I guess she was posting too much science. Too much of the other point of view.
She predicted this herself not too ago.
I am sure there are many of you who are happy about this, just like you were happy to see Cave banned. You know who you are.
Soon, LymeNet will belong to you exclusively.
I feel for anyone new looking for advice here.
I feel ashamed to keep signing my name to posts here.
Don't bother banning me, Jennifer.
Michelle
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
You've got to be kidding me!!! What in the world did she do "wrong?"
Who do they REALLY want on this board???
Posted by Michelle M (Member # 7200) on :
quote:Originally posted by Lymetoo: What in the world did she do "wrong?"
Who do they REALLY want on this board???
Like I said -- No note, no email. Just banned.
She did nothing. Her posts were unfailingly kind.
As to what "they" want -- well, I think it's pretty obvious.
Posted by charlie (Member # 25) on :
it's why the old timers are abandoning this site in droves...
Posted by hanginginthere (Member # 11685) on :
please!!! please!!! please!!! help this NOT to be true!!!!
I rely on her...I read everything she writes...she's one of my lifelines.
I can't imagine anyone more giving or kind. I feel like I could cry...or scream.
This can't be happening!!!!!!!! Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
I don't get it.
Posted by fancykat (Member # 7857) on :
I usually read but post very little. I have seen the changes over the past few months, although I believe it's been a slow progression for a much longer time.
This is just ridiculous. All of the members whose resources I have turned to and valued on this site have been booted? The ones who seem to have the most grounded, reasonable and helpful info? They have been IMMENSELY helpful to me. And now I don't know what to do.
I have seen so much nastiness, emotional knee-jerk reactions, and passive aggressiveness from members that it has been a major task to weed through all that to get to some help.
I'm saddened. And I'm upset that I will no longer receive the advice, humor, lightness, logic and support from some of the brightest stars here.
Posted by heiwalove (Member # 6467) on :
what???!!! why??
okay, this really makes no sense to me whatsoever.
she is one of the KINDEST and most helpful members we have.
please reinstate her. this is ridiculous.
ps. michelle, you're wrong in your assumption that all of us who espouse alternative treatments are 'glad' to see sarah banned. though she and i may not always agree, i think she's an amazing person and i value her presence here immensely. she is always respectful and always kind, helpful, and informative and she has a heart of GOLD. i am incredibly saddened and upset that this has happened.
Posted by AliG (Member # 9734) on :
I am without words at the moment. Posted by bettyg (Member # 6147) on :
here is the note she sent me, and I'M TOTALLY SHOCKED, SADDENED, AND UPSET SARAH, WHO SPENT HOURS ON HERE WITH PUB MED INFO, ETC. WAS BANNED!
Keep up the good fight Betty. Don't undertsand what is going on, but I guess I am not as worthwhile as I thought)*!
Oh well (I've been banned, no letter, no reason given.
After so many years of helping out I am a bit stunned frankly. Was seriously depressed for about 15 minutes.
Shocked. Saddened. Oh well.
Hold the fort- the newbies need you & LymeToo more than ever now-
Take care. Respectfully, Sincerely, Sarah O.
*****************
michelle, thanks for posting this as i was going to with what i received above.
sarah, who set up a 1-800 no. to help fellow lymies; who read pub-med every morning to give us the latest on her efforts.
awhile back in SUPPORT, someone asked WHAT DO YOU DO FOR LYME EFFORTS; if that reader reads this, please show your link on this thread please !
i was OVERWHELMED with how sarah has devoted her LIFE to helping all lymies and raising her 2 kids with a very sick husband!
Lou B and Jenifer, please reply to this thread WHY one of you banned her; specifically ok.
she welcomed all folks here as i do; helped get them to their 1st LLMDs, gave links galore on every IMAGINABLE SUBJECT raised, and what an ACTIVE ACTIVIST emailing here//there plus many phone calls.
lyme rallies ... she went to as many as possible including east coast from california!
LOU B AND JENIFER,
PLEASE i am begging you to let sarah come back as she is a GOLD-MINE OF INFO, USING THE SEARCH functions for manythings needed including many things for TINCUP'S big projects.
tell her specifically what she has done so she will NOT REPEAT it again. she's got a deep pockets heart, and cares about all.
she also will NOT take crap here since the boards have not been moderated as well during your absence lou. i realize it's TOO MUCH for jenifer alone to do and even 2 folks like yourself lou!!
we've been infilitrated so much this past year by trolls that have slipped thru the cracks and have made their presence known by instigating fights and absurd comments that we feel the NEED TO DEFEND!
PLEASE UNBAN SARAH IMMEDIATELY; she doesn't deserve this.
this darn lyme causing lyme rages that get out of hand ... i've hated seeing this happen on the board and to many good friends who have contributed their KNOWLEDGE unconditionally.
Lou and Jenifer, I also would like an update on the fund drive; how much is needed and how do you plan to use this money.
i do hope we can get something fixed since the major lightning strike since the board is down so much like the good OLDEN days when i joined here. THANKS FOR THE FUTURE UPDATE! Posted by minoucat (Member # 5175) on :
I don't understand. If she didn't get an email how does she know she was banned?
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
That was sweet of her to mention lil ole me. She contributed so much to this board and to Lyme patients in general.
I do hope she will be reinstated. I'm at a loss for words as well.
Posted by lymednva (Member # 9098) on :
I don't understand either.
One reason is that she is still showing as a member in the directory. Banned members do not show up.
If she has indeed been banned it is a sad day for this forum, indeed. Posted by AliG (Member # 9734) on :
I just tried to send a PM and it said her mailbox was full.
?????
Could she be mistaken? I didn't think they banned you without a note.
Posted by daise (Member # 13622) on :
Californialyme is banned?
That doesn't make any sense.
What on Earth for?
She's an example for all.
Can we not help others?
Makes no sense.
What????????????????????
Twilight Zone. Do-do-do-do ... do-do-do-do-DAHHHH
Daise
Posted by Ellie K (Member # 12056) on :
This has to be some kind of a mistake, no???
Posted by bettyg (Member # 6147) on :
i received this tonight, and thought it applies to this situation...
from reading your comments above, here's my GUESS! when they ban or PUT THEM ON HOLD to cool them off, when they go to log in, they can NOT. perhaps it states YOU ARE BANNED at this point.
i do NOT know! i just hear privately from many o those who have been banned!
tutu, yes, i wanted you to know that; so i included her whole note to me! Posted by BJG (Member # 4723) on :
My concern is this.
Who on this board is so hypersensitive that they cannot accept different opinions and/or heated discussions.
With Lyme comes many emotional issues. I am praying that the "EMOTIONAL" side of this board is not controlling the scientific, medical and informative part.
It is my responsibility if I take posts personally.
Anyone who spends as much time on the board as people like Cave, Marnie, Gigi, CalifLyme, Tutu and others, are committed to one thing: Getting and Giving Lyme Info.
I thought the objective of Lymenet is to get healthy.
What has happened?
Respectfully, Peace, BJG Posted by daise (Member # 13622) on :
I tried to watch your link, BettyG, but I was afraid the music would wake my neighbors!
I'm just sick about Sarah being banned.
It makes me not want to make friends here if people could be so easily banned--for no reason.
This is the United States Of America!
Sarah is important here. It won't be the same without her. She helped a lot of people.
I'm really upset. And angry.
Sarah, if you read this:
I don't believe it.
Daise
Posted by Soleilpie (Member # 8481) on :
I hope it's just some kind of misunderstanding.
CaliforniaLyme is a stand up person. I can't imagine that she's done anything to warrant being banned.
If she's been banned, please allow her to return.
Posted by heiwalove (Member # 6467) on :
if you're reading this, sarah, i miss you already.
i really hope this is some sort of mistake.
Posted by Robin123 (Member # 9197) on :
I hope this report is a mistake. Sarah is one of the most helpful people here. She is kind. She is informative. She is funny. She is dedicated. She inspires people with her success story. She is instantly responsive and goes out of her way to help people. She has a national hotline for Lyme that she has operated out of her home for several years. She saves people's lives. I feel proud and honored to know her. I couldn't give a higher accolade to someone here.
If there are any problems, people deserve to know what the problems are and be given the chance to clear up the misunderstanding so everyone doesn't have to leave lymenet.
Posted by sizzled (Member # 1357) on :
You're kidding, right?
You've GOT to be kidding!!!!!!!
Can someone PLEASE explain what is going on?
WHAT rule did she break????
Posted by pamoisondelune (Member # 11846) on :
Most people who read lymenet would probably vote to have this valuable contirbutor restored.
Can we have a vote to override the ban?
Posted by Robin123 (Member # 9197) on :
Well, I just checked member status, and she is listed as a member. So maybe there is some kind of error here. Anyway, Sarah is a major backbone of this site and should stay!
Posted by hardynaka (Member # 8099) on :
Robin, I just did a 'search' on her number, the search came back 'this number is not listed as a member' or something like that.
Another member, Jimbob, has also been banned. I suspect the thread responsible for that was the one on Buhner/ Cowden, by Heiwalove.
I'm sad to know that for both members, Sarah AND Jimbob. But I somehow understand both points of views... and give reason to each of them.
I just think that things should be kept cool in open discussions here!! Lymenetters lose when people with long term experience with any protocol/s whatsoever get banned.
I hope it's just temporary like it was for previous banned people. Selma
Posted by David95928 (Member # 3521) on :
WHAT IS GOING ON??????????????????
It seems to me that it is time for a new forum. I'm about done with this.
Posted by Vermont_Lymie (Member # 9780) on :
This is really shocking and unfortunate. Sarah has done so much to help people, and is a big inspiration to me and so many. Why in the world would she be banned from any forum dealing with lyme disease?
Indeed, as Sarah pointed out, newbies need lymetoo and betty and all our help more than ever now that two of the most caring and dedicated knowledgeable posters are banned.
Posted by treepatrol (Member # 4117) on :
What happened?
Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
This is very worrying and I am not happy to hear about this.
DLL
Posted by cjnelson (Member # 12928) on :
I simply do NOT understand....
Posted by Geneal (Member # 10375) on :
Not Sarah. Not Cavey.
What in the world is going on???!!!!
Not JimBob too?????!!!!!!
Is this a Lymenet cleaning house activity????
Please, please Lou and Jennifer, let these invaluable members back on. Please???!!!!
I shudder to think of the loss of insight, education, information and yes
Friendship We will all be missing.
We are going into the Christmas season.
I humbly ask the administrators to show some compassion and allow these banned members back.
We all need the info they provide as well as their messages of hope.
Hugs,
Geneal
Posted by canbravelyme (Member # 9785) on :
What's disturbing about this slow quiet process is that systematically all the most active and long-standing members of this board are being targeted.
Next is: tree? bettyg? lymetoo?
I think it's time for an alternate board. Would you guys like me to look into options on the net about setting one up? Does anyone who is reading this have an option?
Best wishes,
Posted by Peacesoul (Member # 13709) on :
I'm new here and been on this site less than a month and since being here a few peeps were banned. This site is so drama ridden and filled with ridiculous politics. I have no clue why anyone was banned, but it seems to me the mods or admins are on some sort of power trip.......too bad b/c this site should be about healing and healing does not include drama. I'm grateful for my other lyme site b/c this one seems too aggresive and "far out" for me
weird! oh and by the way, I thought calilyme was a great gal. She had lots of helpful info and offered her side of lyme. Which ALL SIDES are needed in order for everyone to make the right choices
Posted by Truthfinder (Member # 8512) on :
I am dumbfounded. I do not understand why this happened. I cannot recall any recent threads where Sarah may have said anything to lead to this. Has anyone?
Yes, Ali - you can be banned without warning. It happened to NatureLover and Arrow. I was not given any information from Jenifer as to why they were banned - just that they were.
And now JimBob, too? He hardly even posts these days! (Oh, I just saw Selma's post about the Buhner/ Cowden thread, and I had not read that one for awhile.)
Well, in case I am next, it has been nice getting to know all of you the past couple of years..... Posted by merrygirl (Member # 12041) on :
WHAT?!&#!%^&
This is just messed up!
I stay out of all the BS here, but this is just plain wrong!
Sarah is always a positive lovely person with TONS of knowledge and I am sick to my stomach.
WHAT IS GOING ON WITH THIS SITE?
Posted by Aniek (Member # 5374) on :
There are multiple posts to the Buhner v. Cowden thread that have been edited by a moderator. It seems clear to me that there were things written that were deemed inappropriate. But we will not find those now.
Hopefully explanations will be provided to those who were banned, and perhaps this is just temporary.
Posted by oxygenbabe (Member # 5831) on :
This is only a wild guess and may be totally wrong, but what comes to mind is her posting on the guy at her workplace (or former workplace?) who was HIV positive and handsome and in her description preyed on young women where he worked. There was just enough detail in that post that the moderators and site might have been considered legally liable. Esp. because of HIV confidentiality laws. That was a thread I contributed to as someone posted a case in Illinois involving AIDS.
Have no idea about JimBob I always enjoyed his posts.
Strange times.
Posted by Michelle M (Member # 7200) on :
quote:Originally posted by Truthfinder:
Yes, Ali - you can be banned without warning. It happened to NatureLover and Arrow. I was not given any information from Jenifer as to why they were banned - just that they were.
For the record, "Nature Lover" and "Arrow" were NOT long time LymeNet posters like Sarah. They were not activists who devoted most of their days to helping every new poster who appeared here to find their way.
Rather, they were two people who materialized out of nowhere for the purpose of posting on the "miracle mineral" thread.
If they made any other contribution to LymeNet, then I apologize -- I must have missed it.
Sarah was not one to say "What has LymeNet done for me lately?"
She was one to say "What can I do for LymeNet today?"
HUGE difference.
Posted by treepatrol (Member # 4117) on :
anyone wants to know what happened I would ask moderators about it through emails. Posted by merrygirl (Member # 12041) on :
Michelle, I realize that those people were new, but my point was that within the past week, other people have been banned with no explanation. I don't think it is particularly good SOB (standard operating procedure) in either case, do you?
And for the record, the new members did not ``materialize out of nowhere''. The evolution of how they got here is evident on other websites with connections to LymeNet members - NatureLover in particular came here by connecting with another LymeNet member.
Hey, Tree - I already tried that. I did receive a reply, but no information as to what happened or why.
Posted by DesperationIn (Member # 13121) on :
This has to be a mistake here. Sarah's posts are incredibly caring, tactful and helpful to all. Also, she is an incredibly encouraging person who gives those like myself a lot of hope and provides invaluable insight. What in the world is going on?
-Despin
Posted by ldfighter (Member # 9405) on :
This is insane.
When longtime members who help people day in and day out with compassion and valuable information are suddenly banned, the entire board deserves a public explanation. IMO.
Posted by Annick73 (Member # 13795) on :
When I first came to this board I was extremely concerned about my illness and did not know where to go or what to do next. That was until I received a private message from Sarah. She has been extremely helpful. I am stunned by the news this morning. Sarah was the beat at the heart of this forum. Thumbs down to this site.
Posted by Allie (Member # 10778) on :
I am very upset with this news. I actively searched out her VERY helpful posts!!!
This is a sad day for Lymenet!
Allie
Posted by David95928 (Member # 3521) on :
Deleted
[ 21. November 2007, 12:03 PM: Message edited by: David95928 ]
Posted by treepatrol (Member # 4117) on :
quote:Originally posted by Truthfinder:
Hey, Tree - I already tried that. I did receive a reply, but no information as to what happened or why.
It takes me sometimes a couple to 3 days to get a reply and this is thanksgiving weekend so it may be longer?
Posted by Truthfinder (Member # 8512) on :
I already got a reply, Tree.... (see above)
Posted by treepatrol (Member # 4117) on :
quote:Originally posted by Truthfinder: I already got a reply, Tree.... (see above)
Sorry iam really tired today bin up since 3:45 am
Posted by mushroomman06 (Member # 13088) on :
Please let her back! I'm lost in words and thoughts.
Posted by savebabe (Member # 9847) on :
Sarah gave this board hope!!! Please bring Sarah back, we miss her!! Posted by merrygirl (Member # 12041) on :
quote:I suspect an IDSA backed and/or personality disordered troll is behind this
I agree!
Divide and conquer!!!
We are smarter than this people Lyme or no Lyme!! Posted by CaliforniaLyme (Member # 7136) on :
I was banned last night. It was horrible. I came on to post and was posting and went from one post to another and then it said, "Your posting ability has been revoked" in little black letters and wouldn't let me do ANYTHING, not even read stuff. And I had no letter in my ebox and was very upset. I am surprised at how upset I was actually. It really HURT. A lot. Way more than I had htought it could or would.
This morning I got a really nice note from Lou B that Jenifer had banned me while investigating something and then had re-instated me.
I am more relieved than you know or could ever guess. I was up most of the night and cried a bunch, while I had thought that, "Heck, if I got banned it wouldn't get to me."
Instead, I found that it really, really matters even more than I thought it did for me. You guys really really matter. This place really, really matters.
Thank you so much you guys, I didn't know this thread existed until right now when I just read it and you guys were so nice.
As of this morning I am UN-banned. I am so grateful. It was horrible. Thank you!!
I think Lou B is wonderful and I think our moderators do the best they can with a board that is gosh-darned difficult. I know I wouldn't want to moderate it- and I am grateful for them both, very much so.
I am SO grateful to be here you don't even know, in fact, I am crying AGAIN!!! But from gratitude- Very Sincerely, Sarah
Posted by Itsy_bitsyone (Member # 12635) on :
Lyme Enigma is NOT for alternavistas, its a healthy debate on Lyme and related issues (like thyroid, etc) in a mature way that doesn't endorse ANY particular method of treatment. Its friendly and laid back. BUT, with a scientifical/medical bent.
Sarah is a member of both BUT posts mostly at Europe. Cave as well.
I came here JUST to post this because I'm not really interested in the drama here and rarely ever come even look.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
SARAH IS BACK!!!!! Posted by Lily (Member # 13158) on :
Her posts have helped me tremendously.
Isn't that what Lymenet is all about?
Lily
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
Hi Nancy!! Love ya!!!
Posted by merrygirl (Member # 12041) on :
YAY YAY YAY!!!!!!!~~~!!@~!~!
I am so glad you are here!!
Welcome back!!!
Thanks to the moderators!! Posted by Vermont_Lymie (Member # 9780) on :
quote:Originally posted by Lymetoo: SARAH IS BACK!!!!!
Best news I have heard all day! Sarah, you are a treasure for lymenet.
I am still going to visit that other great forum on the other side of the virtual Atlantic.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
SARAH, SARAH, SARAH!!
(that was a chant!!) Posted by hanginginthere (Member # 11685) on :
I hopped over to the over forum last night too--just in case that was the only place to 'see' my favorite people.
I'm simply thrilled that you, Sarah, are still here!!!and many others as well!!! Posted by AliG (Member # 9734) on :
copied from general support:
(((SARAH!!!!))) *)!)*)!*)!)!!!
I can't possibly tell you how happy I am to see you back here right now!!!!!!!
(I'm sobbing hysterically!)
I knew if I believed hard enough, things would start falling back into place.
I hope the rest falls back in too!
Ali
Posted by Marz (Member # 3446) on :
Forum: A medium for open discussion or voicing of ideas, such as a newspaper, a radio or television program, or a website.
"Open discussion" are the key words here!
I have so appreciated Lymenet over the years. There's info here I could get nowhere else and what better than someone's personal experience or dedicated research to help a fellow sufferer learn.
I've not agreed with every poster but that's ok the info might be helpful for someone else. But the ones banned have been especially knowledgeable and so kind to share what they know.
Why can't everyone just read and decide for themselves what they feel will help them?
I could understand if someone was habitually mean and nasty and really far out there with ideas, but I personally have never noticed this. And there is the opportunitiy for someone to come along and disagree so another side is give.
Who "owns" Lymenet anyway? I guess I don't understand this power to ban.
Posted by bettyg (Member # 6147) on :
GOD BLESS YOU LOU BACHMAN FOR REINSTATING SARAH!
now we have another reason to be THANKFUL for THANKSGIVING DAY!
sarah, i sent you a PM and yours was the 1st email i read today! YIPPEE!!
Posted by heiwalove (Member # 6467) on :
hooray!!!!!
so happy you're back, sarah!!!
Posted by daise (Member # 13622) on :
Sarah,
I'm glad you're back. We need you.
You are an inspiration! You give and give and give. Thank you, Sarah.
You weren't even given any warning. That's sick. What was done to you, even for a little while, and what was done to all of us, is wrong.
But I'll tell you something. I can't forget the power trip that's going on here. Since any member can be banned at any time with no warning, I don't think there is much of a future for Lymenet.
Control, control, control.
I cannot accept what was done to you, Sarah, even when it was done to you for a little while--and to all of us. IT'S MEAN.
Am I next, for practicing free speech?
I have to approach this board from now on, from the point of view that this board is not in keeping with the spirit of the Constitution and my days here are numbered.
Daise Posted by artraveler (Member # 12764) on :
Hurray!!!!!!!!!!! I'm so glad to see you reinstated!!!
But I think I will be checking out other sites as well. With all of this drama constantly goingon, how can anyone get the help they need? Posted by djf2005 (Member # 11449) on :
I THINK THE QUESTION THAT MATTERS THE MOST STILL REMAINS UNANSWERED.
WHY WERE U BANNED SARAH?
WHY ARE THE MODS JUST BANNING PEOPLE AS THEY WISH W/O PRIOR WARNING OT NOTICE?
THIS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE IMHO
HUMBLY
derek
Posted by Lou B (Member # 64) on :
Hi LymeNet Users,
Sarah was NOT banned. Her ability to post was "temporarily" blocked while one of our Moderators investigated an incident.
I informed Sarah that we were working on it in an email to her last night @ 10.52PM and sent another email last night @ 11:51PM stating her posting ability had been re-enabled.
In my view this Topic and others talking about who got banned, who didn't get banned and demanding that we @ LymeNet explain, in detail, everything we do is inappropriate!
Some of you LymeNet Users are simply OUT-OF-CONTROL!!! Can't we simply work together without fighting?
Please, have a Happy Thanksgiving and peace to all of you,
[ 21. November 2007, 09:28 PM: Message edited by: Lou B ]
Posted by daise (Member # 13622) on :
Lou,
No, banning people in such a way as this is not the way to go--even temporarily. It is mean and it is wrong.
Daise
Posted by Robin123 (Member # 9197) on :
Lou, how this is all being handled is upsetting people, even to the point people are going to other boards or investigating them. It makes people feel very insecure, as in who's next to go without reasons given or understanding.
Maybe it would be a good idea not to block people here while you are investigating something. And to have a communication with the people involved and work out the issues with them. Apparently, Sarah didn't get the email messages about what was going on, and then all of us got upset.
If there is further need to post clear rules for board use, fine. Maybe to put it at the top of the posting sections so people can know what's expected of them.
Also, I would like to see Jimbob reinstated. He has been a longtime member, is very informative about the herbs, and deserves to be here to give and receive support.
Posted by Michelle M (Member # 7200) on :
Lou, thank you for posting.
However, what Sarah got, while she was -- as ALWAYS -- answering someone's post, was:
"Your ability to post has been revoked."
Now, that would lead a reasonable person to believe they have been banned.
While I realize this is your forum, the truth is that there soon will be no forum without longtime members like the ones who've been banned lately.
Cave is chief among those who have been exiled, and is far from forgotten.
The very existence of LymeNet depends on people like them.
Posted by AliG (Member # 9734) on :
Apparently the problem that Sarah had been having, in receiving the e-mails from Lymenet, must not have been resolved.
Sarah was given an explanation for the temporary block, she just must not have received it.
Daise,
I realize you're upset, everyone has been. You're entitled to your opinion and so am I.
I believe you're basing your opinion on what you've seen in one (or possibly a few?) month's time and your perspective may be different than mine.
It is my opinion that your comments to Lou are a bit out of line. LouB has been a kind-hearted, fair, caring, dedicated moderator. Jen has been too (only within her part-time ability).
There was a communication problem between the moderators & Sarah. Lou notified her what was going on, she just didn't get the e-mail. What was wrong with that? He was even nice enough to explain that to everyone, when it really had nothing to do with us.
I think there are many who've been here for a long time that would feel the same way, if they step back and look at the bigger picture of what has been occuring here.
We've had a little (OK big) crisis on the board and it is in the process of being resolved.
I really can't stand to see people relating to each other antagonistically. It's just hurtful.
Posted by AliG (Member # 9734) on :
Michelle-
Sarah was having problems before getting her e-mails from Lymenet. I remember her & Jennifer having a big hullabaloo about it on the board.
Lou said he sent her two e-mails & she was only blocked for an hour.
I think this has all been a big, blown out of proportion, misunderstanding again.
Isn't that possible? Or am I the only one who sees it this way?
Posted by Michelle M (Member # 7200) on :
My dear AliG,
I SO appreciate what a peacemaker you are. I really do. I really WISH I could say I saw it that way.
Instead, what I see are people leaving in droves.
What I see are a handful of people controlling this forum.
I still find the banning of Cave absolutely beyond belief and insupportable.
I am sorry, but I find moderators too quick to judgment and there is little doubt in my own mind which squeaky wheels are pushing their buttons -- probably incessantly. I am sure it is tiresome for them to deal with.
Posted by AliG (Member # 9734) on :
Michelle,
I do see some of the same things you see, but I want this all to go away!
I want the hurt feelings, anger, bitterness, sensitivity, negativity, combativeness and general unkindness to GO AWAY!!!!!
I want all the people I've grown to care so much about (INCLUDING CAVE!!!!) to come back. While there are still many supportive people here, I REALLY miss the many who are gone.
I'm trying to understand what happened here as best I can and I want to find a way to make it better.
I just don't know how to fix it.
I do know it's not going to get better unless people start finding it in their hearts to forgive each other and start trying to look for the good in each other instead of waiting to pounce on each other.
The moderators are a very important part of this support network and I think if they were cut a little slack early on, it wouldn't have gotten to this point.
I suspect that "not seeing the forest for the trees" may have led to issues between Jennifer & Cave and things escalated out of control. This is purely my speculation through my own observations.
If that IS the case, I'm hoping that Lou may be able to intervene and smooth things over. I feel that Cave was a very, very important resource here, at least she was to me.
I don't see that happening if things don't cool off at all and people remain ready to jump down each other's throats.
I am trying my hardest to make peace among us because I really don't feel that I can take much more upset and I very selfishly want ALL my resources for support back!
I just don't know what else to do. Posted by djf2005 (Member # 11449) on :
Lou-
be forewarned.
your attitude of entitlement to some sort of respect that all lyme netters owe you or anyone else for that matter is ludicrious.
what is even more ridiculous, is that you, the mod, doesnt need to provide the gen pop with an explanation as to why you just cut people off?
it is unacceptable, and, very discouraging to know this is how people are dealt with and or viewed on this site.
are you now going to ban me for voicing my opinion?
i mean seriously, where do we draw the line?
if it simply is a lack of staff or a lack of "mods" or the "heavenly beings" then maybe consider getting additional help so that issues can be resolved in a more rational manner.
i am sure there are many lymies who would love a chance to help this site.
at least i know there used to be....
humbly,
derek
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
We all have to remember that we are guests on this board....every one of us.
If we get out of line, we can be banned. It's always been that way.
Posted by Lou B (Member # 64) on :
Michelle,
I totally agree with you. We understand that the USERS make the LymeNet Flash a valuable resource to the Lyme community. They, our USERS, provide the information, help and support.
This situation was simply caused by timing ... we communicate as fast as we can ... I rapidly sent the emails to Sarah ... she did receive them (there is no problem there) ... she, from what I can determine, did NOT read the emails until this morning.
Come on, please, cut us a little slack ... please, PLEASE don't blow this out of proportion ... PLEASE???
Thank you,
Posted by djf2005 (Member # 11449) on :
lymetoo-
GUESTS?
is this a hotel? a restaurant? we are not customers, and this is not a for profit orginization.
we are people in need, people who deserve respect and information we can rely on.
i for one am NOT a guest here. i am a contributor, helper, and a gatherer of information, same as every other member is.
the reason people are so fired up, and i am so concerned, is concerning the abuse of banning people w/ little or no notice.
this site holds too many people's lives together for them to wake up one day and not be able to access it.
literally, there are a lot of lymies WHO LIVE on lyme net.
you cannot just cut off one's life source like that. its wrong, ego centric, and uncalled for.
did we not all see how sarah felt?
she was a mess over it. all she does is help people. yes, her opinions and views are sometimes contrary to others, but ISNT THAT THE POINT OF LYMENET???
end of story.
humbly
derek
Posted by djf2005 (Member # 11449) on :
PS-
lou you can have all the slack u need man.
you are human, same am me and the rest of the planet.
we make mistakes.
just dont jeoporadize this thing.
lymenet has a lot of potential. it needs to remain that way.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
quote:Originally posted by djf2005: lymetoo-
GUESTS?
Yep!
Posted by djf2005 (Member # 11449) on :
i disagree.
how long will we argue for the sake of arguing?
well....
lets find out....
humbly, derel
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
Not long!! I'm not an arguer. Is there such a word?? Posted by djf2005 (Member # 11449) on :
YOU are not an arguer?
hahahaha
well if there is such a word, YOU are IT.
but, so AM I.
Posted by cjnelson (Member # 12928) on :
Once again I hope to encourage some people, who know more about the ins and outs of this board than i do to !!!!please, please, please!!!!! \
GET OUT OF THE PROBELEM AND HELP FIND A SOLUTION!
If we keep doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results, well...
that is the definition of INSANITY!
Over the past few weeks, we have played THIS scenario out several times over several different people.
The moderators ahve a right to ban if they see a reason to, we do NOT have control over that. We simply do not. Unless this board becomes a place where you have to PAY to be on it and POST then the ones who "own" it CAN kick you out!
It doesnt matter if we agree or not!!! If this place is as important to you as it is to me, find a sensible solution to the problem.
I for one dont fully UNDERSTAND the problem behind it therefore can only offer what limited insight I may have which also could be totally off.
So, my question is this....
Moderators,
What is the repetitive issue that seems to be creating such a rub and getting individuals temporary or permanantly blocked from access to this sight?
Is it "one" general thing that continues to occur? If so what is it?
Is it based on concern? Liability? What is the basis behind it from your stand point?
With this, maybe collectively we can come up with SOLUTIONS for the future!!!
And please, please, please, EVERYONE, if any moderator responds to this we do have to remember this is their board!!!! They can set the rules, period. If we dont like it we can go somewhere else!!!!
So in a sense, yes, we are Guests that contribute, support, etc, but we are still guests!!!
Posted by CaliforniaLyme (Member # 7136) on :
I had logged off without having gotten anything and didn't get anything until this morning!!! I am sure Lou sent them last night as he said but I didn't get them then- I got them this morning.
I am just glad to be here.
Posted by AliG (Member # 9734) on :
and we're so glad to have you here!!!! Posted by bejoy (Member # 11129) on :
If you've ever been in management, you know that one of the tough things about it is keeping confidentiality, while carrying out difficult responsibilities.
The moderators could give us blow by blow descriptions of why they make decisions for and about other people, but that would be a violation of privacy.
I'm glad they have more respect for contributors than to gossip about other people's business.
So, what do you say we get back to lymenet business?
What if each person reading this post goes back right now and answers a question for a searching newbie, in the most thoughtful, educated, scientific, creative, supportive, and caring way possible.
That's what lymenet is really all about, isn't it?
Posted by TerryK (Member # 8552) on :
I agree with lymetoo. We are guests. We need to act accordingly. Show a little respect for each other and to the moderators.
Good points bejoy. Let's get back to business.
Glad you are back Sarah.
Thanks moderators for putting up with all this hassle.
Terry
Posted by Lou B (Member # 64) on :
Derek (djf2005) and all the LymeNet users,
I'm addressing this to Derek because he brought up these points but my response is also addressed to all the LymeNet users.
Derek, you said "Be forewarned" What? ... why the threat? Please ... lighten up!
Derek, you said "What is even more ridiculous, is that you, the mod, doesnt need to provide the gen pop with an explanation as to why you just cut people off?" Well, let me explain, we ban a user for only one reason, that being violation of the LymeNet Flash Terms & Conditions (Rules) which were displayed to all users when they registered and they clicked on "Agree" but probably didn't read a single word. If you are interested, the LymeNet T&C's are clickable at the bottom of every LymeNet web page and are viewable at this link: http://www.lymenet.org/terms.shtml
Derek, you said "Lack of staff, mods", money ... Yes, all of the above and we are somewhat at fault for not coming to all of you and saying "we desperately need help" because as the user numbers have grown we always thought we could handle it and a good example why we can't handle it without additional help is this Topic thread ... there are too many of you and if you all come at us we can't possibly handle it ... I can barely keep up with this single Topic thread today ... the rest of the stuff on LymeNet? Who knows ... Yes ... we need additional moderators to help and we need your donations so we can keep paying the bills.
Oh, another thought ... the number of users on LymeNet has grown exponentially and now we have Lyme Enigma, Lyme News, Lyme World, LymeNet Europe and maybe a few others. What does that tell us? My thought ... Lyme and TBD's are a true epidemic!!! To me, that is very upsetting and I guess all of you being victims or family members of victims are upset too ... I know you can't kick the crap out of the tick that bit you but do you think there is any benefit in kicking the crap out of one another ... and beating the crap out of us guys who do our best to keep LymeNet running?
Guests ... I never thought of it that way but our small group of 7 does our best to keep this thing going ... we or our family members and now all of you (and I am glad to call many of you, especially some of you that have been here with me far too long "my friends") have been affected by these horrible diseases ... Lyme and all the other stuff really sucks!!!
In case some of you don't know why I hang in here (I know some of my long term friends here have seen this) trying to help. It's this simple, because info we found on LymeNet helped save my daughter's life so I owe my daughter's life and now because she survived, (there were times I didn't she would make it) my grandkids lives to LymeNet. You can read my daughter's story at: http://www.angelfire.com/nj/lorib/
Thanks for listening to (reading) my ramblings.
Now ... can we all please lighten up? Can you control yourselves ... please stop fighting.
How about a little lovin'?
Happy Thanksgiving everyone,
Posted by Soleilpie (Member # 8481) on :
Welcome back Sarah!
And thank you Lou for doing a thankless job! You're the voice of reason on here and I appreciate all you do for Lymenet!
Posted by djf2005 (Member # 11449) on :
lou-
i accept your apology.
i also apologize publicly if i crossed any lines.
it seems clear you all need help. it also seems clear these issues would not continue to arise if you had more help.
i for one (although now i am sure i am not your #1 choice nor do i care) would gladly help in any way i can.
here's to lymenet getting on the road to recovery as well as everyone here.
happy thanksgiving everyone
cheers
humbly,
derek
ps- asking you to be forewarned was not a threat at all, it was simply some good advice. if this continues, there will be little left of lymenet, and the people that actually know something about how to help people such as cave or sarah will be long gone. i know its hard to heed some advice, i struggle with this as well. anyway, this has played out way too long. i hope it gets better
pps- i am formally offering my services in any fashion i am able to lighten the current load on the mods. if you are serious about resolving this issue, pm me and i will be glad to be of some assistance. i am not yet able to work so now is the time. thanks lou.
Posted by Robin123 (Member # 9197) on :
Ok, Lou, I looked at all the links you provided here. I hope that everyone reads the rules of Lymenet so they don't get broken and put us through all this hassle. It sounds like you and your family have been through a lot, like all of us. It looks like you and your Lymenet group do a lot of work here.
So all I am asking from you is that you find a less hurtful way to investigate any problems on the board. It's extremely upsetting for people to go through blocks and bannings, especially in this most recent example where someone did not even get the communication you sent.
I would really encourage you to do the moderation work here without having to cut people off. To let them know what the problem is so it can be corrected and we can keep our wonderful folks on the board.
Thank you for your attention, and ok, everyone, have a great thanksgiving and let's give thanks to each other for being here to help.
Posted by merrygirl (Member # 12041) on :
Lou and others- Thank you or all that you do
I think that the Lyme group is a fiesty bunch! We have to be or we would not be able to survive!
We just need to be fiesty with the right people (IDSA, CDC MD"S etc) not each other.
I also think that a lot of us (myself included) feel that this board is much more than some website. It is family, friends and and a sense of hope and I have only been here for 6 months! So I think we become very protective here.
I think it should be mandatory that ater you read a "questionable" post you should have to wait at least 20 minutes before you post a Reply!!!
No posting near the full moon too!! Hahaha
Think before we "speak" This includes me, so I am removing a post I made "moderators what the heck is going on??? because it no longer needs to exist!
I am really glad Sarah is not banned and that hopefully we can move on!
I have a lot of free time so I am happy to help if needed.
everyone have a happy and safe thanksgiving!!
Melissa Posted by kbholley (Member # 12938) on :
I don't want ya'll to think that I am stepping on anyones toes, but I found Lymenet on the google search engine in Aug. of this year. I sit back and read and research this time consuming disease that we are all going through, and there are some nights when I can't sleep, I know that I can go online and get in touch with someone who is dealing with the same things that I am going through. If it weren't for this website there are nights when I think I would loose my mind.
I would like to thank Lou B. for starting this and seeing it through. To some of us who are lost, you are a guiding light helping us find a way to face it, deal with it and fight what brought us all to your website and for that I Thank You.
Posted by bettyg (Member # 6147) on :
quote:Originally posted by djf2005: lou- i accept your apology. i also apologize publicly if i crossed any lines.
it seems clear you all need help. it also seems clear these issues would not continue to arise if you had more help.
i for one (although now i am sure i am not your #1 choice nor do i care ) would gladly help in any way i can.
here's to lymenet getting on the road to recovery as well as everyone here.
pps- i am formally offering my services in any fashion i am able to lighten the current load on the mods. if you are serious about resolving this issue, pm me and i will be glad to be of some assistance. i am not yet able to work so now is the time. thanks lou.
derek, i bolded a comment you made above. this is an example of what STARTS FIGHTS again after we are starting to get things settled down since Lou B was kind enough to come here addressing recent problems, bannings, going on.
read that sentence again without the words i bolded; what a difference it would read and MEAN from the heart! don't you agree.
derek, you owe lou an apology. end of subject.
robin, good point! i was going to address this as well:
all are INNOCENT until found guilty with enough proof to ban the member! don't investimate AFTER you ban someone but BEFORE any hasty actions are taken.
yes, i've hated so much coming here daily to this circus RIOT ACT where the GOLDEN RULE, DO UNTO OTHERS AS THEY DO UNTO YOU, was meaning: you throw the 1st punch and i'll reciprocate!
i'm willing to help in any way with a group of others to get this board to NO. 1 again; it's way down there and getting almost to chuckie's science fi that i've read about here for along time.
i can understand sarah not getting emails! ********************************************
sarah, i've tried sending twice to YOUR HOME ADDRESS; your HOME EMAIL IS FULL TOO; please clean house there and your PM box! thanks my calif. friend! i still want to send you something after you sent me about being reinstated!
today is THANKSGIVING, let us all start with a NEW SLATE....empty; not holding grudges for past events; deal with today on, and let's MOVE FORWARD, UPWARD, "I THINK I CAN; I THINK I CAN" attitude .
let's HELP ONE ANOTHER; not hurt and destroy one another!
let's fight IDSA, CDC, HEALTH INSURANCE COMPANIES DENYING US PAYMENTS, to get our 2 lyme bills SIGNED IN CONGRESS IN 2007!
let's use the energy we all wasted on recent events on contacting our DC house reps/senators getting them to CO-CHAIR our 2 lyme bills.
let's write more followup letters to all the crap recently in the papers from OUR CHRONIC LYME PERSPECTIVES and what was incorrect in their articles.
fund lymenet during this ANNUAL FUNDRAISING TIME. ************************************************
LOU B, i still would like to know how the money is being used this year on what equpment, etc. INQUIRING MINDS LIKE TO KNOW; yes, I'm NOSEY! i said it; you didn't !
now, how can i help you? i hope you noticed my sincere SMILE! Posted by Soleilpie (Member # 8481) on :
HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!
I for one am THANKFUL that LymeNet exits! I can't tell you how much more secure I feel knowing that there's a place for me to turn to if I or my family needs help.
Christina
Posted by djf2005 (Member # 11449) on :
betty-
i already aplologized once.
if one more apology is going to make you feel better then, then here it goes.
lou, i am sorry if i crossed any lines, plese forgive me?
ok....there we were
also, maybe if you didnt put my words into bold text they woulnt be misconstrued?
just another thought?
humbly,
derek
Posted by ByronSBell 2007 (Member # 11496) on :
This stuff is crazy
Posted by CaliforniaLyme (Member # 7136) on :
PEACE LOVE HARMONY!(*!(_(!_! !*_)!*)!*)!*)!*)!*!)*!)!! HAPPY THANKSGIVING ALL!_!((!_
(yup, my home box has been bombed by too much mail, cruzio my local provider has a LIMIT and I reached it yesterday morning but I can't bear to delete emails! i am a cyber pack rat!!!)
I appreciate all comments on this thread including yours Derek- I didn't know my blocking was temporary when it happened but I am sure glad it was-
Turkey is in the oven!!! Pumpkin pie is DONE! We are having 3 pies-
Candied yams are done. Stuffing is done. Turkey is roasting. Gravy not begun!!! We are having COLE SLAW as our greens because fresh cole slaw is THE BEST*)! and the potatoes we'll deal with right before we eat!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My husband helped chop chop CHOP this am bright & early, he did the onions and apples and celery-it was nice, all of us were in the kitchen, I had the baby, who every much wanted to help, in charge of Guarding the Cranberries from the Cats (that was her job, poor kid, she is going to grow up convinced cats madly lust after cranberries!!)(She sat on a stool with the cranberries in her lap convinced she was invaluable in helping- it was adorable*)!*)!!
We are having everything done ahead of time so we can skip out with the girls (Evan Kelly, 10, in full remission for 6+ years from Lyme & babs and Isadora Clementine, almost 3 now) and go see that Enchantment movie that just came out*)! And then come home and make the gravy and potatoes and eat!!!
It is a good day. I am glad we are all here.
Love to everyone, Lou & Michelle & Jenifer & BettyG especially!!! And howdy to people like Derek who I don't really know but I like your honesty very much- And Happy Thanksgving to alL*)!!!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING*)!*)!!************************* Sincerely, Sarah
Posted by sizzled (Member # 1357) on :
*I love you Sarah!
Now, that said....I would delete this thread since it is too distressing to think that Sarah would b banned. Now that this is behind us.....can we get on being nice to each other????
Wishing all a very, very Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
Enjoy those grandkids, enjoy those get-togethers....
I miss my sis terribly. She died way too young so please....enjoy your loved ones!
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
I give credit to TerryK for the term "Guests" here. I believe she wrote a very good explanation of that back when Cave was banned.
I went looking for that explanation and it was not to be found.
Just giving credit where credit is due!!
Tracy is right about one thing on this board....
"chronic overreaction" seems to be a theme here sometimes!!!!
Betty...chill a bit!
Thanks, Lou!! I've really enjoyed knowing you over the years and thank you from the bottom of my heart for "saving my life" as well.
Without Lymenet I would have died of despair while trying to make it through treatment!
The support here has been wonderful. Please, everyone, focus on the POSITIVE. It's all around you....every day. You have to train yourself to LOOK FOR IT.
Lymenet friends!
Happy Thanksgiving! Posted by heiwalove (Member # 6467) on :
happy thanksgiving everyone.
i love you guys.
Posted by Truthfinder (Member # 8512) on :
Sarah, I am very sorry this happened to you - even temporarily. Truly, I am so happy that things got straightened out so that you could enjoy Thanksgiving today!
Sadly, there are 3 other members who were not so lucky. According to Lou B, apparently they violated LymeNet rules, but they don't know what they did and neither do we.
Lou B - would it be that much trouble to issue folks a brief warning first, so they have an opportunity to correct the problem?
And another problem I see happening with Newbies is that they come to LymeNet and see too many members being cynical or treating one another inappropriately..... and they think it's okay to behave the same way!!!
So, what are we teaching new people when we fail to be courteous to one another?
Forums on the Internet where people bash each other are a dime a dozen. That's the easy way to voice your opinion. It's a little harder to be civil to one another, but I think LymeNet - and its members and administrative staff - are worth it.
Posted by AliG (Member # 9734) on :
quote:Originally posted by tracybillings: chronic overreaction
Posted by Michelle M (Member # 7200) on :
As the originator of this thread, I am happy to note that the Force has returned (Lou, that's YOU). Thanks.
Cave, that's also YOU.
Sarah, that's YOU, too, however briefly you may have been gone.
Maybe after all these travails we'll move forward in peace.
Further, as the originator of this thread, I wouldn't be a bit unhappy to see it banished to the hinterlands of "Off Topic" or even "Outta Here."
Lou, thanks for your help.
Jenifer, thanks for your help, even if we overwhelmed you from time to time.
Everyone else, thanks for sticking around and paying it forward, no matter your point of view. That's what we're here for.
Michelle
Posted by AliG (Member # 9734) on :
Hi Michelle,
Sorry that was actually an accident. I didn't mean to bring up the thread again. tracybillings just posted an antagonistic remark on one of my threads & I was trying to determine whether it was a pattern before the remaining 9 of tb's 159 posts got deleted.
I REALLY REALLY did not want this to get started again.
so sorry. Ali
[ 07. December 2007, 08:16 AM: Message edited by: AliG ]
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