When
I was in Kindergarten, my school celebrated May Day. We would hold
brightly colored ribbons and dance around a Maypole to celebrate the
coming of spring. I hesitate to mention that I used to be a "pole
dancer" - ha. I look back at those innocent days and smile.
Fast forward to this year and now I have added another "May" event. May is Lyme Disease Awareness month. Last week I attended a candlelight vigil, sponsored by the May Day Project, to honor and remember victims of Lyme disease. The Mayday Project was formed by a group of volunteers who have been touched by Lyme disease. The group advocates for more accurate tests, better guidelines, improved access to treatment, increased education for physicians, and more funding for research. It was an emotional event, but it made me more aware of the necessity for Lyme disease awareness. So many people attending the vigil shared their stories and it was shocking to hear how many people went YEARS without a Lyme diagnosis.
Heather was very fortunate to have a medical team that tested her for Lyme, than started the recommended treatment for IV antibiotics. She is healing. It is a slow process, but she is getting stronger every day. As always, I am proud of her positive attitude and brave face. I wish she didn't have to fake a smile to hide her pain, but that's what Lyme patients, or any person dealing with a chronic condition, do.
Fast forward to this year and now I have added another "May" event. May is Lyme Disease Awareness month. Last week I attended a candlelight vigil, sponsored by the May Day Project, to honor and remember victims of Lyme disease. The Mayday Project was formed by a group of volunteers who have been touched by Lyme disease. The group advocates for more accurate tests, better guidelines, improved access to treatment, increased education for physicians, and more funding for research. It was an emotional event, but it made me more aware of the necessity for Lyme disease awareness. So many people attending the vigil shared their stories and it was shocking to hear how many people went YEARS without a Lyme diagnosis.
Heather was very fortunate to have a medical team that tested her for Lyme, than started the recommended treatment for IV antibiotics. She is healing. It is a slow process, but she is getting stronger every day. As always, I am proud of her positive attitude and brave face. I wish she didn't have to fake a smile to hide her pain, but that's what Lyme patients, or any person dealing with a chronic condition, do.
Speaking of Lyme Disease Awareness, my Mom has painted her nails lime green. When strangers comment and ask about her bold color choice, she tells people that her granddaughter has Lyme disease and then she shares Heather's story. So please feel free to share this blog and share Heather's story. The quicker the diagnosis, the greater the chance for recovery.
