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.

Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, the Tick Boot Camp hosts speak with Kim Strother—celebrity fitness trainer, holistic health coach, yoga instructor, and model for brands like Ford, Nike, Reebok, Adidas, Columbia Sportswear, Footlocker, and more. As one of LA’s top trainers, Kim shares her transformative journey from undiagnosed Lyme disease to becoming an advocate for holistic health and chronic illness recovery. Her battle with Lyme began with mysterious symptoms from a young age, leading to a 22-year struggle before finally receiving her Lyme diagnosis. Today, she uses her expertise to inspire others with a multi-modal, bio-individual approach to wellness.

Key Takeaways:

1. Growing Up in Tick-Endemic New Jersey and Early Symptoms

• Kim’s childhood on a family Christmas tree farm in tick-endemic New Jersey involved frequent tick exposure but little awareness of tick-borne illness risks. She began experiencing fatigue, migraines, GI problems, and chronic infections as a child, but these symptoms were dismissed or misdiagnosed for over two decades, setting the stage for a lengthy, difficult journey before her eventual Lyme diagnosis.

2. Late Diagnosis and Complex Co-Infections

• By age 28, Kim’s health had deteriorated significantly, with debilitating, multi-system symptoms. After years of seeking answers, she was finally diagnosed with Lyme disease along with several co-infections and chronic conditions: Babesia, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Bartonella, Candida overgrowth, mold and heavy metal toxicity, parasites, and SIBO.

3. Holistic Healing Journey

• Kim’s recovery involved a multi-pronged approach that combined traditional and alternative treatments:
  • Natural Supplements: Homeopathic herbs and Monolaurin (a natural antifungal) helped combat infections.
  • Diet and Detox Therapies: A Paleo diet centered on greens and protein reduced inflammation, and therapies like glutathione IVs, infrared saunas, colonics, and ozone steam treatments supported detoxification.
  • Innovative Devices: Kim used the FreMedica Wave frequency device, which provided symptom relief through frequency-based therapy.
  • Electromagnetic Acupuncture Testing: This testing helped Kim track her health status and adjust her healing protocol.

4. Patience, Body Awareness, and Resilience

• Kim emphasizes the importance of tuning into your body, maintaining patience, and finding hope even during setbacks. She underscores that healing from chronic Lyme disease requires resilience and support from knowledgeable communities.

5. Professional Impact and Holistic Coaching

• Her journey through chronic illness has deeply influenced her approach as a trainer and coach. Kim now focuses on bio-individual health strategies, mindfulness, and sustainable practices, helping clients achieve wellness with a balanced and holistic perspective.

Additional Highlights:

• High-Profile Career: Kim’s career has included being a featured trainer on the Melissa Wood Health App and earning recognition as one of the most in-demand fitness models by racked.

Advice from Kim Strother:

• On Lyme Healing: Stay hopeful, be patient, and celebrate small wins. Healing is a long journey, but each step forward is valuable.

Connect with Kim Strother: To learn more about Kim’s fitness programs and holistic health approach, visit her website and follow her on Instagram.

In this transformative episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, host Matt Sabatello is joined by Janna Johnson—#1 best-selling author, keynote speaker, Functional Medicine Nutritional Therapist, and Lyme disease survivor. Janna’s powerful story of recovery from Lyme disease, breast implant illness (BII), and chronic illness showcases her commitment to functional health and the role of mindset, self-care, and lifestyle adjustments in healing. This episode offers listeners invaluable insights and actionable strategies for overcoming chronic illness with a holistic approach.

Guest Background: From Texas to Functional Medicine

Raised in Texas, Janna grew up with a sugar-heavy diet that led to chronic inflammation, gut health issues, and mental health struggles, including anxiety and depression, by her twenties. Her journey to healing began when she made dietary changes, emphasized gut health, and embraced the connection between chronic inflammation and neurological symptoms.

Healing Chronic Lyme Disease: Essential Oils, Diet, and Detox Protocols

Janna’s recovery from Lyme disease was rooted in holistic protocols, including essential oils and dietary changes. After years of misdiagnoses, she was finally diagnosed with Lyme disease by Dr. Aviva Romm. Her treatment strategies include:

• Keto Diet: Janna adopted a strict ketogenic diet, focusing on healthy fats, minerals, and low-sugar foods to reduce inflammation and restore gut health.
• Essential Oil Protocol: She used a blend of essential oils such as cinnamon bark, thyme, oregano, and tea tree oil to target Lyme bacteria and biofilms. Janna mixed the oils with a carrier oil (organic extra virgin olive oil) and took them in veggie capsules, adjusting dosages based on muscle testing and practitioner guidance.
• Lymphatic Detox Support: To assist her body’s detoxification, Janna incorporated infrared saunas, dry brushing, and regular exercise to support lymphatic drainage and symptom management.
• Mindset and Die-Off Preparation: She emphasizes the importance of mental resilience through die-off reactions—normal but challenging responses to microbial “kill” phases—reinforcing her belief in the body's capacity to heal.

The Tick Boot Camp PARM Model: Prehab, Assist, Rehab, and Maintenance

Janna resonated with Tick Boot Camp’s PARM model, a framework developed to guide chronic illness recovery:

• Prehab: Prioritizing detox and lymph support, as well as sleep, to prepare the body for treatment.
• Assist: Helping the body through the microbial “kill” phase by supporting immune function and enhancing the body’s ability to clear out pathogens like Lyme bacteria.
• Rehab: Focusing on healing the body from Lyme-related damage by incorporating nutrients, rest, and supportive practices that address neurological and physiological impacts.
• Maintenance: Creating sustainable wellness habits, like a nutrient-dense diet, stress reduction, and routine exercise, to support long-term health and prevent relapse.

Breast Implant Illness (BII) Journey and Explant Surgery

After successfully managing Lyme disease, Janna encountered Breast Implant Illness (BII), experiencing symptoms like brain fog, anxiety, and chest discomfort. Muscle testing confirmed that her implants were contributing to these issues. Janna chose to undergo explant surgery, a process requiring meticulous removal of both the implants and surrounding capsules. During her six-month recovery, she revisited protocols such as keto dieting and lymphatic detox to support her healing.

Mindset and Resilience in Healing

At the core of Jonna’s journey is her commitment to cultivating a strong, positive mindset—a cornerstone of her approach to overcoming both Lyme disease and BII. She emphasizes that "our actions follow our thoughts," underscoring the power of belief in recovery. Jonna’s experiences reinforced that mental resilience, paired with self-compassion, is essential when facing the daily challenges of chronic illness. This belief in the mind-body connection enabled her to persevere through difficult treatments and stay committed to her wellness goals, demonstrating the profound impact of mindset on long-term healing.

Books by Janna Johnson

Janna is the author of _Unf*ck Your Mind, which explores overcoming life’s challenges through mental resilience and self-compassion. Her upcoming book details her Lyme disease journey and provides readers with more information on her personalized healing protocols.

Key Takeaways for Those on a Chronic Illness Journey

• Dietary Changes are Foundational: Reducing sugars and carbohydrates can significantly impact inflammation and gut health, especially for those battling chronic illness.
• The Power of Essential Oils: When used properly, essential oils like cinnamon bark, thyme, oregano, and tea tree oil can support the body’s defense against microbes and biofilms.
• Detox Support is Vital: Methods like dry brushing, infrared saunas, and regular exercise help the body eliminate toxins and reduce Lyme symptoms.
• Mindset and Perseverance: Janna emphasizes that mental resilience is just as essential as any physical treatment in the healing process.

Join Janna Johnson in this episode as she shares her inspiring journey, from Texas to full health, while discussing the strategies and mindset that helped her overcome Lyme disease, breast implant illness, and chronic health issues. Her message is one of hope, resilience, and the belief that recovery is possible with a dedicated, holistic approach.

Listen Now to Discover:

• Janna’s essential oil protocol for Lyme disease
• Her thoughts on the Tick Boot Camp PARM model for chronic illness recovery
• Insights into breast implant illness and the explant recovery process
• Tips on treatment, diet, mindset, and self-care for chronic illness

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.