Tick Boot Camp

Episode 487: LIVE from ILADS: Dr. Jyotsna Shah - Advancing Lyme Disease Testing with IGeneX

Dr. Jyotsna Shah, PhD, is the President and Laboratory Director of IGeneX, a leading Lyme disease testing laboratory. With over 40 years of research experience in immunology, molecular biology, and microbiology, she holds more than 20 patents. Dr. Shah’s journey in Lyme disease research began at Harvard University, and she has since played a pivotal role in advancing diagnostic tools for tick-borne diseases. Under her leadership, IGeneX has developed innovative testing methods, including the first Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH) test for Babesia.

Key Takeaways:

  • IGeneX is considered the premier Lyme disease testing lab by the patient community due to the positive outcomes patients experience.
  • Dr. Shah's early exposure to Lyme disease research at Harvard University and a personal connection through a colleague led her to focus her career on this field.
  • The development of the Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) technique was a crucial factor in Dr. Shah's decision to pursue Lyme disease research.
  • Navigating the clinical lab management aspect of IGeneX was an unexpected challenge, but Dr. Shah worked closely with state inspectors to ensure the lab's safety and trustworthiness.
  • Obtaining insurance coverage for IGeneX's specialized tests has been an ongoing challenge, but the lab's focus on patient outcomes has earned it the trust of the Lyme disease community.

Resources & Links:

Episode 486: LIVE from ILADS: Dr. Jaquel Patterson - Navigating Lyme Disease Treatment

Introduction:

  • Welcome to the Tick Boot Camp podcast, recorded live from the ILADS Conference!
  • In this episode, we interview Dr. Jaquel Patterson, an internationally recognized naturopathic doctor with over 16 years of experience treating Lyme disease and complex chronic illnesses.
  • Dr. Patterson shares her journey, insights on naturopathic medicine, and key takeaways from the ILADS Conference.

Key Takeaways:

The Value of the ILADS Conference:

  • ILADS provides cutting-edge research, treatment advancements, and a network of dedicated Lyme-literate practitioners.
  • Dr. Patterson highlights the importance of collaboration and continuous education in treating Lyme disease effectively.

Challenges in Lyme Disease Treatment:

  • The shortage of Lyme-literate doctors creates barriers to proper diagnosis and treatment.
  • Dr. Patterson shares her personal experience with Lyme disease, emphasizing the need for patient advocacy and comprehensive healthcare approaches.

The Naturopathic Approach to Lyme Disease:

  • Naturopathic medicine focuses on identifying root causes, strengthening the immune system, and integrating personalized treatment strategies.
  • Dr. Patterson discusses the importance of addressing both physical and mental health to promote long-term healing.

Evolving Trends in Lyme Disease:

  • Growing recognition of post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome and the connection between infections and autoimmune conditions.
  • Advances in diagnostics and research are improving the detection of co-infections like Bartonella and Babesia.

Conclusion:

  • Dr. Patterson's expertise offers hope and valuable insights for patients navigating Lyme disease.
  • Stay informed, seek Lyme-literate practitioners, and explore holistic approaches to healing.

Resources & Links:

Episode 485: LIVE from ILADS: Dr. Joshua Green - Naturopathic Approach to Tick-Borne Illness

In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, we are LIVE from the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference with Dr. Joshua Green, a naturopathic doctor specializing in tick-borne illnesses and mold toxicity. Dr. Green shares his background, why he chose the naturopathic path, and how his approach differs from traditional allopathic medicine. He discusses the importance of mindset and belief in the healing process, as well as his journey to becoming an expert in tick-borne diseases. Dr. Green also talks about the composition of his patient community and how he can help those suffering from Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone seeking a more holistic and integrative approach to managing tick-borne diseases.

Key Takeaways:

  • Dr. Green's background and move from Michigan to Vermont
  • Reasons why he chose the naturopathic path over allopathic medicine
  • The benefits of naturopathic care, including a more holistic approach
  • Dr. Green's personal experience with homeopathy and its impact on his practice
  • The importance of mindset and belief in the healing process
  • Dr. Green's transition to specializing in tick-borne illnesses and mold toxicity
  • Composition of Dr. Green's patient community and his approach to treatment
  • How listeners can connect with Dr. Green and learn more about his practice

Resources & Links:

Episode 484: Whole-Person Recovery - an interview with Doctor Vy Simeles

Holistic Healing, Neuroplasticity, Detox, and More

In this transformative episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Dr. Vy Simeles shares her personal and professional journey into the world of naturopathic and integrative medicine. A leading physician at Restorative Health Clinic in Oregon, Dr. Simeles treats complex chronic illnesses such as Lyme disease using a gentle, patient-centered approach. With a focus on neuroplasticity, environmental medicine, and whole-person healing, this conversation offers hope and actionable strategies for those navigating chronic health conditions.

🔑 Key Topics Covered:

  • Dr. Simeles’ personal health journey to becoming an ND and acupuncturist
  • Naturopathic medicine vs. conventional allopathic care
  • The role of neuroplasticity in chronic illness recovery with specific recommendations
  • Detoxification techniques for Lyme and environmental illness
  • Whole-body healing strategies for vector-borne diseases

🌱 Top Takeaways:

  • Treat the whole person, not just the symptoms
  • Environmental toxins are a major barrier to recovery
  • Neuroplasticity offers real tools for nervous system healing
  • Detox can be gentle, effective, and personalized
  • Compassionate care and individualized treatment matter

đź‘Ą Who Should Listen:

  • Lyme disease warriors and caregivers
  • Anyone living with complex or chronic illness
  • Practitioners interested in integrative and naturopathic medicine
  • Individuals exploring brain retraining and nervous system healing

Episode 483: LIVE from ILADS: Frederika Montpetit - Klinik St. Georg’s Lyme Treatment Protocols

In this special live interview from the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference, Tick Boot Camp sits down with Frederika Montpetit from Klinik St. Georg in Germany. Known for their cutting-edge whole-body hyperthermia treatment, Klinik St. Georg has helped countless Lyme disease patients reclaim their health.

Key Topics Discussed

  • Klinik St. Georg’s Location and Patient Onboarding
    • Situated in Bucha, Bavaria, between Munich and Salzburg, Austria.
    • Frederika is the first point of contact for patients, guiding them through the onboarding process.
    • Patients can schedule a preliminary Zoom consultation before committing to in-person treatment.
  • The Lyme Disease Treatment Protocol at Klinik St. Georg
    • A 2-week intensive treatment program designed for chronic Lyme patients.
    • Whole-body hyperthermia raises body temperature to 41.6°C (106.88°F) to eliminate Borrelia bacteria.
    • Intravenous antibiotics, detoxification protocols, and complementary therapies (ozone, oxygen, and laser therapy).
    • The clinic has treated over 800 chronic Lyme patients with remarkable success.
  • Post-Treatment Recovery and Support
    • The detoxification phase can be intense but is critical for long-term healing.
    • Klinik St. Georg provides personalized supplement protocols and follow-up consultations.
    • Patients are advised to gradually reintroduce daily activities after treatment.

Montpetit encourages anyone considering treatment to reach out directly via the Klinik St. Georg website for more details. This ILADS interview provides a deep dive into a scientifically-backed, patient-centric approach to treating chronic Lyme disease.

Resources & Links

Episode 482: LIVE from ILADS: Wilberto Castillo - Innovations in Lyme Disease Diagnostics at Armin Labs

Introduction:

  • In this special episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, recorded live at the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference, we welcome Wilberto Castillo, a representative of ArminLabs.
  • ArminLabs, based in Augsburg, Germany, is a leading laboratory specializing in the diagnosis of tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease.

ArminLabs' Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach:

  • Innovative Testing Methods:
    • EliSpot Assay: Measures cellular immunity to detect active infections with an estimated sensitivity of 84% and specificity of 94%.
    • iSpot Assay: Assesses the immune system’s response to infections for deeper insights into immune activity.
  • Wide Range of Pathogen Detection:
    • Tests for Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease, as well as Bartonella, Babesia, Ehrlichia, and various viruses.
    • Offers T-cell and NK-cell testing to assess immune system suppression and infection activity.

Patient-Centric Services:

  • Remote Testing Options: Provides an at-home blood collection kit to make testing more accessible.
  • Personalized Test Recommendations: Uses patient questionnaires and analytical algorithms to recommend the most relevant tests for each individual.

Resources & Links:

Episode 481: LIVE from ILADS: Dr. Tania Dempsey - Transforming Lyme Disease Care

Join us for a special LIVE Tick Boot Camp Podcast interview from the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference, featuring Dr. Tania Dempsey—a world-renowned expert in chronic disease, autoimmune disorders, and mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). Dr. Dempsey, founder of the AIM Center for Personalized Medicine, shares critical insights into the future of Lyme disease treatment, medical education, and the systemic barriers preventing effective patient care.

Key Takeaways:

  • Dr. Dempsey’s role at ILADS: Moderating a Fundamentals course and delivering talks on Bartonella, mast cell activation syndrome, and SOT therapy
  • Challenges in diagnosing and treating Lyme disease: How insurance limitations, time constraints, and lack of awareness impact patient care
  • The need to train more clinicians: Shifting the mindset of medical students and young doctors toward chronic illness treatment
  • Systemic barriers in medicine: Legal risks and lack of incentives discourage physicians from treating chronically ill patients
  • ILADS' initiatives: Publishing research, updating guidelines, and using data/machine learning to improve treatment protocols
  • How to support ILADS: The importance of donations and funding to drive change in Lyme disease care

Resources & Links:

Episode 480: LIVE from ILADS: Ali White - Overcoming Lyme and Empowering the Community

Join us for a powerful live interview from the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference with Ali White, founder of Tick Chicks. Ali shares her personal battle with Lyme disease, the journey to finding a diagnosis, and her mission to support and empower the Lyme community through education, advocacy, and retreats.

Key Takeaways

  • Ali’s Lyme Journey: Ali recounts her seven-year struggle with undiagnosed Lyme disease, experiencing debilitating neurological symptoms, pain, and fatigue. Despite multiple misdiagnoses, she persisted in finding answers, eventually receiving a Lyme diagnosis.
  • Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment: Ali highlights the difficulties in receiving an accurate Lyme diagnosis and how chronic infections like Chronic Epstein-Barr Virus (CEBV) and Chronic Cytomegalovirus (CCMV) complicated her health.
  • Importance of ILADS-Trained Doctors: She stresses the critical role ILADS-trained doctors play in understanding and treating Lyme disease effectively.
  • The Tick Chicks Platform: Ali explains the mission behind Tick Chicks—creating an inviting, informative space for Lyme patients to access expert insights and personal stories.
  • The Losing Lyme Retreat: Ali discusses her initiative to bring top Lyme doctors and specialists to the Midwest, making high-quality care and education more accessible to patients who may not otherwise have access to Lyme-literate practitioners.
  • Holistic and Conventional Approaches: From IV infusions to antibiotics and lifestyle adjustments, Ali shares her treatment experiences and how she has reached a functional state of wellness.
  • Encouragement for Lyme Warriors: Ali offers hope and validation to those still searching for answers, emphasizing that healing is possible with persistence and the right support.

Resources & Links

Episode 479: LIVE from ILADS: Fred Diamond – Advocating for Lyme Patients Through Podcasting

Fred Diamond, author of Love Hope Lyme and host of the Love Hope Lyme podcast, joins us live from the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference. In this powerful conversation, Fred shares his journey with Lyme disease and his mission to provide support, hope, and resources for Lyme survivors and their loved ones.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

  • Fred highlights the emotional and social challenges Lyme patients face, including the impact on relationships due to the isolating nature of the disease.
  • He discusses strategies for healing fractured relationships, emphasizing communication, education, and empathy.

đź“Ś Resources & Links:

Episode 478: LIVE from ILADS: Dr. Cory Tichauer - A Naturopathic Approach to Lyme Disease

Join us for a special LIVE interview from the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference with Dr. Cory Tichauer, ND, a leading naturopathic doctor specializing in tick-borne illnesses. Dr. Tichauer shares his journey from a traditional Ivy League education to naturopathic medicine and explains why he chose a holistic, patient-centered approach over conventional allopathic treatment.

Dr. Tichauer discusses the growing complexity of Lyme disease, the impact of environmental factors, and the challenges chronic Lyme patients face within the current medical system. If you or a loved one is navigating chronic illness, this episode is a must-listen!

Key Takeaways:

  • A Unique Path to Healing: Dr. Tichauer’s journey from Cornell University to naturopathic medicine was influenced by his experiences studying traditional healing in Nepal.
  • Why Naturopathic Medicine? The importance of treating the root cause of illness through an integrative, whole-body approach.
  • Challenges in Chronic Illness Care: The limitations of the managed care system and the need for more time and personalized treatment for patients.
  • The Complexity of Lyme Disease: How Lyme and other tick-borne infections have evolved, requiring innovative and individualized treatment approaches.
  • Environmental Impact on Chronic Illness: The role of mold, toxins, and other environmental factors in immune dysfunction.
  • Commitment to the Lyme Community: Dr. Tichauer’s involvement with ILADS and his mission to support chronic illness patients with cutting-edge therapies.

Resources & Links:

The goal of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast is to help people liberate themselves and others from suffering caused by Lyme disease through validation, community building, belief that healing is possible, and modeling success. Listen to our Tick Boot Camp podcast using all major podcast streaming services such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Music. Our podcast is also integrated with smart home devices, such as Amazon Alexa and Apple TV. Ask your device to "play the Tick Boot Camp Podcast!"