shawn Mastria, a former cybersecurity expert turned autism researcher. Shawn shares his personal journey from working in government and Fortune 500 companies to becoming deeply involved in regressive autism research due to his and his daughter’s health challenges. This episode explores the intersections of Lyme disease, mold exposure, and regressive autism, providing valuable insights for those navigating similar health landscapes.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to Shawn Mastria: Shawn introduces himself and discusses his extensive background in cybersecurity, including work with the government and Fortune 100 and 500 companies. He also shares the pivotal moment that shifted his focus from technology to autism research.
• Life Changes and New Directions: Shawn describes the health issues he and his daughter experienced that led him to dive deep into regressive autism research, leaving behind his cybersecurity career.
• Guest Introduction - Liza: Liza, a former podcast host of "Very Happy Stories," joins the conversation, bringing her own experience and perspective on community support and her new venture with Dr. Bill Rawls and the Vital Plan team.
• The Role of Community in Healing: Rich and Matt discuss the importance of community in the healing journey and introduce their new YouTube channel, emphasizing the need for careful selection of supportive communities.
• Shawn's Early Life and Lyme Exposure: Shawn shares his childhood experiences growing up in Maryland, where tick bites were a common occurrence. He recalls his initial ignorance about Lyme disease and the symptoms he developed after a bite that went unnoticed.
• From Cybersecurity to Autism Research: Detailing his early career, Shawn talks about his achievements in cybersecurity before a significant health event redirected his focus towards autism research and advocacy.
• The Onset of Symptoms and Initial Misdiagnoses: Shawn discusses the early symptoms he and his daughter experienced, including fatigue and hand issues, and the challenges of getting an accurate diagnosis from conventional doctors.
• The Connection Between Lyme Disease and Autism: Shawn provides insights into how Lyme disease and mold exposure may contribute to regressive autism, differentiating between autism and regressive autism.
• Understanding Mold and Its Impact on Health: Shawn delves into the effects of mold toxins on the human body, particularly in relation to Lyme disease and regressive autism, and shares his personal experience with mold remediation in his home.
• The Journey to Healing: Discussing various treatments and interventions, Shawn shares what has worked for his family and emphasizes the importance of a tailored approach to health recovery.
• Advice for Parents and Caregivers: Shawn offers advice for parents, especially fathers, on how to be more engaged and supportive in the health journeys of their children with autism and Lyme disease.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your community. Your support helps us reach more people with valuable information and stories about Lyme disease and tick-borne illnesses.

In this enlightening episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, hosts Matt Sabatello and special guest co-host Justin Lindorf sit down with Dr. Andrew Petersen, a Lyme-literate medical doctor with over 24 years of experience in treating chronic Lyme disease and other complex chronic illnesses. Dr. Petersen shares his unique journey into medicine, driven by a desire to "stick up for the little guy," and how he transitioned from family medicine to becoming a leading figure in Lyme disease treatment.

Key Takeaways:

• Creating a Healing Environment: Dr. Petersen emphasizes that the key to overcoming chronic Lyme disease is creating an environment where the body can make more new cells than are being broken down, which promotes overall health and healing.
• Promoting Cell Growth and Repair:
  • Ingredients for New Cell Formation: Ensuring the body has the necessary fats, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, oxygen, and water.
  • Proper Signaling Molecules: Maintaining the presence of hormones, peptides, cytokines, interleukins, enzymes, growth factors, and neurotransmitters.
  • Optimizing Cell Production: Addressing hormone and thyroid imbalances to enhance the body’s ability to make new cells.
• Reducing Cell Death:
  • Managing Microbes: Implementing strategies to reduce the microbial load, including Lyme-specific treatments and immune support.
  • Detoxification: Actively managing and reducing environmental and internal toxins that contribute to cellular breakdown.
  • Addressing Stress and Trauma: Implementing therapies to reduce the impact of psychological and physical trauma, which can trigger immune dysfunction.
  • Mitigating Electromagnetic Frequencies: Reducing exposure to EMFs, which can disrupt cellular function and contribute to chronic illness.
• Fecal Implants and Microbiome Health: Dr. Petersen discusses the use of ThaenaBiotic, a processed and sterilized form of fecal microbiota transplant (FMT), to help restore a healthy microbiome. This approach aims to reintroduce beneficial bacteria to the gut, which can be crucial for patients with Lyme disease and other chronic conditions.
• Dr. Petersen’s Journey: Learn about Dr. Petersen's unconventional path to becoming a DO, inspired by personal experiences and a dynamic biology professor.
• Understanding DO vs. MD: Dr. Petersen explains the differences between DOs (Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine) and MDs, and why he chose the osteopathic path.
• Challenges in Lyme Diagnosis: Dr. Petersen discusses the difficulties he faced in diagnosing Lyme disease during his early career, especially while working in tick-endemic areas without proper awareness or training.
• Integrative Approach to Healing: Dr. Petersen shares his holistic approach to treating Lyme disease, which includes addressing the key factors that contribute to chronic illness alongside Lyme-specific treatments.
• Justin Lindorf’s Perspective: As a Lyme patient himself, Justin offers valuable insights into Dr. Petersen’s compassionate and open-minded approach to patient care.

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In this compelling episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we sit down with Luke Abroms, a firefighter from Birmingham, Alabama, to discuss his battle with Lyme disease. Luke shares his story, starting with his life before Lyme, the sudden onset of symptoms at the age of 32, and the difficult journey toward a correct diagnosis. Despite numerous visits to doctors, Luke's symptoms were often dismissed as anxiety or psychiatric issues, until he finally found a naturopathic MD who identified Lyme disease and multiple co-infections.

Throughout the episode, Luke opens up about the challenges of living with Lyme in a region where the disease is not widely recognized and the emotional and physical toll it took on him and his family. He also details the treatment regimen that ultimately led to his recovery, including pulsed antibiotics and herbal therapies, and how he was able to return to a normal life.

Luke's story is one of perseverance, hope, and the importance of being your own advocate in the face of a complex and often misunderstood illness. Whether you're a Lyme warrior yourself or looking to understand more about the disease, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

Key Takeaways:

• Luke’s career and life before Lyme disease, including his work in the fire service.
• The sudden onset of debilitating symptoms and the initial misdiagnosis by medical professionals.
• The long and difficult journey to finding a doctor who understood Lyme disease and provided a proper diagnosis.
• The treatment plan that led to Luke’s recovery, including pulsed antibiotics and herbal supplements.
• Luke’s reflection on his recovery and advice for others dealing with Lyme disease.
• Special guest co-host: Ryan Courneya

Subscribe & Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more people and share more inspiring stories like Luke's.