posted
Over the years, I've heard so many people asking, is there any hope of full recovery from chronic Lyme?
It is to those people that I write this. At about this date in the year 2000, I woke up one morning in Maryland with a deer tick embedded in my thigh. I developed an EM rash around the bite, but was denied antibiotics by the doctor I consulted.
In May 2001, I had become so sick I could hardly get out of bed for at least half the days of each month.
By May 2002, I was several months into treatment for Lyme with oral and IV antibiotics. My herxes were so severe, the herxes nearly killed me a couple of times.
I required treatment for Lyme and coinfections for years. I suffered from many neurological symptoms, endured several bouts of encephalitis and meningitis, had severe fatigue and joint pain, experienced pituitary malfunctions, and cardiac problems. My LLMD stated several times that I was probably in the category of people who would require maintenance antibiotics for the rest of my life just to survive.
This May, I am now off of antibiotics and all other treatments for four years. AND, I just graduated from nursing school, with honors.
Chronic Lyme can be beat!!!! Don't ever give up.
Posts: 962 | From Charleston | Registered: Jan 2002
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posted
Can you tell us how you beat it Maryland Mom?
Posts: 196 | From Let's Go Pens! | Registered: Apr 2010
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Dekrator48
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 18239
posted
Congratulations on getting well and for graduating with honors!!
Thanks for sharing your good news!!
I'm very happy for you!
-------------------- The fibromyalgia I've had for 32 years was an undiagnosed Lyme symptom.
"For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future". -Jeremiah 29:11 Posts: 6076 | From Pennsylvania, USA | Registered: Nov 2008
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TF
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 14183
posted
Thanks for coming on here and telling us! What a story!
Posts: 9931 | From Maryland | Registered: Dec 2007
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Lauralyme
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 15021
posted
That is FANTASTIC!!
Honors yet! How inspiring!
-------------------- Fall down seven times, get up eight ~Japanese proverb Posts: 1146 | From west coast | Registered: Mar 2008
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lyme in Putnam
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 11561
posted
God bless
-------------------- He took u to it, He'll you through Posts: 2837 | From NE. | Registered: Apr 2007
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Great to hear, especially for those of us still deep in the trenches!
Congrats!
-------------------- ? date of bite/no rash 10/09 symptoms, 4/10 diagnosed, after 6 mos. ER visits, tons of docs/tests CDC+ 23/39/41/45/58/66/93 currently on oral plaquenil, doryx, rifampin, pyrazinamide, nystatin, numerous supplements Posts: 718 | From Pennsylvania | Registered: Jun 2010
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Jane2904
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 15917
posted
Congrats!!!
Thanks for posting. It gives me hope for our daughter.
Posts: 1357 | From Massachusetts | Registered: Jun 2008
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posted
Thanks for your well wishes, everyone! I hope my story gives some of you encouragement.
I don't get on this site often anymore since I am well, but I have some close friends who have recently been diagnosed, and that got me thinking about all those who are still in the trenches, looking for hope, looking for the right diagnosis, right doctor, right treatment...
You are ALL in my thoughts and prayers. Don't ever give up!! I hope to read YOUR success stories one day.
P.S. trialthetelymie, I tried to answer your PM, but your mailbox is full.
Posts: 962 | From Charleston | Registered: Jan 2002
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Catgirl
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 31149
posted
I am sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo happy for you! Your story is really inspiring for the rest of us. Thank you for sharing!
-------------------- --Keep an open mind about everything. Also, remember to visit ACTIVISM (we can change things together). Posts: 5418 | From earth | Registered: Mar 2011
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posted
I am so excited for you, Congrats in your accomplishments. This lifts my spirits of hope! I have been ill since 2003 diagnosed Aug 2010 only after seeing lyme literate dr. Posts: 3 | From NE Wisconsin | Registered: Aug 2010
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AuntyLynn
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 35938
posted
You are living proof that there IS LIGHT at the end of this tunnel!
Thanks so much for sharing!
May you be blessed, and be a blessing to others, in your new career!
Posts: 1432 | From New Jersey | Registered: Jan 2012
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thanks for posting and congrats!
Posts: 908 | From Albany | Registered: Nov 2008
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gigimac
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 33353
posted
That is awesome! I find this very encouraging. Thank you for sharing this with us.
You are exactly where I aspire to be. I plan on going to nursing school as soon as I am well enough to do so. After everything I have been through I want to get into the medical field.
Thank you again for sharing this and giving us encouragement!!
Posts: 1534 | From Greensboro NC | Registered: Aug 2011
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lymeinhell
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 4622
posted
Congratulations! I'm sure your story of hope has inspired many here.
-------------------- Julie _ _ ___ _ _ lymeinhell
Blessed are those who expect nothing, for they shall not be disappointed. Posts: 2258 | From a better place than I was 11 yrs ago | Registered: Sep 2003
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nonna05
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 33557
posted
So happy for you !!!!!!!!! Posts: 2563 | From Denver,CO | Registered: Aug 2011
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posted
I can understand why people may want to know how I got well. I remember all too well how it feels to be too ill to function so much of the time, to feel lost in some hostile, uncharted territory, desperately searching for someone to draw me a map out!
Obviously, what worked for me will not necessarily work for everybody, and I'm sure there are treatments I didn't try that may be quite effective.
That being said...since 2002, I have been treated by 3 different LLMDs. Without giving out names here, I'll just say the first was in Maryland, and after a year he asked me if he could refer my case to a prominent LLMD who was practicing in NY at that time.
I became a patient of the NY LLMD for several years, but after moving further south, I transferred to another prominent LLMD who is now practicing in DC.
I was also under the care of a Lyme literate endocrinologist for several years.
As for the treatments that worked for me: I did many rounds of antibiotic therapy, in various combinations of orals, IV, and IM injections.
I was evaluated repeatedly for coinfections, tested positive and was treated for Ehrlichia and mycloplasma pneumoniae in addition to Lyme. I also did several rounds of Mepron and mefloquine for a Babesia coinfection.
I did mostly pulse therapy in courses of varying lengths depending on the severity of my illness at that time, and the severity of my herxes. I took antibiotic "holidays" at intervals prescribed by my LLMD.
I took a lot of supportive supplements (but only those recommended by my LLMD!), including Mg, multivitamins, CoQ10, fish oil, omega 3 fatty acids, B12 injections, and others as the need arose.
Under the care of my endocrinologist, I started treatment for severe thyroid, adrenal, and growth hormone deficiencies.
I maintained a low carb, high protein diet that included lots of raw veggies and lean meats.
I exercised regularly.
I sought help from my doctor as needed for pain and sleep problems.
And I prayed--a lot!!!
I think that my therapy followed Burrascano's treatment guidelines pretty closely, and for me, it worked. It took about 7 years of treatment before the last of my symptoms finally fell away, and the relapses stopped.
I think the number one most important aspect for me, and for everyone is a POSITIVE ATTITUDE. Keep a sense of humor, and celebrate the victories each day, no matter how small!
I hope this helps a little! Posts: 962 | From Charleston | Registered: Jan 2002
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posted
You are wonderful to share the good news on your recovery. Congratulations on beating lyme and obtaining your nursing degree. Nursing school is not easy. Good luck on the NCLEX and may the rest of your life be full of happiness and health.
Posts: 747 | From Utah | Registered: Apr 2010
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RZR
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 20953
posted
Thank you so much for taking the time to come back here and encourage us!
I have been so discouraged lately and wanting to give up, but you give me hope!
Congrats on the nursing degree!!
-------------------- Tick bite May 2009 Diagnosed June 2009 Posts: 2329 | From SouthEast | Registered: Jun 2009
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posted
This is such an awesome and inspirational story!!!
Thanks for taking the time to come back and tell us about your recovery!
Congratulations!!!
Posts: 169 | From The Poconos | Registered: Jun 2011
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nonna05
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 33557
posted
Thank You...Sounds like the endocrinologist played a big part in your healing .
Prayer and a good attitude / also...the excersise!
I pray the Lord uses you in a mighty way with your nursing skills... Gods Speed, Nonna
Posts: 2563 | From Denver,CO | Registered: Aug 2011
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Rivendell
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 19922
posted
Well, there is hope, even after seven years.
Thanks so much for sharing this.
Your patients will be blessed.
Posts: 1358 | From Midwest | Registered: Apr 2009
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"I still have Mt.Everest to climb, but I have traveled across the world and arrived at the mountain". Posts: 633 | From baltimore | Registered: Mar 2010
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Kudzuslipper
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 31915
posted
Wow. Thank you for sharing. And congratulations.
Posts: 1725 | From USA | Registered: May 2011
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Tincup
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 5829
posted
I love it when a plan comes together! Congratulations! Be well and have some fun!
posted
Thanks for the encouragement. I recently have been depressed hearing about all the people that have not been able to beat this disease. It does my heart good to hear that it is and can be beat. You go girl!
Posts: 620 | From Ks | Registered: Oct 2011
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posted
I am so happy to hear your great news!!! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your story and give others hope!
Congratulations on your nursing degree, may your future bring you nothing but excellent health and happiness!
Posts: 486 | From USA | Registered: Jan 2012
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So happy to hear you are doing fabulous...stay that way.
It gives so many people the encouragement to go on and fight till its gone..
Thank you for posting!
God Bless and good health for the future...no more lyme
-------------------- Angelp Posts: 78 | From connecticut | Registered: Mar 2012
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nonna05
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 33557
posted
Thank you again for coming back and posting ,responding.. You're right we can feel so helpless at times ,even though we are taking everything plus the kitchen sink in..
Time just goes so slow waiting for a sign of wellness and yet a week will go by and I'll still think I just missed a day or two,,.
It's the weirdest thing being held down.....
I just want to take my Happy Camper pill and get on with the show... Hit at 48-49 ish. Waiting ,in my mind to start there and catch=up..Yeah right! Posts: 2563 | From Denver,CO | Registered: Aug 2011
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Catgirl
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 31149
posted
MarylandMom, thank you so much for sharing all of this (you rock). I needed this today (depressed from an abx I'm on). I am so happy to hear that you made it, and am thrilled that you came back and posted on your success!
quote:Originally posted by Maryland Mom: ...As for the treatments that worked for me: I did many rounds of antibiotic therapy, in various combinations of orals, IV, and IM injections.
I was evaluated repeatedly for coinfections, tested positive and was treated for Ehrlichia and mycloplasma pneumoniae in addition to Lyme. I also did several rounds of Mepron and mefloquine for a Babesia coinfection.
I did mostly pulse therapy in courses of varying lengths depending on the severity of my illness at that time, and the severity of my herxes. I took antibiotic "holidays" at intervals prescribed by my LLMD.
I took a lot of supportive supplements (but only those recommended by my LLMD!), including Mg, multivitamins, CoQ10, fish oil, omega 3 fatty acids, B12 injections, and others as the need arose.
Under the care of my endocrinologist, I started treatment for severe thyroid, adrenal, and growth hormone deficiencies.
I maintained a low carb, high protein diet that included lots of raw veggies and lean meats.
I exercised regularly.
I sought help from my doctor as needed for pain and sleep problems.
And I prayed--a lot!!!
I think that my therapy followed Burrascano's treatment guidelines pretty closely, and for me, it worked. It took about 7 years of treatment before the last of my symptoms finally fell away, and the relapses stopped.
I think the number one most important aspect for me, and for everyone is a POSITIVE ATTITUDE. Keep a sense of humor, and celebrate the victories each day, no matter how small!
I hope this helps a little! :)
-------------------- --Keep an open mind about everything. Also, remember to visit ACTIVISM (we can change things together). Posts: 5418 | From earth | Registered: Mar 2011
| IP: Logged |
posted
I am so glad when I can help and/or encourage some people here!! It breaks my heart to hear of so many people struggling so much. Those of us who have found success of any type in this battle against Lyme all need to pay it forward.
Hopefully, we will all beat this disease eventually!
Posts: 962 | From Charleston | Registered: Jan 2002
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posted
Congratulations! Wonderful news... thank you for sharing that you have recovered!
Posts: 396 | From EAPennsylvania | Registered: Dec 2007
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posted
Thanks for some hope !! My daughter was just diagnosed this week after going to the emergency room on sunday with what turned out to be belles palsy. She lives in Baltimore and we are looking for some help and some hope here.. I just joined here last night
Posts: 3 | From new columbia , pa. | Registered: Jun 2012
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I just sent you a PM.
Posts: 962 | From Charleston | Registered: Jan 2002
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Lymedin2010
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 34322
posted
Congrats!!!!
I love nurses who have or have had Lyme, they make the best healthcare practitioners.
My sister had Lyme and also graduated Nursing school with honors thereafter.
Continued success and thanks for posting, we all need the encouragement.
[ 07-03-2012, 05:20 AM: Message edited by: Lymedin2010 ]
Posts: 2087 | From NY | Registered: Oct 2011
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CherylSue
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 13077
posted
Awesome story! Thanks for coming back and sharing. God bless you!
Posts: 1954 | From Illinois | Registered: Aug 2007
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philly78
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 31069
posted
I don't know how I missed this thread.
YAY!!! for you. Thanks for sharing.
You're gonna be an AWESOME nurse.
-------------------- When faced with pain you have two choices....either quit and accept the circumstances, OR make the decision to fight with all the resources you have at your disposal. Posts: 1000 | From PA | Registered: Mar 2011
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-------------------- ? date of bite/no rash 10/09 symptoms, 4/10 diagnosed, after 6 mos. ER visits, tons of docs/tests CDC+ 23/39/41/45/58/66/93 currently on oral plaquenil, doryx, rifampin, pyrazinamide, nystatin, numerous supplements Posts: 718 | From Pennsylvania | Registered: Jun 2010
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Lymedin2010
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 34322
posted
What field will you specialize in? Any interest in the Lyme treatment arena?
If I could change professions I probably would and go into research.
How bad would you say your twitches and tremors were while you were sick? Were they from head to toe? Did you feel like something larger was in your body and squirming or moving around?
Posts: 2087 | From NY | Registered: Oct 2011
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posted
Thank you so much Maryland Mom for sharing your deliverance from this hellish disease! I've been so discouraged tonight, but you have given me HOPE to carry on and believe my son and I can get through this. God Bless You!
Posts: 463 | From Sandusky, Ohio | Registered: Jan 2012
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