Tick Boot Camp

Episode 426: Battling Babesia - an interview with Ryan Cassata

4 months ago

In this episode, Tick Boot Camp welcomes Ryan Cassata, a 30-year-old musician, activist, and Lyme disease warrior based in Los Angeles, CA. Ryan shares his compelling journey from a bustling music career to grappling with chronic illnesses like Babesiosis and Rickettsia. Through his candid discussion, Ryan provides insights into the challenges of living with tick-borne diseases and the importance of perseverance and community support.

Highlights:

  • Introduction to Ryan Cassata: Learn about Ryan's background as an award-winning singer-songwriter and activist, his life in Los Angeles, and his early passion for music.
  • Life Before Lyme: Ryan describes his vibrant life filled with music recording, touring, social activities, and running a music blog, which changed drastically after debilitating symptoms appeared in October 2023.
  • Early Health Challenges: Ryan shares his first experiences with severe joint pain and paralysis in his left toe in 2021, which were initially misdiagnosed as fibromyalgia.
  • Diagnosis Journey: Discover Ryan's path to a correct diagnosis of Babesiosis and Rickettsia shortly after his 30th birthday, following consultations with at least six doctors.
  • Treatment Regimen: Ryan details his ongoing treatment since November 2022, including supplements, ozone and UV light therapy, anti-malarial and anti-parasite drugs, herbs, IV glutathione, and CBD, with plans to start infrared sauna therapy.
  • Impact on Life and Career: Ryan discusses the significant impact of his illnesses on his ability to work, tour, record music, and socialize, sharing how he navigates these challenges.
  • Advice for Others: Ryan encourages those battling Lyme disease to hold on, seek second opinions, visualize overcoming the illness, and rely on loved ones for support.

Educational and Professional Background:

  • Master of Art in Social Transformation from Pacific School of Religion, graduated May 2023
  • ASCAP award-winning singer-songwriter
  • Recording Academy Voting Member (GRAMMYs)
  • Certificate of Congressional Recognition

Quotes from the Episode:

  • "Picture yourself as a superhero and the mission is to beat the illness. That has been helping me get through."
  • "It's okay to cry. It’s a very stressful illness."
  • "Wear the proper clothing and take the extra precautions when hiking or being in areas where ticks are often present."

Conclusion: Ryan Cassata's episode is a testament to resilience and the power of community in the face of chronic illness. His story provides hope and practical advice for those dealing with Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and valuable insights from the Tick Boot Camp Podcast.

Thank You: A special thanks to Ryan Cassata for sharing his journey and to our co-host, Maria Mooney, for contributing to this enriching conversation.

Stay Connected: Subscribe to the Tick Boot Camp Podcast for more episodes featuring stories of perseverance, hope, and valuable information on Lyme disease and tick-borne illnesses.

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 Google Podcasts. 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!"