Melanie Reber
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Kurt Hilding Billing, 47, New York
Swim instructor Kurt Billing dies at 47 By Brendan O'Reilly
Kurt Hilding Billing, a fixture in Southampton who gave swimming lessons at Big Fresh Pond, Wyandanch Beach and in backyard pools to hundreds--perhaps thousands--of local children over the years, took his own life on February 3 at his home in North Sea. He was 47.
Mr. Billing suffered from Lyme disease for the past 10 years, the symptoms of which include depression and confusion. He had been symptom free for years, but late last fall he had a relapse, his family said.
Born on January 24, 1962, Mr. Billing was known by many as ``Nature,'' a nickname picked up during his high school years that followed him throughout life. He graduated from Southampton High School in 1980 and went on to earn a business degree from the University of Richmond in Virginia.
After college, Mr. Billing spent a couple years traveling the country and did a stint as a computer salesman in Washington. When he returned home to Southampton in 1986, he took over the family swimming instruction business from his sister, Donna Billing, who had taken it over from their mother, Florence, who started it more than 40 years ago. Florence Binning passed the business to her children so she could open four women's clothing stores--Billing's Lingerie Shop, Billing's Country Shop, Billing's Bridal Salon and Lady Billing, all in Southampton Village--which Mr. Billing helped manage.
Mr. Billing learned to swim while tagging along at his mother's swimming classes. He could swim all the way across Big Fresh Pond when he was just 6 years old, his sister, Diane McGann, recalled on Monday.
``You could tell it was a passion, and he was just good at it,'' Ms. McGann said. ``He knew how to read a student, and he knew just how far to push to get results. ... It built up their self-esteem.''
Most of the swimming classes were held at the same Billing-family lake-front property on Big Fresh Pond where his mother had first given lessons.
``He was a strong believer in teaching at the lake,'' Ms. McGann said. She explained that he wanted new swimmers to learn to be comfortable swimming long distances in open water.
``He was more than a `swim instructor.''' Donna Billing's husband, Alex Oliva, said. ``He took it to the highest degree.''
Mr. Billing's catch phrase was ``Keep up the good work,'' and he didn't just say it to his students. Ms. Billing said he would say that to her every time he got off the telephone with her.
Their brother had a ``big kid'' personality, which he got from their late father, Hilding ``Hank'' Kurt Billing, the sisters said.
``He had this huge enthusiasm and excitement for life,'' Ms. Billing said of her brother. She said every outing with Mr. Billing, whether it be hiking or ice skating, was a grand event. ``He just made it like the biggest adventure in the world,'' she said.
Mr. Billing had a passion for travel. He has been to all 50 states, South Africa, Australia, Nepal and the Scandinavian countries, including Sweden, where he visited distant relatives. He was also an avid photographer and documented his journeys. ``He has a huge collection of slides,'' Ms. Billing said.
Mr. Billing was also a preservationist. He got his start at 24 years old, when he took out a $25,000 personal loan to help preserve an $85,000 1-acre parcel on Big Fresh Pond that he brought to the attention of the Peconic Land Trust.
``That was really inspiring for a young person to devote that kind of money,'' Peconic Land Trust President John v.H. Halsey said Monday.
Mr. Billing became a member of the Peconic Land Trust's stewardship committee and fought to preserve Tuckahoe Woods in North Sea.
``He knew that part of North Sea like the back of his hand,'' Mr. Halsey said. ``He spent a lot of time as a boy running through those woods.''
On top of swimming lessons and his traveling, Mr. Billing was a caddy at National Golf Links of America in Southampton, a motocross rider and a volunteer forest-fire fighter.
According to his family, Mr. Billing bought a home in Oregon two years ago, with plans to start a business as a trail guide when he wasn't in Southampton giving swimming lessons. Many of Mr. Billing's plans had been put on hold though, so he could care for his mother, who had a stroke in January 2007.
Mr. Billing is survived by his four sisters, Donna Billing and husband Alex Oliva of Delray Beach, Florida; Diane McGann and husband Anthony McGann of Port Washington; Lin White and husband William White of Southampton; and Lorri Billing and husband Joseph Walker of Southampton. He is also survived by his mother, Florence, and his nieces and nephews, Joseph, Morgan, Ashley, Brittan, Sandro, Elizabeth and Katherine.
A wake was held on Friday, February 6, at Brockett Funeral Home in Southampton. A funeral service was held the next day at Southampton United Methodist Church, followed by interment at Southampton Cemetery.
Letters of condolence may be sent to Kurt Billing Remembered, 101 Big Fresh Pond Road, Southampton, New York 11968. A memorial website is located at kurtbilling.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family said it would appreciate donations in Mr. Billing's memory to Peconic Land Trust, 296 Hampton Road, P.O. Box 1776, Southampton, New York 11969, peconiclandtrust.org, or to Lyme disease research. Last Updated Feb 9, 09 6:59 PM
Melanie Reber
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Thayer Libby Cole, 58, Maryland
Born in Portland, ME on Jun. 14, 1950 Departed on Mar. 11, 2009 and resided in Elkton, MD.
Thayer Libby Cole, of Elkton, MD, died Wednesday, March 11, 2009 in the Christiana Hospital, Newark, DE.
Born in Portland, ME, on June 14, 1950, she was the daughter of the late Ralph G. Libby, II and the late Vivian (Blauvelt) Libby.
She was a Disc Jockey. She started her career at WAMD in Aberdeen, MD then moved to WCEM in Cambridge, MD. From there she worked at WPOC in Baltimore, MD, returned to WAMD, then on to WXCY in Havre de Grace, MD where she retired.
Libby was a member of the National Sky Patrol, a competitive down hill snow skier and was a water skier. She was the first female Station Master for Amtrak. She loved people and remote broadcasting.
Survivors include her loving husband: Hubert M. Cole of Elkton, MD; stepson, Col. William E. Cole, his wife, Midge and their children, Elizabeth, William Jr., Joshua and Michelle, all of Burke, VA; and also by her brother Ralph G. Libby, III and his wife Brenda of Lyman, ME.
Visitation for family and friends will be held at Crouch Funeral Home, 127 south Main Street, North East, MD, on Saturday, March 14, 2009 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM and again Sunday, at 1:00 om before the funeral service.
Funeral service will be held Sunday, March 15, 2009 at 2:00 PM at the funeral home.
Rev. Karen Bunnell will officiate. Interment will be in Limington Cemetery, Limington, ME.
(see photo at link below) Sue Baiata, shown dancing with her brother, John, at his 2001 wedding, developed advanced Lyme disease in the years after being bitten by a tick. One of the side effects she experienced was hyperacusis, a sensitivity to sound so severe that she tried to find a doctor willing to surgically deafen her.
Courtesy of the Baiata family
The phone had not even finished its first ring before my wife, Anna, snatched it from its cradle. Concern was etched in her face as she handed me the receiver: ``It's the police. It's about Sue.''
My stomach dropped. My older sister had disappeared the day before and my family feared for her safety. ``I'm sorry to have to tell you this,'' the police lieutenant said in an even voice, ``but we found your sister dead this afternoon. We have reason to believe it was a suicide. We're here with your mother now.''
I fought the urge to scream as my mind went in a million directions. ``Do not leave my mother by herself,'' I urged the lieutenant over the phone. ``I'll be there in a little more than an hour.''
I lurched outside and clung tightly to the deck railing, while everything else seemed to spin violently around me. Anna grabbed me with both hands. ``What happened?!''
``She really did it this time,`` I said. ``She killed herself.''
In the decade or so before Sue took her own life at age 46 on August 21, 2005, my sister Dawn, my mother and I had become all too familiar with advanced Lyme disease, which had slowly, inexorably diminished Sue's life.
Sometime in the mid 1990s, my sister contracted Lyme disease, likely through being bitten by a deer tick or black-legged tick. The bacterium that had introduced itself to Sue's bloodstream went undetected, and then was misdiagnosed for the better part of two years.
Identified early, a short course of oral antibiotics will cure the majority of cases of Lyme disease -- more than 27,000 cases were reported in the U.S. in 2007 -- and wipe out the typical symptoms of headaches, fatigue and a circular rash near the area of the bite. But left untreated, the disease can affect the heart and nervous system, causing joint pain. Sue faced a parade of symptoms including migraines, severe pain in her neck and major joints and staggering exhaustion.
Each one narrowed the prism through which she lived her life. Sue had to leave her job as a facilities manager to go on disability, and lived with my mother in the Long Island home where we were raised. On her good days, she would spend hours in the gardens she had lovingly cultivated in the expanse of the backyard. More than likely it was there too where the tick which bore the disease that would seal her fate attached itself to her.
On her bad days, she would stay in bed with the shades drawn, cuddled with the dog she loved unconditionally, her beloved Chihuahua, Katie. She would emerge only briefly to have some tea and a bite to eat, and a few words with our mom.
Still, she had accepted what her life had become. On those good days she could still fill the room with laughter. She would mine the late-night comedians for material but never really needed to. Making people laugh came naturally to her.
Her life became more attuned to the seasons than ever. She knew instinctively how to grow just about anything. She kept a pair of pruners in her car in case she happened across something that would make its way into one of her many centerpieces. One fall while driving through a rural part of northern New Jersey, she forced me to pull over to the side of the road, disappearing into a thicket of brush and trees. She emerged moments later holding a fistful of exotic-looking flowers over her head, grinning ear to ear like she'd just been handed an Oscar. One Christmas season, in a burst of energy, she decorated the entire house while my mom was at work. The memory of walking through the front door that day still lights up my mother's face.
The agony of sound
Despite what Lyme disease had already taken, it was not done with her. A crueler, more insidious phase awaited. She began to develop an aversion to noises that had never bothered her before. Everyday sounds like the closing of a door or the cry of a child would cause her to cringe. A passing lawn mower or motorcycle would send her running for her room. The disease's attack on her central nervous system had brought on hyperacusis, a severe sensitivity to sound. And it became progressively worse.
It was as if a volume dial, set on high, had broken off, and everything in her aural experience was overmodulated. Softer sounds were tolerable. Sharper sounds were not, and painfully so for her.
Hyperacusis, which can be brought on by trauma to the inner ear, is also thought to be a processing problem with the way the brain perceives sound, which seems much more likely in my sister's case.
Dr. Paul Auwaerter, clinical director of infectious diseases at John Hopkins University School of Medicine and a leading specialist on Lyme disease, describes hyperacusis as ``a bit like the old fashioned AM radios. When you turn the ``gain'' button up you get more stations, but you get a lot more static, too.''
One of the enduring frustrations for my sister, and for those of us who loved her, was the failure of her doctors to recognize what was wrong. She was misdiagnosed twice in the early stages of the disease -- once with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, the second time with Epstein-Barr virus. She was accused of exaggerating her symptoms to avoid work, or inventing them in order to get pain medication. By the time anyone thought to give her a definitive blood test for Lyme, the disease was on the march.
Patients treated in the early stages -- within about two to four weeks after the onset of symptoms -- usually make a complete recovery. Not everyone is so fortunate.
``It's hard to put a number on how common misdiagnoses are, but early detection can be difficult," says Auwaerter. "It takes the body some time to generate enough antibodies to show up in testing, and the symptoms are common to many other ailments. There's a general sense that if you have the infection longer, you'll have extended symptoms.''
For those who are diagnosed late and have persistent symptoms, some doctors will prescribe an extended antibiotic regimen. That is a controversial approach, however, as several studies have shown it not to be an effective strategy.
There is also considerable debate in the medical community and with advocacy groups over some of the symptoms of ``advanced'' or ``persistent'' Lyme disease, like Sue had, and how to treat them. One theory, based on research studies, suggests that people who suffer from post-Lyme disease symptoms ``may be genetically predisposed to develop an autoimmune response that contributes to their symptoms.''
'It's like they're screaming'
Sue was determined to deal with the progression of the disease -- and especially the hyperacusis -- on her own terms. She went on the Internet and did exhaustive research. She kept in contact with another sufferer of advanced Lyme who lived in New Jersey, comparing notes on their progressive symptoms. And she ping-ponged from specialist to specialist, desperate to find someone who could help, someone who believed her. She took to wearing ear-plugs, then sound-proof headphones. But it was akin to spitting in the ocean. It made no discernible difference.
``Sometimes,'' she told me, ``when people are talking to me, even if they're whispering ... it's like they're screaming.''
My mother found her one day in her room, unresponsive and foam coming from her mouth. A long suicide note was tucked in a dresser drawer. She'd taken a bunch of pain pills from two prescription medications, but would live. When I arrived at the hospital my mother was outside stealing a cigarette, crying and ashen. When Sue came to, she was enraged that my mother had intervened. In the days after, an uncomfortable dynamic followed: Dawn and I were naturally supportive of my mother, and yet entirely empathetic to my sister's situation. A common enemy soon emerged, however. Her doctors wanted her committed to the psychiatric ward.
We argued vehemently that she was not crazy. She was suffering from the advanced stages of a debilitating disease, and had left behind a reasoned, lucid note explaining her actions.
We eventually got her home and struck a wary truce: we would redouble our efforts to help her navigate the maze of health-care providers in search of some relief, and she would simply not give up. She was sent to a therapist, and placed on medication for depression -- something she had struggled with even before contracting Lyme disease.
In search of a quieter neighborhood without the noises that were agony for Sue, my mom reluctantly put the house up for sale -- the one that held so many memories for all of us, and Sue tore herself away from the gardens she loved. They moved, and then moved again, finally settling in a 55 and older community that they thought offered the quiet my sister so desperately sought. The first day the landscapers came by with their torturous weed-wackers, it became clear there would be no silent refuge.
Asking to be made deaf
Sue came to a drastic, but, given the circumstances, reasonable conclusion: she wanted to be surgically deafened. My sister -- the same one who turned me on to all manner of wonderful music, who liked nothing better than lying on the beach listening to the sounds of the waves and seagulls, for whom peals of laughter were a siren's song -- would rather go deaf than endure any more pain. Now all she had to do was find a doctor who would do it.
No doctor would. They either did not believe the extent of her pain, felt it was too drastic a measure, or cited the ``do no harm'' tenet of the Hippocratic oath.
The last time I saw my sister alive was on one of her good days, in the summer of 2005. I had driven out to Long Island on a Saturday, and we spent the day together. We took a drive, and she asked me what music I was listening to. She could barely stand listening to music anymore, but she still wanted to know what was out there. I played a few tracks for her at the softest volume possible, and she laid her head back and smiled. Later, we went for a swim and she cracked a few jokes about sharing a pool with a bunch of people 20 and 30 years her senior. Looking back, the day seems impossible. A mirage.
Later that week, I called to see if it was OK to come out that weekend with my family. Sue was godmother to my oldest, Alexa, but had yet to meet my son Luke, who at the time was 3 months old. She wanted desperately to see him -- and I to show him off -- but she was fearful of the noise a crying baby would make. She urged me to come, and offered to leave the house in order to avoid the noise. I put the visit off again -- a decision I regret to this day.
When my sister attempted suicide the second time, she was determined that there would be no intervention. Sue was up and dressed early that day in August, and told my mom she was going to the mall. She called later that day to say she had met a friend and would be home late, not to worry. Instead, she checked herself into a motel along a busy stretch of New York highway, affixed a bunch of morphine patches to her body, and lay down to die in an empty motel room. There was no note. I think, in Sue's mind, her actions no longer required an explanation.
In the days following her death, my sister Dawn and I did our best to simultaneously deal with our grief and to support my mother, whose own grief had turned her near catatonic. The thought of never seeing Sue again, of never touching her or hearing the sound of her voice, was overwhelming. What was most painful for me was the knowledge that she would not be around to see my children grow. She'd never again get to spoil her goddaughter. And she had never met my son, Luke.
The day of her funeral, the visitation room was closed to all but immediate family just before her body was to be moved to the church. I walked in with Luke in my arms, and closed the door behind me. I placed his tiny hands in mine, and pressed them against my sister's casket. ``Sue, this is my beautiful boy, Luke,'' I whispered.
``Luke, meet your wonderful Aunt Sue.''
I have a favorite picture I keep on my dresser of Sue with her arms wrapped around me on my wedding day. Her face is lit with undiluted joy. Joy for me. Joy for the moment. There are times still when my longing to have her back hurts as deeply as the day she left us. But mostly when I think of her now, I think of all the times, and all of the little ways she expressed that same unbridled passion for life.
My sister fought valiantly against a disease that had diminished the quality of that life to a level that was no longer acceptable to her. It never once diminished her spirit. Through it all, all she really wanted was relief to her pain, and for someone to believe her story.
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Melanie Reber
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Unknown male, 62, New York
Man Dies of Brain Inflammation Caused by Deer Tick Virus 05.13.09, 05:00 PM EDT Scientists believe the case could be the first of its kind
WEDNESDAY, May 13 (HealthDay News) -- In what scientists say might be the first case of its kind, a new report details the story of a 62-year-old man in New York state who died last year of meningoencephalitis, apparently after being bitten by a deer tick infected with deer tick virus.
This appears to be the first reported human illness from the virus, although the organism was isolated in the brain of a person in Ontario, Canada. In this instance, there was no description of illness associated with that infection, said Norma P. Tavakoli, lead author of the paper appearing in the May 14 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
"Deer tick virus encephalitis [inflammation of the brain] is rare, but diagnostic testing is not routinely performed, so there could be cases out there we're actually missing," said Tavakoli, who is a research scientist with the Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health in Albany. "Certainly, during early spring to fall in areas where infected ticks have been reported, testing should be done."
"It is quite a rare virus," said Dr. Geoffrey Weinberg, a professor of pediatrics in the division of pediatric infectious diseases at the University of Rochester Medical Center. "I would advise people not to be overly concerned. Ticks are less commonly infected with this than with Lyme disease and, even in Lyme, Conn., a minority of ticks are infected with Lyme disease. Also, the odds are 300-to-one that someone infected with the virus will develop encephalitis. The vast majority have no symptoms at all."
For the average outdoorsman, precautions already recommended to avoid contracting Lyme disease -- also transmitted via deer ticks -- should decrease the odds of getting the deer tick virus as well, according to the study.
"Whether or not this will become a real problem, I don't think anybody knows. Obviously, there is no treatment for the virus so, really, prevention is the only thing you can do," said Dr. Peter Welch, an infectious disease specialist with Northern Westchester Hospital in Mt. Kisco, N.Y. "We should always be cautious to do our best to not be bitten by ticks. Check for ticks when you come out of the woods or anywhere there are ticks. Wear insect repellant which contains DEET."
Wearing light-colored clothing, removing any ticks as soon as they are found and keeping pets free of ticks can also reduce the risk, Tavakoli added.
Deer tick virus is closely related to Powassan virus, which can also cause encephalitis and is also transmitted by way of the deer tick, according to background information in the study. Both are flaviviruses, a group that includes West Nile virus, St. Louis encephalitis virus, dengue and yellow fever viruses, all of which are transmitted by mosquitoes.
Infection with one of these viruses sometimes causes severe illness, some combination of milder symptoms, or no illness at all. Deer ticks also transmit Lyme disease, which is now widespread in the United States.
In the New York case, a 62-year-old man from Putnam County, N.Y., arrived at a local hospital in spring of 2008 complaining of fatigue, fever, rash and muscle weakness.
Doctors first suspected West Nile virus, but analysis of tissue samples eventually came up positive for deer tick virus only.
The patient spent a good deal of time outdoors, owned horses and lived in a county with many reports of Lyme disease, indicating a large tick population. Although the man had not reported any tick bites, the time of the year was right for such an event, and many deer ticks are so small as to remain undetected.
Unfortunately, the man's condition continued to deteriorate, life support was withdrawn, and the man, who also had leukemia and therefore possibly a weakened immune system, died 17 days after he fell ill.
In general, Welch said, encephalitis cases of any sort are few, and labs are not usually able to identify the source, unless it is the herpes simplex virus.
"Since no one has been testing, we really don't know the incidence of deer tick virus, but it can't be very high, because we don't have many cases of encephalitis," he said. "What happens in the future will depend on how many ticks get infected, how easy it is to transmit to people and what percent of people infected get severe disease. It could be that people with normal immune systems are relatively resistant."
At 28 years old, Adan 'Juancho' Quezada-Lopez was strong and healthy and looking forward to celebrating his daughter's first birthday on July 8 with his wife, Autumn Lee Quezada-Grant. But instead of it being a happy time for the couple, Autumn found herself having to say goodbye to her husband who died on July 9 from Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
A landscaper with the University of Mississippi, Adan started to run a 103 degree fever on June 29. The next day he went to the doctor who suspected Adan might have swine flu since Autumn had just recently returned from a trip to Mexico.
"By Wednesday (July 1), he couldn't eat and he started having pain in his legs and terrible headaches," Autumn Lee Quezada-Grant said. "We went back to the doctor on Thursday."
Tests showed Adan's platelet count was very low. He was given more antibiotics and anti-viral medications.
"Nothing was working," Autumn said.
Autumn took her husband to the emergency room at Baptist Memorial Hospital-North Mississippi in Oxford on Saturday. A battery of tests were performed, but Adan's illness was still a mystery.
By Sunday, Adan was in the intensive care unit. On Tuesday, his body was covered in a rash and Autumn alerted the attending physician.
"Once the doctor saw the rash, he said, 'Rocky Mountain spotted fever'," Autumn said.
After receiving the usual treatment for Rocky Mountain spotted fever, some of Adan's symptoms improved. He was able to tell Autumn that one day after work a week prior, he had several ticks on him. Two swollen tick bites were found on Adan's knee.
Adan died shortly after midnight. "He was so young and strong," Autumn said.
Occurrences of Rocky Mountain spotted fever are rare in Mississippi. So far this year, five cases have been reported in the state. There were five cases in all of 2008.
Three cases of lyme disease - another tick-borne disease - have been reported in Mississippi since March, according to the Mississippi Department of Health.
Rocky Mountain spotted fever is a seasonal disease and occurs throughout the United States during the months of April through September, according to Christopher Cox with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
"The highest incidence rates have been found in North Carolina and Oklahoma," Cox said. "Although this disease was first discovered and recognized in the Rocky Mountain area, relatively few cases are reported from that area today."
...
Mr. Adan "Juancho" Quezada-L�pez July 7, 1981 - July 9, 2009
Mr. Adan "Juancho" Quezada-L�pez, 28, a landscaper with the University of Mississippi, died Thursday, July 9, 2009 at Baptist Memorial Hospital North MS. Funeral services will be Tuesday, July 14, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. at Waller Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Douglass Sullivan-Gonz�lez officiating. Burial will be held at a later date in Villa Comaltitlan, Chiapas, Mexico. Visitation will be Monday, July 13, 2009 from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home.
Adan is survived by his wife, Autumn Lee Quezada-Grant of Oxford; a daughter, Natalia Xochitl Quezada-Grant and a step-daughter, Lila Dharma Saye both of Oxford; his parents, Jesus Quezada and Angela L�pez de Quezada of Comaltitlan, Chiapas, Mexico; four sisters, Gloria Quezada L�pez and Marlyne Quezada L�pez both of Tonal�, Chiapas, Mexico and Amanda Quezada L�pez and Monica Quezada L�pez of Comaltitlan, Chiapas, Mexico; two brothers, Fernando Quezada L�pez and Fabian Quezada L�pez both of Comaltitlan, Chiapas, Mexico and by a grandmother, Angela L�pez of Comaltitlan, Chiapas, Mexico.
Adan was an immigrant to Mississippi and married Autumn in March of 2007.
The family has asked that memorial contributions in Adan's memory be made to Mr. Adan "Juancho" Quezada-L�pez, c/o Autumn Lee Quezada-Grant, 315 Blair Cove, Oxford, MS 38655.
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Tick-Borne Disease Claims Buncombe Co. Man's Life
BUNCOMBE COUNTY, N.C. -- A Buncombe County, N.C. man who died in mid-May died from Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF).
Test results were confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Health officials made the request for tissue testing because it wasn't clear how the man died. At one point, flu had been considered as a possible cause of death.
RMSF is caused by a bacterial organism and is transmitted by the bite of an infected tick. The American dog tick is the main transmitter of this disease.
An average of 675 cases of RMSF have been reported annually in North Carolina in recent years, according to North Carolina health officials.
RMSF can usually be treated with antibiotics, but 3 to 5 percent of cases can be fatal.
The best prevention for RMSF is to avoid ticks and be aware of symptoms, which can include a sudden onset high fever, muscle pains and headache, followed by a rash that starts on the wrists, forearms and ankles. This kind of rash then spreads from the extremities in toward the trunk. But it's important to note the rash doesn't develop in every patient. Ten to 15 percent of all patients never develop a rash.
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Andrea Ortiz Peterson, 27, Washington
ANDREA ORTIZ PETERSON
Andrea Ortiz Peterson 1981-2009 "The light that burns twice as bright burns half as long." While she was healthy, her light burned long and strong!
Andrea Ortiz Peterson, 27, of Graham, WA, passed away from complications of Lyme Disease on September 1, 2009.
She was born December 31, 1981 in Renton, WA. She grew up in the Renton Federal Way area, graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School, where she was an award-winning golfer and played the violin. During her short life she also resided in Richmond Beach, VA and New Orleans, LA.
Andrea loved the sea, securing a job following her passion as a Merchant Marine Able Bodied Seaman, and sailed the waters of the world for Military Sealift Command. Her travels of the world included the Seychelles, where she contracted Lyme Disease.
She remained strong of will and optimistic until the end of her life, in spite of her overwhelming medical issues. Her love of the sea encompassed her life so much that she had purchased a sailboat and planned to live aboard.
Surviving Andrea are her parents, Sherry (Clark) and Dean Peterson, her sister Erin Moon, and many others who will miss her intelligence, love, warmth, and energy. Family and friends will celebrate Andrea's life promptly at 1300 Hours (1:00PM) on Monday, September 7, 2009, aboard the Virginia V, 860 Terry Ave. N., Lake Union, Seattle, WA.
Condolences may be left online for the family at www.funeralalternatives.org . Arrangements with Funeral Alternatives of Washington, (360)753-1065
Published in News Tribune (Tacoma) on September 6, 2009
CRESTLINE: Jamie Lee (Stewart) Wynne, 53, went home to be with her Lord & Savior Jesus Christ on November 19, 2009 at home, under Hospice care, with her husband and son at her bedside. Jamie battled Lyme Disease for the past 11 years.
Jamie was born February 25, 1956 in New Kensington, PA to Sandra L. Spencer, Crestline and Wayne Stewart, Lexington.
Jamie was blessed with a very caring, loving and compassionate spirit her entire life, always thinking of others and never having a bad word to say about anyone. On Sundays her mom, dad and grandma Alberta always got their phone call from Jamie checking on how everyone was, even though she was so ill herself.
Jamie grew up in Crestline and graduated in 1974 from Crestline High School. Along with her sisters, they all grew up going to Calvary United Church of Christ. Jamie loved cooking and collecting recipes. When she visited home in Ohio, she always made her famous corn beef, cabbage and potatoes for dinner, the following day we had her wonderful Reuben sandwiches. She enjoyed music, especially country western and Christian and enjoyed funny TV shows. One of her favorite singing groups as a teenager was "BREAD". Jamie was a lover of nature; beautiful trees, wildflowers and the changing of the fall leaves. Her mom would take pictures of the fall splendor and send them to her.
During Jamie's junior and senior years of high school, she worked at Crestline Memorial Hospital in Admitting. Following graduation she went on to L.P.N. school in Mansfield. Jamie was the winner of "Best Nurse Contest" of the Tampa Bay area. She was the subject of an article published in the Florida Nursing News, where Dr. J. Giglio with whom she was employed had this to say: "Jaime was a dedicated nurse and is always ready to assist in any way she can. She has a palliative effect on patients, instilling in them the confidence they required when faced with medical problems. Jamie is a very special nurse and is considered so by her peers. She is of impeccable character and has a soothing influence on those in her presence." Nursing was truly Jamie's calling and she missed it so after she became ill.
She was devoted to her cherished husband, Brian; son, Jason Michael and her family. She is survived by her maternal grandmother, Alberta Spencer, Crestline; her sisters, Debra and Terry Robinette, Pamona Park, FL and Kelly and Ken Schroeder, Lexington, her uncles, Randy and Susan Spencer, Crestline and Craig Spencer, Big Pine Key, FL. Jamie was aunt to; Tyson and Zien Robinette of FL, Terah, Lynnix & Lyric Robinette, FL, Riley Schroeder & friend Alyssa Henderson, Lexington, Ryan Schroeder & fianc� Nikki and Laynee Erin Schroeder, Crestline, cousins, Renee, Glen, Chelsea & Nathan Boyd, Crestline, Brian & Lauren Boyd, Ontario, Sharon, Glenn, Kaitlyn & Logan Rinehart, FL, Randy, Dylan & Allyson Spencer, Lexington, Ryan & Braylen Spencer, FL., Natalie, Michael, Gage & Taylor Rynard, PA, Reese Spencer, FL and her father and mother-in-law, Dave and Marie Wynne.
She was preceded in death by her Grandpa Herm Spencer, Aunt Barbara Spencer and nephew, Erin Schroeder.
We will celebrate her life, but with broken hearts. Jamie you will be in our hearts forever, we love you so very much. When you lose a child, a spouse, mother, father, brother, sister, or grandparent or grandchild, it seems your world has shattered and stopped. You have suffered the most profound loss that an individual can suffer. Only faith in our Lord will get us through this sad time.
At Jamie's request, she chose to be cremated and brought home to scatter her cremains. There will be a private get together for her family only on December 12, 2009 at sunset.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jaime's name to the United Church of Christ, 511 Heiser Court, Crestline, Ohio 44827. Jamie had also asked to have a tree planted in her memory. Memorial contributions may also be made for the tree to her mother, Sandra Spencer, 304 Reindl; Dr. Crestline, Ohio, 44827.
Arrangements are in care of the Mark A. Schneider Funeral Home, Crestline
Online condolences may be made to Jaime's family at www.masfh.com
An army soldier that died from a tick bite was laid to rest today in Covington County.
22-year old Sgt. E-5 Robert David Gordon II, of River Falls, Alabama, died Wednesday in Landstuhl, Germany, after succumbing to a virus he contracted after being bitten by a tick while serving in Afghanistan.
Over one hundred people lined Highway 84 West to pay final respects by waving signs and flags. Gordon was laid to rest at New Home Baptist Church.
The Honor Guard was made up soldiers from Fort Rucker.
Doctors determined Gordon contracted the rare Crymean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever virus, which has been recorded in Africa, Asia and the Middle East.
According to the World Health Organization's web site, the mortality rate for the CCHF virus is 30 percent.
Gordon may have been the first U.S. soldier to contract the virus in Afghanistan. Military personnel in Afghanistan are now checking daily for ticks.
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Melanie Reber
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Julia Gilbert, 21, Oklahoma
Edmond Police Find Julia Gilbert's Body in Wrecked Car Posted: Jan 10, 2010 2:01 PM MST Updated: Jan 12, 2010 3:51 PM MST
EDMOND, Oklahoma -- A missing OU student was found dead Sunday inside her wrecked silver Jetta.
The silver 2002 Volkswagen Jetta, belonging to Julia Gilbert, was found upside down in a creek bed near Waterloo and Morgan roads in Kingfisher County at about 3 p.m. Sunday. A passerby saw the car and notified Edmond police.
According to the police report, the 21-year-old went off the road for an unknown reason and her car overturned off a bridge. She was pinned inside the vehicle and died due to injuries sustained from the crash.
Police say it was lucky anyone saw the car at all because of where it landed in the ravine.
"The underside of the car is all you can see and it was the gray under side of the car and it just blended in with the area around it," said Edmond Police spokesperson Glynda Chu.
Edmond police, the Civil Air Patrol, and over 100 volunteers had been searching for Julia Gilbert since Friday.
She had last seen at about 3:30 a.m. Friday, leaving a friend's house in the 600 block of Belle Air Avenue in Edmond. Police had tracked her last cell phone call near MacArthur Boulevard and Covell Road around Deer Creek High School.
The investigation has been handed over to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
Once it was determined the car was Julia's and she was inside, the tragedy began to sink in for family and friends at scene.
"All of a sudden you realize what you're looking at and you hope it's not that and it is," said Cheryl Coy, who helped pass out missing person flyers for Julia Gilbert. "After a few minutes it sank in. It was actually comforting to know now the family knows."
Questions still remain over how Gilbert ended up near Deer Creek. Friends and family say she was headed toward her parent's house in north Edmond after she left her friend's house and the drive should have only taken 10 minutes. Instead, she ended up in Kingfisher County over 15 miles in the opposite direction.
Julia's family said she was on new pain medication to treat her Lyme disease and they fear it may have disoriented her on her drive home.
The State Medical Examiner's Officer said Julia died from a fractured neck. Toxicology results will take at least a month.
Julia Gilbert was a senior at OU. She was scheduled to graduate in May.
Melanie Reber
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Gabriele Magnotta, 60, Canada
GABRIELE MAGNOTTA Passed away suddenly at home, surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, December 30, 2009 in his 60th year.
Beloved husband of Rossana. Dear father to Tommaso, Joseph and Alessia and father-in-law to Sarah and Marco. Proud grandfather of Gabriella. Devoted son of Giuseppina and son-in-law of Tommaso and Maria Di Zio.
He was a great friend to so many and every day he touched the lives of all who were blessed by his presence. He will be held dear in the hearts of his sisters and brothers-in-law, many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.
Gabriele was born on April 9, 1949 in the small mountain town of Andretta, Italy. He emigrated to Canada when he was 11 years old. He attended York University, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree and played goalkeeper for the university soccer team.
He worked briefly as a high school teacher before finding his true calling in business. The greatest love of Gabriele's life was his devoted wife Rossana. Throughout their many achievements in business, family always came first. Most importantly, they truly cherished their 36 years together.
Gabriele was a prolific and passionate entrepreneur. He started a number of companies and eventually became CEO of Magnotta Winery, a business he co-founded and built from an idea into Ontario's third-largest winery in 20 short years. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved adventuring at home and abroad with his dogs.
He was a loving and generous man who cared deeply for the welfare of others. He fought a long and courageous battle with Lyme disease these past 7 years. He was very well respected in the community and will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
The family will receive friends at the Fratelli Vescio Funeral Home (8101 Weston Rd., south of Langstaff Rd., 905-850-3332), on Saturday, January 2 and Sunday, January 3, 2010 from 2-4 in the afternoon and 7-9 in the evening. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, January 4, 2010 at 11 a.m. at Saint Mary Immaculate Church (10295 Yonge St., Richmond Hill). Entombment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery (the Langstaff Rd. entrance off of Bayview St., south of Highway 7).
Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Lyme Disease Foundation. Published in the Toronto Star from January 1 to January 2, 2010
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Melanie Reber
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Rebecca Glen (Hernandez), 55, California
Rebecca Glenn (Hernandez) (1954-2009)
Beckie, the daughter of Joe and Terry Hernandez, grew up in northern California with her brother, Joseph. She was never short on independence as she was off on her own before her 18th birthday, working and going to school.
She enjoyed life and her friends to the fullest as she moved to her mother's home town of Santa Barbara where she graduated from UCSB with a degree in environmental biology.
After graduation, Beckie moved to San Diego to work at the Scripps Research Institute as a researcher in the molecular and cellular biology department. With her skills in making monoclonal antibodies, she was recruited to a young biotech company, Quidel, where she and Scott met. As with any new business, they worked endless hours but always found the time to play together as Beckie enjoyed running, skiing and playing coed softball.
Scott and Beckie were married in 1986 at home in La Jolla with a hundred of their best friends and family. For Beckie, it was not just a union of two people; she graciously helped parent Scott's older boys, Jaime and Russell. With the birth of Ashley in 1987 and Connor in 1990 it was a dynamic group as Beckie integrated everyone into a loving and caring family.
Beckie worked tirelessly with the kids at Evans School when she chaperoned Russell's 6th grade trip to Washington, DC, and then became Connor and Ashley's room mother. She started her own Brownie and Girl Scout troops from scratch and managed Ashley's softball team into a number of regional final games. In between Ashley and Connor's birth, Beckie took the time to start a new business, Conception Technologies, making innovative medical devices for use by reproductive and infertility physicians.
After a year she decided work was taking more time away from her family than she wanted; they were graced as an old friend, Mike Trinkle, came into the business and made it the success it is today. Beckie was thrilled that Russell has taken such pride in his work at Conception and is working hard to continue the family business.
While everyone in the family called Beckie "Super Mom" and sometimes the "Enforcer", she always had time for family and her friends. She would take us to hike the backside of Half Dome in Yosemite when she was 7 months pregnant, then taught us how to catch lizards with a grass noose using tall grasses found in the meadow.
Her spirituality and thrill for life really grew when we moved to Telluride, Colorado, in 2000. In the mountains, Beckie became an avid hiker travelling 8-10 miles two or three times a week to altitudes of 13,000 feet with her best friends. Her love for life will forever be reflected in her photography which she was exposed to by her father and later refined in her homemade darkroom.
After her diagnosis with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), Beckie brought a new sense of conscientiousness with our return to La Jolla.
She continued to participate in two prayer groups in San Diego and Telluride and enjoyed her Bible Studies at La Jolla Community Church. All the while, she stayed close with her dearest friends in the YPO group and the TWN in Telluride. As Jaime said the other day, "The husbands go off to work and think they are accomplishing so much, while the wives stay home and take care of the home. Now after writing this, I have never felt so humbled by all Beckie has accomplished while I was away at work."
Beckie's love for family was insatiable, not only to her immediate family, but all her aunts, uncles and cousins in Santa Barbara as she and her mother would hold an annual tamale party for family and friends. Beckie was a "Daddy's girl."
When she spent time with her father before he was overtaken by Alzheimer's disease, he had that wonderful glimmer in his eye every time he saw Beckie and the grandkids. It was during these past few years when we saw Beckie have that same glimmer in her eyes when Jaime had Beckie stand up and take credit with all the Moms at his graduation from medical school; or Ashley coming home from school in Santa Barbara to take her, as best friends, to get their nails done or buy some makeup; or when Connor would come home from SDSU to tell us about his new observation on life and she would admire his intellect and good looks.
Driven by the warmth of her friendships and her love for her family, Beckie lived seven wonderful years longer than her doctors predicted after she was exposed to Lyme's disease and diagnosed with ALS. Most importantly, it was her spirituality, her hugs from her family, and the new voices in the hallway of her grandkids: Gavin who would call "Grandma Beckie" and make her heart melt and Stella who would give her those heartfelt smiles.
As Connor said the other day, "We are only sad that the future grandkids will not experience the love and passion that Beckie gave each and every one of us everyday." In the end it was Beckie who, as Shannon and Elise will attest, set such high standards for all of us to attain and was such an exemplary role model.
While there are so many things we have not reflected on in this short attestation of our love and respect for Beckie, we know she will continue to bless us in our hearts and spirit and we look forward to joining her again one day in heaven.
A celebration of Beckie's life was held at La Jolla Community Church on Sunday, December 20, at 1:30PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to "Friends of the Poor-Africa," c/o Mrs. Jean Colarusso, 8460 Whale Watch Way, La Jolla, CA 92037.
Published in La Jolla Light (Online) from December 22, 2009 to January 22, 2010
Melanie Reber
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Susan Mayer-Smith, 59, California
Susan Mayer-Smith, owner of GrapeCraft Wine Marketing, Dies
Dr. Susan Mayer-Smith, owner of GrapeCraft Wine Marketing, died of surgical complications January 23, 2010 at age 59.
Susan, who earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology in French at the University of Marseilles, founded the non-profit American Vittoz Society in 2002. She invested in GrapeCraft in 2003 with her husband, winemaker Clark Smith, as a funding source for Vittoz, a European therapy method for treating phantom pain in amputees, ADD in children, and training in bringing the mind to the present moment in today's world of sensory overload.
Susan, who had suffered from Lyme disease, wanted her many female friends to be aware that she had acquired liver disease leading to her death as a result of self-medication for chronic pain, and had no idea how vulnerable the female body is to alcohol. Susie dedicated herself to raising service dogs, and desired that contributions in her name be made to Canine Companions for Independence.
Founder of the American Vittoz Society and owner of GrapeCraft Wine Marketing, died of surgical complications January 23, 2010 at age 59.
Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on March 1, 1950, she attended the University of Wisconsin at age 14, was uneven parallel bars champion of the Great Lakes Region at age 19, when she was also recruited by the Chicago Symphony as a concert flautist, later winning honors as a concert pianist and MA degrees in Education and Music.
Susan served with her first husband Michael McClure in a pastorate in Loomis, Nebraska after earning a Master of Divinity from Trinity College, accompanying him as a missionary to Zaire in 1984 and subsequently planting churches in France throughout the following 25 years.
She earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology in French at the University of Marseilles in 1995 and directed CCCM, a clinic with 2,000 clients for the reinsertion of depressed persons.
Following a chance encounter in the market in Aix-en-Provence in which a woman in tears related that she could not perform her shopping duties because she did not read numerals, Susie championed a pilot program for the promotion of literacy in Arabic women, an initiative which subsequently manifested throughout Europe.
Widowed in 1999, Susan (always "Susie") reconnected in 2001 with Clark Smith, whom she and her first husband had known at MIT, and married Clark on September 8, 2001.
Returning to France to complete post-doctorate certification in the Vittoz method, a European therapy method for treating phantom pain in amputees, ADD in children, and training in bringing the mind to the present moment in today's world of sensory overload.
She founded the non-profit American Vittoz Society in 2002. She invested in her winemaking husband in 2003, forming GrapeCraft Wine Marketing as a funding source for Vittoz. Susan, who had suffered from Lyme disease, wanted her many female friends to be aware that she had acquired liver disease leading to her death as a result of self-medication for chronic pain, and had no idea how vulnerable the female body is to alcohol.
Susie dedicated herself to raising service dogs, and desired that contributions in her name be made to Canine Companions for Independence. She is survived by her loving husband Clark and an extended family of in-laws, nieces and nephews and friends in California and France. A Memorial Service will be held 7:00 p.m. Wednesday. February 3, 2010 at Presbyterian Church of the Roses. DANIELS CHAPEL OF THE ROSES FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES, 525-3730
Melanie Reber
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Unknown male, 25, Sweden
Fatal course of cerebral vasculitis induced by neuroborreliosis. Buchwald F, Abul-Kasim K, Tham J, Hansen BU. Neurol India 2010;58:139-41
Borreliosis is a tick-borne illness caused by the spirochete Borrelia and the different causative strains identified include B. burgdorferi sensu strictu in America and B. garinii and B. afzelii in Europe. Clinical manifestations are wide and vary in severity. A fatal case of neuroborreliosis complicated by cerebral vasculitis in a young male patient prompted us to present this case.
Beloved wife Jennifer Elaine Pesci passed away June 9, 2010 in Tampa , Florida .She was born November 10, 1964 in Indianapolis , Indiana . At the age of twenty-two she moved to Tampa and created a life filled with friends, family, pets and her greatest talent -- art. Jennifer was a self-made woman who worked her way up from an entry level position to Human Resources Director with PriceWaterhouseCoopers. In the summer of 1996 she met Andrew David Argintar and on October 25, 1998 they were married after a romantic proposal in front of the Eiffel Tower . Through this marriage she gained two step-daughters, Susan and Lauren Argintar who were nothing less than her own children. She is survived by Andrew, Susan, Lauren and her own family, father and step-mother Bill & Marilyn Pesci of Indianpolis, mother Rita Pesci of Dunedin , as well as her older sister Angela Shinkle of Dunedin and younger brother Tom Pesci of Gainesville . Funeral service to be held Wednesday, June 16, 2010 at Blount & Curry Funeral Home, 605 S. MacDill Avenue in Tampa with a visitation held at 9:00 AM followed by a service at 10:00 AM; graveside service will be private. In lieu of flowers the family requests charitable contributions to a cause close to Jennifer: the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS.org)
Tincup
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It's with sadness that I report the passing of Dr. Teresa ``Terri'' Royer MacKnight, 57, on Sunday August 15, 2010 in Andover, ME.
She bravely fought Lyme disease and multiple co-infections for more than 14 years. Terri was one of the founding members of ILADS and the Society's first president.
The family requests those who desire, in lieu of flowers, please contribute to ``Teresa MacKnight Memorial Fund'' c/o Franklin Savings Bank, P.O. 579, Rumford, ME 04276.
Dr. Teresa [Terri] Royer MacKnight, 57, Andover, Maine
ANDOVER, Maine -- Dr. Teresa "Terri" Royer MacKnight, 57, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 15, 2010, peacefully at her home in Andover.
She was born March 25, 1953, in Lewisburg, Pa., a daughter of Russell and Louise Royer, of New Columbia, Pa.
She graduated from Lewisburg High School, Class of 1971 and received her Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine, Des Moines University in Iowa in 1979.
Dr. MacKnight practiced medicine in Hollywood, Fla., Seattle, Wash., Negley, Ohio, and Beaver, Pa., before moving to Maine in 1990.
She practiced medicine in Rumford until being disabled by Neurologic Lyme Disease.
She was one of the founders of the International Lyme and Associated Disease Society and the society's first president in 1999.
As a lecturer and author, she strived to help the medical community and the public to recognize, treat and prevent Lyme Disease.
Her desire to help others also took her to Barrow, Ala. American Samoa and into rural areas where she was able to help those without access to medical care.
Terri was a loving mother who treasured the time she spent with her son Michael and was delighted to see the wonderful young man he has grown into. He was the apple of her eye.
She was known as a compassionate physician and a good friend to many who knew her.
Terri enjoyed gardening, skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing, snorkeling, biking, hiking, and wilderness camping. When not outside, she could be found in the kitchen where she enjoyed cooking for her family.
Some of her fondest memories were those spent at camp with family and friends. She also enjoyed traveling and exploring new areas.
Surviving are her son, Michael, and his father, Dirk MacKnight, of Andover, Maine; her mother and father, Russell and Louise Royer, of New Columbia; one brother, Rod Royer, of Salt Point, N.Y.; and one sister, Robin Yost, of Milton, Pa.
A memorial service will be conducted 1 p.m. Monday at the Andover Congregational Church, Andover, Maine, with the Rev. Jane Rich officiating.
Those who desire in lieu of flowers, please contribute to "Teresa MacKnight Memorial Fund" c/o Franklin Savings Bank, P. O. Box 579, Rumford, Maine 04276 in her memory.
Arrangements are under the care of the Meader & Son Funeral Home, 3 Franklin St., P.O. Box 537, Rumford, Maine.
posted
Ed Parker, 62, Michigan, died January 30,2010
KALAMAZOO -- A local woman whose husband died in January from what she believes were complications from Lyme disease wants to raise awareness of its symptoms so others will get tested and treated if necessary.
And she's hoping people will participate in a fundraiser for the Michigan Lyme Disease Association on Saturday at Lakeview Park, in Portage. The volunteer-run advocacy group offers awareness and prevention education and support groups.
Tammy Parker, 51, of Schoolcraft, who works for a chiropractor in Portage, said her husband, Ed, died Jan. 30 after a health decline that began in May 2009. He was 62.
She said the two of them had noticed a rash on his neck that they initially thought was ringworm and told doctors about it.
Ed Parker was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease, in August 2009, but in October other doctors said that he had tested positive for Lyme disease and believed his neurological symptoms were due to Lyme disease, Tammy Parker said. She believes he never had ALS, but that Lyme disease caused all of his symptoms and complications.
-------------------- **Eat Chocolate** Posts: 942 | From USA | Registered: Mar 2005
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Tincup
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Rachael Coxon
Woman whose courage was an inspiration dies aged 38
By Jill Harding
11:29am Tuesday 2nd November 2010
A WOMAN whose courage and fortitude was an inspiration to all who knew her has died aged 38.
Rachel Coxon was an active 13-year-old looking forward to a bright future when she was bitten by a tick during a family day out in the New Forest.
The seemingly minor incident led to her contracting Lyme disease and she was left paralysed from the chest down.
In 2003 the Journal supported a campaign to buy Rachel a wheelchair she could control with her chin to allow her to move independently.
Generous readers helped to raise 6,000 and Rachel was presented with her chair, which will now be donated to Salisbury District Hospital's spinal unit.
Earlier this year Rachel was diagnosed with cancer and she died last Monday.
A service of celebration will be held for Rachel at St Paul's Church in Salisbury on Monday at 1.30pm.
* For tributes to Rachel see the November 4 edition of the Salisbury Journal.
posted
Lindsay K. Kinneberg, 28, from Minnesota Rest in peace...
Kinneberg, Lindsay K. age 28, of St. Louis Park.
Cherished daughter, compassionate friend, loyal companion to her dog Louis, passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 23, 2010, due to complications from Lyme Disease and its co-infections.
Born 12/19/1981 in St. Louis Park, Lindsay attended St. Louis Park Senior High School (class of 2000), Grinnell College in Iowa (2004), and Berkeley Law School (Boalt Hall) in Berkeley, CA (2007). Although Lindsay graduated, she could not take the bar and pursue her passion in Public Interest Law, for Lyme Disease had already invaded her body.
Her friends would describe Lindsay as kind, caring, compassionate, silly, unassuming and she returned those feelings in her fierce and intense love for her family and friends. She fought Lyme Disease for over 5 years with her unusual intensity.
After surrendering her spirit to her Savior, Lindsay has joined her beloved sister, Jennie in the kingdom of God, where they both left behind their broken earthly bodies, and now their souls are together again in the love & joy of Heaven. Preceded in death by her cherished sister, Jennifer Jean (Feb. 2010), grandparents, and cousin, Leah Katayama. Lindsay will be immensely missed but eternally loved by her parents, Michael & Teresa Kinneberg and her dear friends.
Services to be held Saturday, October 9, 2010 at 3 p.m. with visitation 1 1/2 hours prior at Wooddale Lutheran Church, 4003 Wooddale Ave., St. Louis Park, MN 55416. Phone 952-926-7603. Private Interment.
Donations preferred to turnthecorner.org. (Lyme Disease advocacy).
Published in Star Tribune from October 3 to October 6, 2010
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Johnette Ballenger Sowder, 47, of Roanoke, Va.
Johnette Ballenger Sowder, 47, of Roanoke, Va., unexpectedly passed away on October, 14 2010, at her childhood home in Knightdale, N.C.
Johnette had bravely battled the effects of a nine year fight against Lyme Disease. In spite of the physical pain caused by the disease and the emotional pain of having a disease that is misunderstood by many people in the fields of medicine, insurance and government, she had a dream of (in her words) "Approaching Normal" and during the past few months she had shown remarkable progress toward that goal.
Because of her progress, Johnette intended to spend October 12 through October 25 with her family members, while her husband/soul-mate of 20 years, E. Wayne Sowder, mixed sound at the Folk Festival Tent at the N.C. State Fair. She wanted to be with her loving father, Kenneth R. Ballenger, at a time when he was also facing medical challenges as well as her mother/best friend, Phyllis, and devoted stepfather, Bill Chancellor, of Lake Royale, N.C.
Thankfully, Johnette's last day on earth was shared with her favorite (and only) brother, Kenneth Julian Ballenger, and his wife, Melody, watching their two beautiful and adorable daughters, AnaMarie and Harmony Ballenger, all of Fuquay, N.C., at play in a Knightdale park. Johnette had planned on visiting her beloved grandmother, Minnie Rae "Nannie" West, of Greensboro, N.C., on the trip back home to Roanoke as the ultimate finale of our trip. Johnette and "Nannie" shared so many traits that we joked that they were as alike as "Two-Peas in a Pod", hardly a week passed that they did not call or write to each other.
Johnette loved medicine, forensics, music, photography, football, boxing, animals (especially Antoinette her 16 year old cat) and would always find beauty in the simplest parts of everyday life. She loved and missed the people she worked with at Wake Medical Center and Roanoke Memorial Hospital.
I was fortunate to share 20 years with Johnette, she changed my life and I can't believe she is gone. We loved and cared for each other and now I believe she is playing in a Heavenly park with the friends, family and her pets, Muffin and Landry, that went ahead of her. Most certainly with Johnette's cherished grandfather, Johnny R. West, from whom her name was derived; her fraternal grandparents, Raydon and Esteel Ballenger; and my parents, Basil N. and Mary B. Sowder.
Lyme Disease changed both of our lives and in lieu of flowers. please donate or purchase a DVD of the Documentary "Under Our Skin" from either Underourskin.com, Open Eye Pictures, 2656 Bridgeway, Suite 202, Sausalito, Calif. 94965, 415-332-3266 or Amazon.com.
Johnette always wanted to help other people avoid the suffering she experienced, let the spread of Lyme Disease awareness be her lasting memorial.
L. Harold Poole Funeral Service in Knightdale, N.C. are handling her final needs. The family invites any of her friends to a celebration of her life on Tuesday October 19, 2010, 1 p.m. in the chapel where she was married on the grounds of Whitestone a Masonic & Eastern Star Community, 700S Holden Rd., Greensboro, N.C. 27407, 888-558-6374. Chaplin Tommy Jones officiating with special music by Charles Johnson. Condolences to the family may be made at www.poolefuneral.com under Obituaries.
Published in Roanoke Times on October 17, 2010 * * * * * Rest in peace, friend of Lyme patients. We will work to increase Lyme disease awareness. Smile
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Myrna Vallejo, 72, of California was Lyme disease activist
Myrna Vallejo, 72 CARLSBAD -- Myrna Vallejo, of 1022 Iris Court, Carlsbad, Calif., died on Thursday, August 19, 2010 at her home.
A daughter of Luis Vallejo and Brigida Moran, she was born in Guayaquil, Ecuador and later moved to New York City, where she earned an Associate degree in Accounting from Greensborough Community College. A successful accountant and later business owner, she moved to the San Diego area upon retirement.
She will be remembered for her devotion to her beloved "Yorkies" and cats, and for her wonderful sense of humor, even in the midst of her suffering from late stage Lyme disease.
Mynra was also truly thoughtful and generous in her remembrances throughout the year to her innumerable nieces and nephews and their children.
She dedicated her later years to the cause of the fight against Lyme disease and was active in both regional and national Lyme disease organizations.
She is survived by sisters, Olga Wright of Dover, New Hampshire, Nellie Castillo of Guayaquil, Ecuador, and Margot Vallejo of Palestina, Ecuador, as well as many nieces nephews and their children. A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Carlsbad, California on Friday, August 20, 2010.
The family wants to thank Dr. Theresa Yang, Rev. Lark Diaz, her caregiver, Cookie Lopez, and the local Jehovah Witness community, for their extraordinary kindness and emotional support in her last years. San Diego Hospice also provided exceptional care in the last days of her life.
Donations to her memory may be made to: National Lyme Disease Association, Inc. P.O. Box 1438 Jackson, New Jersey, 08527 or California Lyme Disease Association (CALDA) P.O. Box 1423 Ukiah, California 95482-1423 Sign the Guest Book online obits.nctimes.com
Published in North County Times on August 31, 2010
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Tracy9
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A young woman in her 30's in Branford, CT took her life last month. She had 3 children. Two people told me about her in the waiting room in my LLD office last week. I believe Randy Sykes has her name and the details.
13 years Lyme & Co.; Small Fiber Neuropathy; Myasthenia Gravis, Adrenal Insufficiency. On chemo for 2 1/2 years as experimental treatment for MG. Posts: 4480 | From Northeastern Connecticut | Registered: Jun 2005
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Tracy9
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Member # 7521
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A young man on Wall Street with Lyme Disease jumped out of a window and took his own life last month. His obituary was widely posted on Facebook. He could not bear to live with the disease anymore and left behind a suicide note.
13 years Lyme & Co.; Small Fiber Neuropathy; Myasthenia Gravis, Adrenal Insufficiency. On chemo for 2 1/2 years as experimental treatment for MG. Posts: 4480 | From Northeastern Connecticut | Registered: Jun 2005
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Tincup
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 5829
posted
Dr. Burke- LLMD in Pennsylvania
Bernard S. Burke M.D.
Bernard S. Burke M.D. of Chester Springs Bernard S. Burke, M.D., 57, of Chester Springs, died Tuesday, November 16, 2010. He was the husband of Ottavia P. Chiaradonna Burke.
Born in Pottsville, he was the son of the late Bernard E. Burke and the late Angelene B. D'Antonio Burke. Bernard practiced medicine for 30 years.
He loved to ski, do water sports and many other outdoor activities. In addition to his wife he is survived by his children, Laura Rachko, of Upper Uwchlan, Christopher Burke, of Chadds Ford, Megan Burke, of State College, step-sons, Mario Miceli, of Unionville and Luca Miceli, of Unionville.
He is also survived by two sisters, Jody Gaudet, of Mass. and Donna Burke, of Pa. Relatives and friends are invited to his Funeral Mass, 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 23, 2010, at St. Agnes Church, 233 W. Gay St., West Chester. Visitation will be 9 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 23, 2010, at the church. Interment private.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Lyme Disease Assn. of Southeastern Pa., Inc., P.O. Box 181, Pocopson, PA 19366 Arrangements by DellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home Inc., West Chester 610-696-1181, www.DellaFH.com
Hilary Inks passed on Saturday, November 13, 2010, at her home in Gotha, Florida. Hilary courageously battled the late stages of Lyme disease during the last months of her life.
Hilary was born Hilary Brooke Fuller on May 15, 1978 in McMinnville, Oregon to Catherine and Bruce Fuller. She attended elementary school and junior high school in McMinnville, Oregon before moving to Lakeway, Texas in 1991. Hilary attended middle school at Lake Travis and graduated in 1996 from Richarte High School in Georgetown, Texas. Hilary lived and worked in the Georgetown, Marble Falls, Cedar Park, Texas communities before moving to Orlando, Florida in 2002 with her husband, David Inks, and her family.
In passing Hilary will join her cousin, Brennan Jones, and her grandparents, Albert and Beverly Beeler and Lou Fuller, who preceded her in death. Hilary is survived by her husband, David Inks; her two children, her daughter, Abigail Inks, age 7, and her son, Aiden Inks, age 4; her mother, Catherine Mabry; her fathers, Bruce Fuller and Tracy Mabry; her sisters, Chanda Fuller, Alex Mabry, Samantha Doven, and Hannah Mabry; and her brother Maxwell Mabry.
Hilary was a wonderful mother, wife, daughter, sister, and caretaker of her own and other's children, and of her Boston Terrier, Hydra.
Hilary ran a day care out of her home in Gotha until she was abruptly forced to close it in February of this year during her sudden hospitalization upon manifestation of late stage Lyme disease and discovery of a lesion upon her brain stem.
Hilary enjoyed all of her kids that she cared for, and she was loved by all. Hilary was a beautiful, kind, caring, strong-willed young woman, and was very giving of herself. She was a dedicated mom to her children, and her heart was always in the right place. Hilary was fun loving and had a wonderful sense of humor; even though she was very sick in the last year of her life she said several times, regarding her experience with Lyme disease: "I wouldn't wish this disease on my worst enemy". She stayed positive and strong until the day she left us.
Hilary's final wish was to raise awareness of Lyme disease so that others would be saved from the infectious disease which often goes undiagnosed but is curable with timely assessment, diagnosis and treatment.
A remembrance and celebration of Hilary's life (with food, drink and memories) will be held at the Saddlebrook Community Meeting Hall located at 3412 Furlong Way in Gotha, Florida (the community entrance is off of Hempel just south of Old Winter Garden Road) in Hilary's neighborhood, on this Saturday, November 20, 2010, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Anyone who would like to celebrate Hilary's life with her family and friends will be welcomed.
In lieu of flowers and in honor of Hilary's last wish, donations may be sent to the ILADS, the International Lyme and Associated Disease Society, a professional medical and research organization, P.O. Box 341461, Bethesda, Maryland 20827-1461, which can be located on the internet at : www.ilads.org, and contacted by e mail at: [email protected].
Published in Austin American-Statesman on November 18, 2010
Posts: 8430 | From Not available | Registered: Oct 2000
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nenet
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 13174
posted
quote:Originally posted by Tracy9: A young man on Wall Street with Lyme Disease jumped out of a window and took his own life last month. His obituary was widely posted on Facebook. He could not bear to live with the disease anymore and left behind a suicide note.
Melanie Reber
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 3707
posted
Jena Hellman Leblang, 27, Virginia
Jena Hellman Leblang, 27, of Arlington, VA, and formerly of Sarasota, FL, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 14, 2011.
Services and burial were in New York.
Jena was born in Brooklyn, NY and moved to Sarasota, FL in 1989. She graduated from Pine View School in 2001 where she was a member of the National Honor Society, a National Merit Finalist, an AP Scholar, a Peer Mentor, a recipient of the Kodak Young Leader's Award, and won various awards as a participant in the National Forensic League.
During her high school years, she served as an attorney in the Teen Court program which works to keep youthful violators from becoming repeat offenders. She attended Tulane University on an academic scholarship graduating Summa Cum Laude in 2005.
While there she founded the Listen, Learn and Read program to improve the reading skills of disadvantaged children in New Orleans. She was also the coordinator of the Tulane Book Giving Tree, the Community Service Chair for the Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority, a Student Senator, and also participated in Tulane's LeadershipVillage. She participated in Habitat for Humanity, Race for a Cure, was a March of Dimes Representative, and was part of the New Orleans rally for Public Schools.
Jena received the coveted Tulane 34 Award for her exemplary leadership, service, and academic excellence. Jena received her Juris Doctor degree, with Honors, from George Washington University Law School in 2008 and was a Merit Scholar. She was the recipient of the American Bar Association/Bureau of National Affairs Award for Excellence in Labor and Employment Law.
After graduation, she was an associate with the law firm of Goodwin Procter, LLP in Washington, D.C.
Jena was and always will be a beloved daughter to her parents Mindy and Mark of Sarasota, FL, wife to Jay of Arlington, VA, a loving granddaughter to Sandy and Norman and Sheldon, a loving daughter-in-law to Marge and Norman, a beloved sister-in-law, niece, cousin and friend to all who knew her. Jena brought people together with goodness in her heart and always a smile on her face. She had an everlasting impact on each life she touched and instilled in us memories that will forever keep her in our hearts. May she rest in peace.
Memorial donations may be made to the Jena Hellman Leblang Memorial Research Fund c/o The Lanford Foundation at 13039 Gopher Wood Trail, Tallahassee, FL 32312 which is a tax deductible charitable organization.
Posts: 7052 | From Colorado | Registered: Mar 2003
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Barbara Frances (Weisse) Weaver, Thompson, CT
Barbara Weaver, 83, died on December 26, 2010, of complications associated with Central Nervous System Lyme Disease. Born in in Boston, MA, on August 29, 1927, her parents were Leo F. Weisse and Nina M. (Durham) Weisse. She was pre-deceased by her husband, George Weaver, as well as by a brother, Leo Weisse.
Barbara graduated from Jeanne D'Arc Academy in 1945 and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from Radcliffe College. She also held a Masters Degree in Library Science from the University of Rhode Island, and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Education from Boston University.
In the course of her career, Barbara worked as a photographer at Edgerton, Germanhauser and Greer (EG&G), working directly for ``Doc'' Edgerton. She participated in the photography of the atomic bomb testing on the Manhattan Project. She also worked for PhotoSwitch, division of the Electronics Corporation of America.
Barbara married George Briggs Weaver, Jr. in 1951. During their marriage, she and George built and operated the 1st purpose-built private road race course in America, the Thompson Raceway. Over the course of the track's lifetime, the Weavers established a reputation for providing a combination of challenge, safety, and hospitality for competitors and guests from around the world.
Barbara and George were members of the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America). She and he remain honorary members of the Vintage Sports Car Club of America and are considered pioneers of sports car racing.
Barbara was a pilot, a gourmet cook, sports car enthusiast, an avid knitter (including work with Kaffe Fassett intarsia patterns), as well as a NY Times puzzler. She loved traveling worldwide and eventually visited every state in the US, and nearly every continent on the planet. She was an open space advocate who enjoyed the beach and the sun, and loved swimming. In her later years, she was a pioneer for aging-in-place, living in her own home until the end of her life.
Barbara's later career was in library services working as Head of the Thompson Public Library, Director of Library Services for the Connecticut State Library System where she established the Interlibrary Loan System, Assistant Head of the Central Massachusetts Regional Library System in Worcester, MA, Instructor at Simmons College, State Librarian for the State of New Jersey and State Librarian for the State of Rhode Island. She was the State of Rhode Island's first Chief Information Officer and a member of the Governor's Cabinet.
Barbara was also a Council member at the International Motor Racing Research Library in Watkins Glen, NY, a member of the Thompson Historical Society Board of Directors where she helped create the beautiful Ellen Larned Memorial Museum housed in the original Thompson Library Building and where she headed work on the East Thompson section of the Echoes of Thompson Volume I history book. She also was on the Board of Directors of the Rhode Island Historical Society, a member of the National Association of State Chief Information Officers, President of the Chief Officers of State Library Agencies from 1986-1988, a member of the Council of State Library Agencies in the Northeast, on the Board of Directors of the Northeast Document Conservation Center, Chair of the American Library Association ASCLA State Library Agency Section and the Legislative Committee, Editorial Board Member for ``The Bottom Line: A Financial Magazine for Libraries'', and held the elected position of Library Director for the Thompson Library. She was one of the original members of the Thompson Together Environmental Group and held many other volunteer positions throughout her career.
She was awarded many significant recognitions including REIMA's Presidential Award in 1998 for outstanding library service, COLA Sweetheart of the Year in 1997, University of Rhode Island GSLIS Distinguished Alumni Award, Trenton YWCA Women in Industry & Government Award, Common Cause of Rhode Island State Governing Board Award and the WHCLIST Bessie B. Moore Award. As well, Barbara had many publications to her credit.
A memorial reception, in celebration of Barbara's life, will be held on Saturday, January 15, 2011 from 1:00-5:00PM at the Inn at Woodstock Hill, Woodstock, CT.
Please omit flowers. For those wishing to contribute in Barbara's memory:
International Lyme & Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) PO Box 341461 Bethesda, Maryland 20827-1461 (301) 263-1080 Email: [email protected] ilads.org (http://ilads.org )
Thompson Public Library 934 Riverside Drive (Route 12) North Grosvenordale, CT 06255 (860) 923-9779 http://thompsonpubliclibrary.org/
The International Motor Racing Research Center at Watkins Glen 610 S. Decatur Street Watkins Glen, NY 14891-1613 (607) 535-9044 Send e-mail to: [email protected] http://racingarchives.org/
-------------------- Me - Igenex: IgM: 41IND, IgG: 39IND, 41+ but Plasmid PCR Positive Kiddo - after 1 year IV - positive Lyme culture (before IV: IgM:31,34,41,83-93 IND; IgG: 41+++, 66+) Posts: 133 | From CT | Registered: Feb 2011
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Melanie Reber
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 3707
posted
Alexandria Ann Hermstad, 17, Iowa
Alexandria "Alex" Hermstad, age 17, of Storm Lake, Iowa died on Monday, February 14, 2011 peacefully at her home in Storm Lake. Alexandria Ann Hermstad was born August 22, 1993 at the Sioux Valley Hospital in Cherokee, Iowa, the daughter of Jeff Hermstad and Lori (Hadden) Hermstad. On December 12, 1993, Alex was baptized at the First Lutheran Church in Sioux Rapids, Iowa and later confirmed on May 4, 2008 at Grace Lutheran Church in Storm Lake, where she served as an acolyte.
Growing up, Alex attended school at St. Mary's Catholic School, and Storm Lake Community Schools in Storm Lake. Alex enjoyed riding horses, four-wheeling, snowmobiling, and boating. She loved playing softball, basketball and volleyball. Alex enjoyed having fun with her friends and family; especially her twin sister, Jaci. She had an infectious sense-of-humor and enjoyed practical jokes. She found pleasure in practicing skills such as wrapping and splinting as she had aspirations to become an orthopedist. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Alex loved life as evident from her strong determination to fight her lengthy illness. Alex will forever be remembered as; ``Unable to move, but moving hearts, moving souls, and inspiring lives every day''. She stated that she never wanted anyone to feel sorry for her. Her strength gave us strength, her faith gave us faith, her hope gave us hope, and her love brought us love. Alex's site was known as "Angels For Alex" it is now known as, "Alex, our Angel."
Those left to cherish her memory include her mother, Lori (Hadden) Hermstad and twin sister, Jaci Hermstad of Storm Lake, Iowa, father, Jeff Hermstad of Storm Lake, Iowa; maternal grandparents, Dave and Jean Hadden of Storm Lake, Iowa; paternal grandmother, Colleen Hermstad of Spencer, Iowa; uncles and aunts: Mike Hadden of Indianola, Iowa; Terri (Bruce) Groen of Spencer, Iowa; Scott (Renee) Hadden of Victoria, Minnesota; Brad (Heidi) Hermstad of Sioux Rapids, Iowa; Mike Hermstad of Spencer, Iowa; Tim Hermstad of Marathon, Iowa; cousins: Kady and Brody Groen of Spencer, Iowa; Ashley and Amanda Hadden of Victoria, Minnesota; Heather and Hayley of Hartley, Iowa; Grayson and Kayley of Sioux Rapids, Iowa; extended family and many friends.
Alex was preceded in death by her grandfather, Milo Hermstad; uncle, Bruce Hermstad; and aunt, Denise Kleaveland.
Alexandria "Alex" Hermstad, age 17, of Storm Lake, Iowa died on Monday, February 14, 2011 at her home in Storm Lake. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m., Monday, February 21, 2011 at Summit Evangelical Free Church in Alta, Iowa. Burial will be in the Storm Lake Cemetery. Visitation will be 2-7:00 p.m., Sunday, February 20, 2011 at the Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake, where the family will be present from 5-7:00 p.m. The Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake is in charge of the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family has established a memorial fund.
Melanie Reber
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 3707
posted
Vernon Dale Kyle, 55, Kansas
Vernon Dale Kyle liked a good story. Mostly about catfishing on a long forgotten Kansas lake. He was born Sept 24, 1955 in Garnett, Kansas. He had one best friend in those early days, and it was Don. They roamed the Kansas prarie like the buffalo, wild and free! He was raised by Chester and Edna Kyle with one brother and sister, Jim and Aletha. Vernon went into the US Army 82nd Airborne division and it wasn't long before he took his turn in Viet Nam in 1974, then on to Germany. He re-enlisted into the US Army Veterinary Corps stationed at Ft. Ord, then to an outpost in San Diego, California. He met Peggy Miller and they married at Cabrillo National Monument at the Lighthouse overlooking the ocean.
After discharge, he moved to Tulsa, Ok where two awesome kids were born, Jamie Lynn in 1985 and Jesse Dale in 1988. Vernon went to college and became a journeyman welder and stationary engineer. He specialized in boilers and high pressure systems, and stainless steel welding. He loved coin collecting, nature, and decorative engraving. He returned to Garnett, Kansas in the early 1990's to support his mother when his father was ill. He was employed at the Anderson County School District in the maintainence department until suddenly he became to ill to work in October 2007. He was life flighted twice to the KC hospitals and inICU and on a rehabilitation unit for five months.
Vernon's illness was bacterial in origin, his family was told by the doctors in Kansas City. When he received IV antibiotics, he thrived. When the doctors took away the antibiotics, he began to fail. The doctors would never identify the name of the bacteria that was trying to take Vernon's life. He had symptoms like abcesses in his abdomen and near his lung and kidney, foot pain, rashes simular to a bartonella rash, and little red dots on his body, memory loss, dizziness, joint pain, loss of feeling in his hands, feet, loss of use of fine motor skills, difficulty processing any information, body jerks (myoclonus and severe muscle cramps) and seisures.
As time went on he experienced intense bone pain from a collapsing spinal cord, and lost about 6 inches in height. One doctor his family consulted said that Lyme disease and bartonella can cause the bone to not have blood supply and oxygen due to excessive fibrin production in the blood. As time progressed, Vernon needed oxygen, had an intermittent low heart rate of 40, would pass out. He became a diabetic and experienced hepatitis and kidney failure. By the way, his cat died of tickborne illness.
He could never understand the ``Controversy.'' Even though, his other family members were diagnosed with Lyme disease, he was not tested by his doctors, simply because they refused. Additionally, after numerous hospitalizations, he was denied long term antibiotics by infectious disease doctors in the hospital and his physicians in the community; and testing when his family directly asked for Lyme testing using tickborne laboratories. More than three years of advocacy efforts failed on his behalf.
During one hospitalization, his family asked the infectious disease doctor, ``can you help him, his family has Lyme disease, will you test him?'' That Infectious Disease doctor said, ``No,'' firmly, immediately turned his back and walked out of the room. The doctor discharged Vernon the next morning. But at one point, Vernon had to laugh because this bright Infectious Disease doctor said, ``there are no ticks in Kansas.''
Several times, Vernon was too sick to leave the hospital and care for himself, and he lived alone. Even in his weakened condition, once the hospital sent him home in a taxi without any home nursing! His insurance wouldn't pay any more for his care. Not even Adult Protective Services would intervene, even after many calls.
Vernon learned to NOT speak about Lyme disease with anyone. No one was willing to give a correct diagnosis of Lyme disease and bartonella. Not the Veteran's Administration hospital, not the big medical centers in Kansas City, nor his local doctor. No one would test or treat his illness. They were all willing partners in his suffering and death from tickborne illnesses. He lost the war.
Vernon was left by his doctors to debilitate, and after losing balance, he had repeated traumatic brain injuries from falling. He later was able to get assistance through the TBI waiver program, but after many calls for a higher level of care, even this system failed him. His family later discovered that he had gone a month without a bath, and often didn't have food or water, and went to the hospital on his birthday after he collapsed from carbon monoxide poisening from his furnace.
Thankfully, he was with family that day and he was admitted for another time in the ICU. Those who were suppose to care for him, didn't. Every time his family would try to intervene, those in charge of his care would fight his family. His caretakers even refused to help him to apply for full Veteran's benefits as a Viet Nam veteran, and he often suffered not having enough money to live. He took it well. He kept his doctors and caretakers laughing. He knew they were going to let him die.
He lived with the courage of a warrior, and endured and persevered through unrelenting pain to the end, which came Sunday, October 3, 2010. He left a good example of courage under fire, and joy in the midst of sorrow. At his memorial service, his son-in-law ecited ``Invictus,'' The more his body was crushed by Lyme disease and bartonella, the sweeter and more loving person he became. He gave his heart to his Savior, Jesus Christ late in life, and it was evident that his life had changed. He is already greatly missed by the love of his life, Peggy, and his children, siblings, and neighbors and friends. Now he is truly free, and we are sure- he went fishing in heaven and he caught the biggest fish this time!
Posts: 7052 | From Colorado | Registered: Mar 2003
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kam
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 3410
posted
Wow. I have chills from reading this.
Posts: 15927 | From Became too sick to work or do household chores in 2001. | Registered: Dec 2002
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Melanie Reber
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 3707
posted
Carole A. Van Doorn, 43, Illinois
Carole A. Van Doorn, 43, of Crystal Lake, passed away Feb. 12, 2011, at home surrounded by family after a courageous battle with ALS.
She was born Sept. 21, 1967. She is survived by her beloved husband of 18 years, Dean Van Doorn; her loving children, Rachel, Joseph and Elizabeth; her cherished parents, Bruno and Patricia Grund; her dear brother, Dan (Heather) Grund; her mother-in-law, Sharon Van Doorn; her father-in-law, Bill Van Doorn; her sister-in-law. Nicole (Brad) Schwan; her brother-in-law, Dave (Nancy) Van Doorn; and many dear friends.
The visitation will be from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 14, at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Route 176), Crystal Lake. The visitation will continue from 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15, until the 11 a.m. service at Willow Creek Community Church, 220 Exchange Drive, Crystal Lake. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Carole Van Doorn Memorial Fund, Homestate Bank, P.O. Box 1738, Crystal Lake, IL 60039. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.davenportfamily.com.
Published in the Northwest Herald from February 13 to February 14, 2011
Bea Seibert
Posts: 7306 | From Martinsville,VA,USA | Registered: Oct 2004
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Melanie Reber
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 3707
posted
Jon William Davis, 51, Ohio
PLEASANT HILL - Jon William Davis, 51, formerly of Covington, passed away Friday, March 4, 2011, at his residence in Pleasant Hill. He passed peacefully at home surrounded by the love of his family and friends,after a 10-year battle with Lyme Disease-induced illnesses.
He was born Jan. 21, 1960, to Harry M. and Bernice I. (Heisey) Davis of Covington. Jon is survived by his wife Nancy (Tarzinski) Davis and his wonderful children, son, Nathan L. Davis and daughter-in-law, Jenna L . (Stoner) Davis of Pleasant Hill, daughter, Sara L. Davis of Columbus, daughter, Jessica L. Hutchinson (Polson) and son-in-law, James H. Hutchinson of Covington and daughter, Jaclyn M. Prickett (Polson) and son-in-law, Nathan A. Prickett, of Union. Jon felt extremely blessed to live to see the births of his five grandchildren, Samuel Hutchinson, Andrew David Hutchinson, Luke Alexander Prickett, Magnolia Lee Davis and Isabelle Morgan Prickett.
Jon was preceded in death by brother Jeffery L. Davis of Norwich, Conn. and survived by sister-in-law, Clairlyn Davis, nephew Chad Davis and niece Jeslynne Davis. He was survived by brothers, Joe Robert (J.R.) Davis of, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. and Jay D. Davis of Piqua. Jon also is survived by several aunts, uncles, wonderful cousins and many loving friends. Also surviving were cousins Dave and Steve Heisey, who were more like brothers; special friends, Dale Smith of West Milton, Gary Evans of Houston, Buck Siler of Houston, Dave Fisher of Covington, Scott Hawk of Tipp City, Larry Shope of Bellbrook and Ed Ladd of Houston.
Before his illness Jon was owner/operator of Davis Enterprises, a furniture repair and refinishing business starting in Covington and later moving to Pleasant Hill. In 1989 ,Jon became a sales representative for Schaeffer Manufacturing of St. Louis, Mo.Jon's extended family includes all his fellow Schaeffer sales reps,the wonderful Buckeye Division, and the special friendships with all his customers that were all so dear to his heart. Jon's mission in life became to educate people about the dangers and health risks associated with Lyme Disease. He felt that his greatest work was an article entitled "Don't Lay Down and Die." "which was published in the spring 2004 issue of Buckmaster Magazine,http://www.buckmasters.com/dont-lay-down-and-die.aspx. Jon also wrote and published another article in Buckmasters Magazine August 2009 issue entitled "Fade to Black and Black " which was an update on his battle and Lyme Disease information.
Private memorial services will be held at Riverside Cemetery, West Milton.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jon's name to an organization for Lyme disease awareness http://www.ilads.org and to our friends at Vitas Hospice,3055 Kettering Blvd. No. 320,Moraine, OH 45439-1965.
Arrangements are being handled by the Hale-Sarver Funeral Home, West Milton.
Melanie Reber
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 3707
posted
Herbert "Bart" Fenolio, 70, california
Resident of San Marcos, CA
May 24, 1940-Dec. 16, 2010
Bart spent Christmas with Jesus. He came home from the hospital to his family with Hospice on December l6th, 2010, and passed away that evening with peace and joy. His wife of 46 years, Carol "Heidi" Fenolio, his daughter Joelle Grove & her husband Brian, and his son Dante & his wife Beth, brother-in-law Rick Hyde & wife Diane surrounded him with love as well as friends and grandchildren.
He grew up in San Jose and Fall River Mills. He graduated from SJSU and married the love of his life, Heidi, in 1964. He & his sister, Brenda Albrecht, opened the first Dolphin Aquarium in l965 which was a huge success and built into the Dolphin Pet Village, which is still owned today by Brenda. Bart developed Dolphin Design, Inc, and began to custom design aquariums for hospitals, doctors offices, and businesses in the Santa Clara valley. His love of meeting new people all the time and his love of the business made Bart so happy. His last project before selling his business was the Cupertino City Library salt water aquarium. He retired and moved to San Diego with Heidi to be close to new grandchildren.
Bart was diagnosed with Lyme Disease in August, 2009, after being misdiagnosed with ALS. He fought this horrific disease with strength and grace.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, 01/29/2011 at 12:00pm at Calvary Chapel San Jose, 1175 Hillsdale Avenue, San Jose, Ca 95118. A dessert reception will follow the service.
We have asked that in lieu of flowers for donations be made to support Lyme Disease research. Lyme Disease is a controversial and devastating disease and very few organizations are able to do research. The family asks that donations be made in Bart's name to: NRFTD (National Research Fund for Tick Borne Disease) You can donate online and make the donation in Bart's name under the "comments" box at: www.nrftd.org.
Published in San Jose Mercury News/San Mateo County Times on January 16, 2011
Posts: 7052 | From Colorado | Registered: Mar 2003
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Melanie Reber
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 3707
posted
Charlotte MacVane, 82, Washington
of Bainbridge Island
Dec. 6, 1929
to March 26, 2011
Charlotte MacVane, beloved wife of Tom, died peacefully at home in his arms on March 26, 2011 after a long struggle with Lyme disease.
Born Charlotte Jane Sears on December 6, 1929 in Boston to Charles and Helen Sears, she grew up in Somerville, Massachusetts. Charlotte graduated in 1951 from Wheelock College in Boston with a degree in elementary education, she taught kindergarten in Medford, Massachusetts and early childhood development at the University of Maryland.
While summering with friends in 1953, Charlotte met her future husband Tom MacVane in his hometown of Long Island, a small island off the Maine coast. They were married on March 5, 1954. Throughout their 57-year marriage, they enjoyed many happy summers in their Long Island cottage "The Camp." Charlotte and Tom raised 5 children while living in Maine, New York, California, Indiana and Washington. They spent the past 36 years in their home on Bainbridge Island.
She loved reading and singing to her grandchildren, driving adventures with her husband, walking the paths of Long Island, baking "goodies" and chatting with family and friends. Charlotte spent many hours volunteering at church, her children's schools, the Long Island Library and was a member of P.E.O. As a new and cautious driver at age 47, her children marveled at her ability to get to her destination without making any left turns! She dedicated her life to the care of her family and they were her joy and contentment. Her love, laughter, smile and wisdom are deeply missed.
Charlotte is survived by her husband Tom, daughters Ellen Arbour (Ron), Susan Armstrong (Vince), Beth Brundige (Mike) all of Bainbridge Island; sons Todd of Bainbridge Island and Jay (Heather) of Poulsbo and grandchildren Kyle, Scott, Grace (Alex), Dane, Lance, Ty, Troy, Cole, Emma and Cara. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Marion.
A private memorial will be held on Bainbridge Island and an additional service is planned this summer on Long Island. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society at www.ilads.org.
It is our hope that others will learn about Lyme disease, a disease easily misdiagnosed.
Melanie Reber
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 3707
posted
Elisabeth Marie Winterfeld, New York
Elisabeth Marie "Lilo" Winterfeld of Hurley passed away on Tuesday, March 29, 2011 after a long illness from Lyme Disease and Alzheimers.
Survived by her husband Charles, daughter Waltraud and her life companion Susan, a son Gustav and his wife Satchiko, two granddaughters, two great-granddaughters, three great-gandsons and one great-greatgranddaughter. A sister Traude in Germany and sisters-in-law, a brother-in-law and nieces and nephews also survive. Born in Zwittau, Sudetenland, now called Svavy Cz Republic to Franz and Theresia Rohatsch Jesch (je'z).
Lilo and her family were among millions of ethnic Germans who were ejected from their homeland. Little history was written or taught about ethnic cleansing of the German speaking people after World War II. A Terrible Revenge and the March of Millions are some of the few stories written about this history.
This left these people with little belongings and no homeland to return to and so were transported to Germany where they were treated like refugees. Her life during this time was incredibly hard, which made her an even stronger person.
She became a United States Citizen on June 5, 1959. Lilo worked many years in the Kingston Hospital Operating room, a job she truly loved. She baby sat, volunteered at the Hurley museum and the Hurley service club. There wasn't anything she could not do. She helped her husband build their home, sewed her children's clothes, knitted, corcheted, quilted, painted and upholstered furnitured.
She loved fishing and camping. She took great joy caring for her perennial gardens and made the best apple strudle. She will be greatly missed by all who have known her. Special thanks to Dr. Bernadette O'Hara, Susan Miller, Rose Crawley, LPN and personal care aides from Willcare.
To submit online condolences to the Winterfeld family, please visit www.SimpsonGaus.com. There will be no service. Cremation was private. Her organs were donated to Columbia University Lyme & Tick Disease Research Center. Arrangement were by Simpson-Gaus Funeral Home, 411 Albany Ave., Kingston.
Published in the Daily Freeman on April 1, 2011
Posts: 7052 | From Colorado | Registered: Mar 2003
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Melanie Reber
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 3707
posted
Erin Elizabeth Spillers, 30, Alabama
Beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to many, Erin Spillers was born June 21, 1980 in Rapid City, SD. She died suddenly at her residence on Thursday, April 28, 2011 from complications of chronic Lyme disease.
Cremation will take place at Southern Memorial Funeral Home and a Memorial Mass will be held at Our Lady Queen of Mercy Church, Montgomery, AL, on Wednesday, May 4, 2011 at 9:30 a.m.
Erin loved Alabama football, gardening, dancing, yoga, music, animals, and spending time with her many friends. She smiled through her pain and was always ready to lend a hand or an encouraging word to everyone she met. She will be deeply missed by everyone she knew. Though her years on Earth were brief, she lived them to the fullest, bringing joy to all who crossed her path. She was beautiful on the inside and out, with a smile that sparkled, a generous sense of humor, and a deep capacity for compassion and love.
She is survived by her mother and stepfather, Dr. Michael and Anne Marie Gormley of Montgomery, AL; father and stepmother, Frank and Kimberlee Spillers, of Atlantic, IA; brother, Mick Gormley, of Montgomery, AL; sister, Jessica Winum (Jarret) of Stanley, NY; grandmother, Phyllis Kertzman, of Rapid City, SD; aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and nieces.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in her memory to the Lyme and Tick-Borne Diseases Research Center, Columbia University, Att: Barbara Strobino, PhD, 1051, Riverside Drive, Unit 69, New York, New York 10032 or at https://giving.columbia.edu/giveonline/?schoolstyle=56437Posts: 7052 | From Colorado | Registered: Mar 2003
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Tincup
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 5829
posted
Jack Colenda- Maryland- Age 8
As my heart breaks again to hear this news, my prayers and most sincere sympathy go out to John Colenda and his family from Perryville, Maryland.
They lost their 8 year old son Jack after he contracted Lyme disease.
Of all the things John Colenda aspired to do with his life, getting a tattoo was never one of them. But in early April, the 40-year-old Perryville resident found himself seated in a chair at House of Ponchos in Abingdon, Md., where he would leave later that day with his first tattoo.
The artistic design that now encompasses Colenda's right shoulder is more than just a tattoo. It's a memorial to his son, Jack, who passed away suddenly last November from health complications after he developed Lyme disease.
``A tattoo is not something I thought I would ever get, but under the circumstances, I decided I would do it, and I'm very pleased with the way it turned out,'' Colenda said.
While pondering the design, Colenda knew he wanted it to be something that nobody else would have.
His concept for the tattoo centered on his 8-year-old son's passion for lacrosse: ``He played football and lacrosse, but he could never wait for lacrosse to start. As soon as football was over, he had his stick ready to go.''
Colenda gave the tattoo artist, Josh Johnson, a picture of his son's lacrosse stick, shoes, helmet and gloves, which were incorporated into the design.
``He even got Jack's name in there where he wrote his name on his gloves,'' Colenda said, pointing to the tiny letters that did indeed spell out ``Jack.''
But Colenda wanted his tattoo to feature more than just his son's lacrosse equipment.
``I thought it needed some kind of background,'' he said.
``At Patterson's funeral home, they took his thumbprint because there are suppliers out there that can make jewelry with your thumbprint on it, and it just clicked - that was the background I needed.''
Colenda contacted the funeral home and had a staff member send him an electronic image of his son's thumbprint. He printed the image and gave it to Johnson, who was able to sketch the print and include it in the tattoo's design.
``This is a memorial that I can keep with me all the time,'' Colenda said.
In addition to getting a tattoo, Colenda has been busy working on another project in honor of his son. He and his wife, Jennifer, are in the process of starting a foundation in jack's name that will benefit local children in need.
The unofficially named JACK Foundation will stand for Just About Community and Kids, Colenda said, going on to explain that he is in the process of filing paperwork to have the name approved.
Tincup
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 5829
posted
Bryan Christopher Frydenberg Bower- June 28, 1982 - May 2, 2011
TOUCHED BY LYME: When pain is simply unbearable 10 June, 2011
_____ Bryan Christopher Frydenberg Bower___________ (June 28, 1982 - May 2, 2011)
As a kid growing up in southern California in the 80s and 90s, Bryan Bower was a bit of a daredevil: BMX biking, rollerblading, skateboarding, snowboarding--never a show-off, but always pursuing his jumps and thrills.
As a college student, he discovered a new passion, rock climbing. He went everywhere with his new best friend and climbing buddy Rhyan. Joshua Tree, Tahquitz, The Needles and Malibu Canyon were southern California favorites.
In his early 20s, Bryan started training to climb Yosemite's El Capitan, practicing with one of those folding ledges that you haul up and sleep on when you're half way up the 3,000-foot granite face. All that came to a screeching halt about six years ago when Bryan was struck by a series of bizarre symptoms: debilitating headaches, brain fog, intense pain in his spine and shoulders, night sweats, difficulties with his balance, sleep disturbance and depression.
That prompted a series of doctor appointments which, after many twists and turns, eventually led to a diagnosis of Lyme disease. By this time, the infection was deeply entrenched in his brain and central nervous system.
His was a dramatically changed personal landscape. There were different kinds of rocks to climb now, boulders named severe neuro-Lyme, co-infections, and brutal suffering.
He would try different doctors and different treatments through the years, even traveling to Mexico for alternative therapies. Sometimes, he could muster some of that old daredevil energy to dive headlong into a new treatment protocol. Sometimes he couldn't.
Occasionally, there would be some improvement in his physical situation. When it didn't last, he'd pour his agony and frustration into the written word, on his blog or in anguished poetry.
Previously a devout Christian, Bryan felt utterly forsaken by the God that had once offered solace and refuge.
In the last few years, Bryan spent most of his time in bed, trying to distract himself from blinding pain that even heavy-duty meds couldn't relieve.
He'd surf the web on his laptop, searching for alternative Lyme treatments while lying on an electro-magnetic mat. He'd keep TV, Netflix, or video games flickering on the big screen in front of him, in vain hope of even momentary diversion from the pain.
Friends and relationships from the past had pretty much fallen by the wayside. His mom and dad gave love and support and tried to lessen the isolation as much as they could.
Yet, nothing he tried could carry him away from the pain. Ultimately, according to his family, Bryan ``just wanted the pain to stop.'' On May 2, 2011, he ended his own life, leaving his parents to read the following words he'd penned for them earlier.
Don't follow my starlight It goes well beyond and you must stay and drift away until you too are gone - Bryan Bower
I never knew Bryan, but his is the fourth Lyme-related fatality I've learned about recently. It makes my heart sick.
Wake up, America! Tick-borne diseases are stealing our children. While the medical establishment, insurance companies, and government health officials play politics and pretend that Lyme disease is no big deal, or worse - a complete sham - people like Bryan are abandoned by the institutions that are supposed to help them.
A speaker at the recent webinar on Lyme by the Centers for Disease Control made the astonishing assertion that long-term neuroborreliosis would eventually ``resolve'' on its own, without any treatment whatsoever.
Tell that to Bryan's heartbroken family. Tell that to untold thousands of Lyme patients who live with intractable pain and other unrelenting symptoms.
The loss of this young man makes me both sad and angry. We in the Lyme community owe it to Bryan and others like him, to channel such emotions into meaningful action. Tick-borne disease is taking a toll on our society that will not ``resolve'' on its own.
Click here to read Bryan's memorial page with some of his poetry.
The TOUCHED BY LYME blog is written by Dorothy Kupcha Leland, CALDA's VP for Education and Outreach. Contact her at [email protected].
Donna Marie 'Zak' Zakszeski of Beverly passed away Friday after bravely battling Lyme disease and breast cancer for several challenging years. She was 50.
Donna was a graduate of Burlington City High School, Class of 1978.
She went become a registered nurse, while settling in Maine.
Donna loved to read, learn new things, garden, the ocean, and practicing yoga.
Most of all, she loved her family.
She is survived by her children, Justin Spencer and his wife, Julie, Jennifer and her husband, Thomas Dunn, and Jordan Spencer (s/o Christopher Blake); their father, Rick Spencer; and by her siblings, Charles and his wife, Sharon, Scott and his wife, Linda, and Lynda Zakszeski (s/o Andrew Newsome), and Patricia Kramer and her husband, Kirk. She was extremely proud of her grandchildren, Cody, Chloe, Max, Casey, and Zak, due in November. Her many nieces and nephews, like all who knew her, loved, and admired Donna for the wonderful person and amazing woman that she was.
Donna now rests peacefully with her father, Charles; mother, Eleanor 'Ellie'; and brother, John 'Jack,' husband to Patricia R. Zakszeski.
Donna will be remembered most for her breathtaking smile and infectious laugh. She was beloved by those close to her and will be greatly missed.
The family invites friends to call at her viewing from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, at the Page Funeral Home, 302 E. Union St., Burlington.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to 'Community of Hope for Donna,' c/o29 Warren St., Beverly, NJ 08010.
Page Funeral Home, Burlington
Posts: 131 | From ontario | Registered: Oct 2010
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Fran A. Piazza-Parkinson, 54, of Scranton, died Aug. 1 at the Regional Hospital of Scranton after a 15-year battle with Lyme disease and other health complications.
Born on Oct. 12, 1956, in Buffalo, N.Y., she was the daughter of the late Anthony Sr. and JoAnn Kalinowski Piazza.
She was a graduate of Bishop Klonowski High School. Fran was a loving mother, sister and aunt. She was known for her kindness, generosity and her ability to bring a smile to everyone she knew. She enjoyed shopping, bingo and spending time with her friends and family. She will truly be missed by all who knew her.
Surviving are a son, Randy Anthony Piazza, at home; a brother, Anthony Piazza Jr. and wife, Nancy, Scranton; two sisters, Mary- Jo Sterling and husband, William, Scranton; and Gina M. Winger and husband, Frank, Allentown; five nephews, Michael Sterling, Las Vegas; Frank, Matthew and Joseph Winger, Allentown; and Danny Piazza, Scranton; a niece, Victoria Sterling, Scranton; a niece and goddaughter, Jessica Sterling, Scranton; aunts, uncles and cousins.
She was also preceded in death by many aunts and uncles.
Funeral services will be private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by the Nicholas Chomko Funeral Home, South Scranton.
Published in Scranton Times on August 14, 2011
-------------------- --Lymetutu-- Opinions, not medical advice! Posts: 96222 | From Texas | Registered: Feb 2001
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map1131
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 2022
posted
A young lady Tabatha(Tabby) Rhymers died here in Louisville, Ky in early August. She was the Fern Creek, Ky high school student who one day was healthy and then it all suddenly changed.
The medical team, family and news reporters were seeking advice for possible causes for her quickly detetiorating health. This story went out on national news broadcast.
Tabby had Lyme disease when she was 5 years old and was treated. Doctors didn't believe that past Lyme infection had anything to do with her sudden seizures, white lesions and destroying her young life.
Maybe someone else can pull up this sad sad story and post it here. I've tried and can't seem to pull what I need to do.
Thanks, Pam
-------------------- "Never, never, never, never, never give up" Winston Churchill Posts: 6478 | From Louisville, Ky | Registered: Jan 2002
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RHYMER, TABBATHA LEIGH, 17, of Fern Creek, beloved daughter of Juanita Rhymer Age and Robert Age, peacefully passed away Friday, August 5, 2011 surrounded by many who loved her.
She was to be a senior at Fern Creek High School.
Tabbatha was preceded in death by her loving father, Randy Rhymer; and grandfather, Louis Roederer.
Along with her parents, Juanita and Bobby, Tabby is survived by her grandparents, Bertha Roberts (Dennis) and Angie and Ford White; great-grandmother, Rose Roederer; brothers, Steve Ritchie, James Dylan; sisters, Nicole Roseanne and Jenna Lynn; stepsisters, Shelly and Elizabeth; fiance, Chad Kantlehner and a host of loving family and dear friends.
Funeral service will be conducted at noon on Tuesday at Schoppenhorst Underwood and Brooks Funeral Home (Preston Highway at Brooks Road) with burial in Highland Memory Gardens in Mt. Washington. Friends may pay their respects on Monday from 1-8 p.m. and after 9 a.m. Tuesday at Schoppenhorst.
The family wishes to sincerely thank Dr. Tarek M. Zakaria and the staff of Norton Brownsboro I.C.U., for their compassionate care of Tabby during her extended stay.
The family also wishes to thank all those who scheduled fundraisers, donated monies, time and prayers in hope of finding a cure for her.
Posts: 75 | From Missouri | Registered: Apr 2009
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Tincup
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 5829
posted
David Taylor
September 8, 2011
Notice from the York, PA Lyme Disease Support Group
We regret to inform you that a member of our support group has lost his battle with lyme disease. David Taylor, husband of Julie Taylor passed away on Tuesday morning September 6, 2011.
Viewing is schedule for Friday evening, September 9, 2011, 6:00 to 8:00pm at Eberly Funeral Home, 104 West Main Street, Dallastown, Pa, 17313.
The funeral will be held on Saturday morning, September 10, 2011 at 10:30 AM, at Bethlehem United Methodist Church, 109 East Main Street, Dallastown, PA. Burial will in Dallastown Union Cemetery.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Julie and family.
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Notice placed on Maryland website. York, PA is one of the "Mason-Dixon" support group listings. God bless David, his friends and family.
Tincup
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 5829
posted
Jay T. Wolfenden
Jay Thomas Wolfenden, 56, of Westminster, died Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2011, at Carroll Hospital Center. Born Jan. 12, 1955, in Baltimore.
He was the son of the late John Thomas and Shirley Leach Wolfenden. He worked at Shoppers in the seafood department.
He was an Eagle Scout with Troop No. 56 and was co-coordinator of the Central Maryland Lyme Disease Support Group.
He also was an avid fisherman, Ravens fan, and enjoyed cooking.
Surviving is a sister, Robin Ann Wolfenden, of Westminster.
A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday at Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery, 2716 Old Washington Road, Westminster, with the Rev. Marianne Sickles Grabowski officiating.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Carroll Hospice, 292 Stoner Ave., Westminster, MD 21157. Arrangements are by Pritts Funeral Home & Chapel in Westminster. Sign this guest book online atwww.carrollcountytimes.com
Published in Carroll County Times on August 21, 2011
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Jay was a long-time support group leader from Maryland.
He helped countless people over the years and was active in all aspects of Lyme disease education and prevention. His mother also passed away, several years ago, after suffering from chronic Lyme disease.
His sister Robin is co-founder of the group and has been a long time advocate for patients.
Our prayers go out for Jay, his family and friends. He will be missed, but not forgotten.
payne
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 26248
posted
The Lord is Our Shepherd... may we rest in a garden of Love, And have the sun shine on us forever. Cover US with "The Blood of Jesus Christ". Bless these families with comfort and faith to pick up where the fallen left off in rememberance of Great Things to Come. Passing the torch to those left behind. walk with them daily. And surely God has walked with you.
-------------------- TULAREMIA/rabbit fever ? Posts: 1931 | From mid-michigan | Registered: Jun 2010
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Tincup
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 5829
posted
Thank you, Tutu.
Posts: 431 | From New England | Registered: Dec 2011
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GretaM
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 40917
posted
Thank you Lymetoo.
Seeing Gonzo's name there teared me up again.
Here's his obit I found in the Hartford Courant.
Daniel S. Gonzalez, 56, of Plainville, passed away at his home, surrounded by his family, on Sunday, December 1, 2013.
He was the beloved husband of Ellen (Sloate) Gonzalez, with whom he shared 27 years of marriage.
Born in Bristol on October 19, 1957, he was one of eight children to the late Salvadore and Jean (Pinero) Gonzalez.
A lifelong resident of Plainville, he attended local schools, and raised his family there. Daniel enjoyed many outdoor activities, and had a passion for fishing, and was very proud of his record setting bass.
He enjoyed going to the beach, spending many days at Harkness State Park, was a car enthusiast, and fan of football, especially the New York Giants.
Above all, Daniel was a reliable family man, who could be counted on for help with any task, or for sharing his love of cooking one of his delicious homemade meals made with fresh vegetables from his backyard garden.
His sense of humor and big heart will be greatly missed, leaving his family and wide circle of friends with many cherished memories.
In addition to his wife, Ellen, he leaves his daughter, Heidi and her fiancé, David Fortier of Plainville; his sister, Judy Principi, her husband, Jim and their son, James of Burlington; his brothers, Frank, his wife, Cheryl and their children, Steven and Danielle of Plainville; Michael, his wife, Sheila and their children, Christen and Matthew of Plainville; Ed, his wife, Diane, and their children, Marissa and Ed of New Britain; Phil, his wife, Ivonne, and their children, Aaron, Andrew, and Tammy of Florida; Steven and his partner, Tim of Massachusetts; and John, his wife, Teresa, and their children, Christian, Grace, and Evan of New Britain. He also leaves his mother-in-law, Ruth Sloate; his brothers-in-law, Steven Sloate, his wife, Georgie and his special nephews, Matthew and Jeremy; and Mark Sloate, his wife, Meryl and their children, Heather and Andrew.
Visitation will be on Thursday evening, from 5-7 p.m. at Bailey Funeral Home, 48 Broad St, Plainville.
A memorial service in celebration Daniel's life will be held at the conclusion of the visitation, at 7 p.m. on Thursday. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family. For online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.Bailey-FuneralHome.com .
Published in The Hartford Courant on Dec. 3, 2013
Posts: 4358 | From British Columbia, Canada | Registered: Jun 2013
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map1131
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 2022
posted
Our dear lymenet friend, Bea lost her husband Steve Oct 2012. I'm attaching the thread for those that are new to lymenet and wonder about this wonderful woman, Bea that continues to fight the fight with us.
-------------------- "Never, never, never, never, never give up" Winston Churchill Posts: 6478 | From Louisville, Ky | Registered: Jan 2002
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A longtime activist who raised awareness about the dangers of Lyme disease in Manitoba has died.
Elizabeth Wood was 65.
Lorne Wood said in an interview from Emerson his wife died Thursday of a stroke she suffered late Wednesday night.
She leaves five children and 12 grandchildren.
Wood helped found a support group in Manitoba for Lyme disease sufferers more than two decades ago -- long before the tick-borne illness became a reportable disease in the province.
"The Lyme disease community in Canada has lost a very good ally," said Jim Wilson, president of the British Columbia-based Canadian Lyme Disease Foundation.
He said Wood fought tirelessly to get the Manitoba government to take the disease seriously and acknowledge it is under-reported in Manitoba.
Asked how successful advocates have been in this regard, he replied: "It's a work in progress."
Wood said in a 2011 interview she received a tick bite in July 1985 north of Emerson. She remembered having difficulty removing the insect.
When a rash appeared, a doctor told her she had poison ivy.
She later developed severe flu-like symptoms doctors now link to Lyme disease: head and muscle aches, joint pain, fatigue.
She continued to suffer the effects of the disease throughout her life.
Her insistence -- and that of many Lyme disease research advocates -- that the disease could persist for decades put her at odds with some in the medical community.
She spent thousands of dollars of her own money seeking a diagnosis and treatment in the United States.
"She could hold her own (in debate) with politicians, professors, scientists, doctors and anyone else," Wood said.
He said Wood fought tirelessly to get the Manitoba government to take the disease seriously and acknowledge it is under-reported in Manitoba.
A week before her death, she travelled to Ottawa to support a private member's bill by Green party MP Elizabeth May that would require the federal health minister to convene a conference of provincial and territorial health ministers, representatives of the medical community and patients' groups to develop a national strategy to address the challenges of recognition, timely diagnosis and treatment of Lyme disease.
The Opposition NDP and Liberals have expressed support for Bill C-442. The governing Conservatives have said they might support the bill if amendments are introduced that satisfy jurisdictional concerns.
A provincial Health Department spokeswoman issued a statement Monday that read, in part: "Through her unwavering dedication to this cause, she has raised awareness of this condition amongst the general public and within the medical community alike, helping us all to better understand the disease.
This dedicated advocacy has led to closer collaborative efforts between the Lyme and the health community, ensuring ongoing education, improved surveillance and advancing policy to ensure improved care is an option."
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She made a difference -- Good for her! We are still far away from proper medical treatment or acknowledgement of lyme disease in Canada.
poppy
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 5355
posted
I think a lot of deaths have been missed on this list. The ones that are known to be lyme, and the ones that die of stroke or heart attack that resulted from lyme. And then there are more suicides.
The recent published account of cardiac deaths that were only found because a transplant surgeon discovered them:
The first case described here was in a car accident, veered off the road after his heart stopped. I knew of another case like this in a local lyme person who was in a one car accident after he lost consciousness. His death was due to lyme, and I am not even sure if he was being treated. How many are there like this? Probably a lot.
Posts: 2888 | From USA | Registered: Mar 2004
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poppy
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 5355
posted
In Memory of Beverly Lynn Mooney April 21, 1980 - March 22, 2014
Obituary
Beverly Lynn Mooney, 33 years old, died on Saturday, March 22nd, 2014 at her home in Castle Rock, CO. Beverly's battle with Lyme Disease lasted over 4 years. Her strong will to live, unwavering faith in God and the love and prayers of family, friends and many supporters made It possible for Beverly to be a loving wife and to raise her two beautiful children, Ethan, 6 years old, and Makayla, 4 years old.
Beverly was born on April 21, 1980 and married David Mooney. She has three sisters, Deanice Zoltak and Deavina Ewert and she is predeceased by her beloved sister Lena Thompson Bell. She also leaves behind her nephews and niece, Brian Bell, Jonathon Thompson, Westley Thompson and Alice Thompson who she loved as if they were her brothers and sister.
The loss of someone so young leaves a deep hole in our hearts but we are comforted in knowing she is in the loving hands of Jesus Christ Our Savior and is reunited with her mother, June and sister Lena.
If anyone asks how I want to be remembered, please say the following about me:
A wonderful mother and wife who believed strongly in God. She loved being with her family and watching her children grow. She loved her fun, sad, hard and funny times with David…..especially how David could make her laugh. Beverly was always a lil crazy, she would do and say random things that would make you say hummmm. Some would be shocked, but those who knew Beverly wouldn't be shocked at all. She loved to dance and go out and have fun with her girlfriends. Beverly adored all children and was inspired to make a difference in the children of today…. Her ultimate dream was to teach in a Christian School where she could educate children in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
posted
Colleen, a worship pastor, and sister of radio personality Don on the Ron and Don show passes away from lyme disease. She looks young and vibrant in this picture in the link. Don was trying to help her get better but she passed away...
Colleen Katherine (O'Neill) Cawthon entered heaven singing and rejoicing on February 7, 2014. She was born on March 14,1970 in Waukegan, Illinois to Virginia "Ginny" (O'Neill) Edmund and John O'Neill. Colleen was the youngest of four children - brothers Jack O'Neill and Don O'Neill and sister Beth Ortega. The family moved to Albuquerque in 1978 where Colleen graduated Eldorado High School in 1988. She met and married the love of her life, Jaris at their local church and went on to have three amazing children, Annie 16, Sydney 13, and Dylan 6. Colleen, an amazingly talented singer and songwriter, used her voice to touch many lives, recording 2 praise and worship CDs with her church and 1 with her husband, and singing on many other recordings for other artists. Jesus Christ was her passion, and she served as a Worship Pastor in her local church, Believers Center of Albuquerque, for over 21 years along side her husband. She was completely devoted to her husband, children, church family, and all her extended family. Her laugh was absolutely contagious and could easily change the atmosphere of a room. Above all, her desire was to see God glorified in everything she set her hand to - her marriage, children, work, and friendships. Colleen’s life was a reflection of God’s love and joy. She fought a hard battle against Lyme disease and was an absolute champion. Colleen’s life celebration will be held Thursday February 13, 2014 at 6:30pm at Believers Center of Albuquerque, 320 Waterfall Dr. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87123. In lieu of flowers, an Education Fund has been started for Colleen’s children. Checks can be made out to Edward Jones Investing / The Cawthon Kids Education Fund, 4122 Factoria Blvd SE, Bellevue WA 98006. Credit card donations can be made over the phone to Lawrence Rude 425-644-6290.
Posts: 123 | From Washington State | Registered: Dec 2013
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posted
I believe Dr. Hynote died of sepsis from a Picc Line infection as she was treating Lyme Disease.
Dr. Eleanor Hynote died December 17, 2013 in Napa. She was born in Brookline, MA to Francis and Rita Dimento on June 21, 1957.
Dr. Hynote graduated from Brookline High School, Vassar College and UC Irvine School of Medicine. She opened her internal medicine and clinical nutrition practice in Napa in 1989. She enjoyed snow skiing, travel, the beach at Martha’s Vineyard and, most of all, her family. She devoted her professional life to the practice of medicine from with she received great gratification.
Dr. Hynote is survived by her husband Robert Hynote of Napa, Daughters Caroline, Julia and Olivia Hynote all of Napa; parents Francis and Rita Dimento of Boston; brothers James and Francis Dimento and sister Melissa Lang, all of Boston.
A funeral Mass will be held at Mont La Salle Chapel, 4405 Redwood Rd, Napa, CA 94558, on Saturday, December 21, 2013 at 10:00 am.
The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Dr. Hynote’s memory to organizations dedicated to infectious disease research.
Posts: 123 | From Washington State | Registered: Dec 2013
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Tincup
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 5829
lymie_in_md
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 14197
posted
I will deeply miss you Heather, rest in peace!
Heather Elizabeth Johnson . Johnson, Heather Elizabeth age 33, formerly of Edina, MN, passed away unexpectedly 7/26/14.Preceded in death by mother, Judith Askeland. Survived by father, Christopher Johnson; stepmother, Susan Johnson; stepfather, Paul Del Moral; stepbrother, Nick Everhart; stepsisters, Molly Wick, and Courtenay and Donna Del Moral; grandfather, Warren Askeland; and many aunts and uncles. God bless our beautiful artist, poet, musician and activist. Services will be held at 1 PM on Fri, Aug 15 at St. John the Evangelist Episcopal Church, 60 Kent St., St. Paul. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials for continued humanitarian work including helping others affected by Lyme disease to "Morningstar Mercy Ministries," 165 E. Crumb St., Gilman, WI 54433.
Published on August 10, 2014
-------------------- Bob Posts: 2150 | From Maryland | Registered: Dec 2007
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Tincup
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
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posted
It is with deep sorrow I share this announcement about a wonderful lady who left us much too soon.
“I don’t want anybody else to go through what I’ve been through. If I could just prevent one person from having these problems, then it’s worth it.”
Dr. Lis Heininger
Our dear friend, Lis Heininger, founder of the Corning-Finger Lakes Lyme Disease Association in New York, passed away at home on Monday, September 29, 2014. Passing at the age of 48, she leaves behind her loving parents, her dear husband Andy, and a very devoted teen-age daughter, Marisa.
For those who didn't know Lis, she was a wonderfully brilliant lady and long time volunteer Lyme patient advocate who worked with many people over the years to assist them with their Lyme-related issues.
Lis spent the earlier part of her life (over 30 years) undiagnosed and untreated for Lyme disease. The first indication Lyme disease might have been the source of the various growing symptoms she experienced appeared at a very young age when she had a strange rash after camping with her family in New England.
Her symptoms began increasing in number and impacted her more over the next few years. As a gymnast, volley ball, tennis and track team member, she became concerned when her eye sight began to fail. She went on to develop numbness in her limbs and was eventually diagnosed, or mis-diagnosed, with MS.
For the twenty years Lis was told she had MS (multiple sclerosis) she was treated unsuccessfully by various physicians for a condition she did not have. As a national spokesperson dedicated to educating people on the affects of MS, she was considered a favorite "poster child" by those in the MS movement. She spent countless hours speaking to national and international audiences. Unfortunately, when she informed them of her new diagnosis, like others that have been correctly diagnosed after years of having an inaccurate MS diagnosis, she was shunned and ignored by the very people she loved and worked so hard to assist.
Once correctly diagnosed with chronic Lyme disease Lis was treated with long term antibiotics and began to improve. Unfortunately, she was in the late chronic stages of Lyme disease at that point in time and the damage that occurred prior to receiving appropriate treatment was only partially addressed. But, Lis improved as time went by and she was determined to not give up!
Lis worked tirelessly to spread Lyme disease awareness for the past decade and made many friends in the Lyme community along the way. She brought in doctors and other experts to speak at programs for local community groups. She was a guest speaker at the Corning Community College's presentation of Under Our Skin, a college where Lis once worked as a grant director for the Early Childhood Professional Development Center.
Lis actively helped with legislation designed to improve the situation for other Lyme patients. She had an extensive email distribution list and stayed up-to-date on the latest research. Many will remember Lis rolling around (and goofing around) in her wheel chair, always with a smile on her face, while attending various Lyme disease conferences over the years. She had a wonderful sense of humor and never missed the opportunity to share a funny joke.
Several years ago Phyllis Mervine of LymeDisease.org (formerly CALDA) organized an effort to collect donations to help pay for in-home nursing care for Lis while her family was at work and school. Lis, under the care of the local health department, had fallen out of her wheelchair and had to spend time in the hospital.
As a result of the accident she suffered more neurological damage; however, she was overwhelmed by the kind and generous people in the Lyme community who supported her and she truly appreciated their efforts.
Our hearts are heavy and we are filled with sadness over the loss of such a dear lady. We will pray for comfort for all of her friends and family, all the while knowing in our hearts she has finally made it to heaven where she is now dancing and singing with the angels.
Memorial Services
Phillips Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 17 West Pulteney Street, Corning, NY 14830 on Thursday, October 2, 2014 from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The funeral service will be at Grace United Methodist Church, 191 Bridge Street in Corning, on Friday, October 3, 2014 at 11:00 am. A committal service for the family will follow at Chapel Knoll and they will return to the church for a luncheon.
With flower arrangements in place, the family asks that memorial gifts in Lis' honor be directed to a scholarship fund for Lis's daughter, Marisa. Checks may be made payable to: Andrew Heininger, at P.O. Box 1272, Corning, NY.
posted
Leslie Feinberg, died on Nov. 15 at her home in Syracuse. She was 65.The cause was “complications from multiple tick-borne co-infections, including Lyme disease.”
Tincup
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
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Wennihan, Bailee 1996-2016
May 27, 2016
Wennihan, Bailee 1996-2016
GOWER, Mo. Bailee Shennen Jontee Wennihan, 20, Gower, passed away Tuesday, May 24, 2016, in Farmers Branch, Texas, as a result of West Nile and Lyme Disease.
She was born on January 9, 1996, in North Kansas City, Missouri.
Bailee Shennen Jontee graduated from East Buchanan High School. She truly enjoyed school and music. She wrote many songs and enjoyed playing the violin. Bailee loved playing basketball, traveling, was a wonderful artist and photographer.
Her life was dedicated to serving God and she lived each day with an abundance of faith. She was able to forgive and go on with laughter, love and kindness. Her motto was Laugh as much as you breathe and love as much as you live.
Bailee Shennen Jontee was preceded in death by: her great-grandmother, Nadine Cline; and uncle, Johnny Gatewood.
She is survived by: her brother, Padrick Wennihan; mother, Gina Gatewood-Griffin; NaNa, Teena Marks; great-grandfather, Gene Cline; uncles, Tommy and Steve Cusick; grandfather John Gatewood Sr.; cousins, Lauren, Carson Nadine, and Amber; other relatives and many, many friends.
Funeral service: 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 31,at First Baptist Church, in Gower.
Burial: Dearborn Cemetery.
Visitation: 6-8 p.m. Monday, at the church.
Arrangements: Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Gower. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.
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Heather Elizabeth Johnson . Johnson, Heather Elizabeth age 33, formerly of Edina, MN, passed away unexpectedly 7/26/14.Preceded in death by mother, Judith Askeland. Survived by father, Christopher Johnson; stepmother, Susan Johnson; stepfather, Paul Del Moral; stepbrother, Nick Everhart; stepsisters, Molly Wick, and Courtenay and Donna Del Moral; grandfather, Warren Askeland; and many aunts and uncles. God bless our beautiful artist, poet, musician and activist. Services will be held at 1 PM on Fri, Aug 15 at St. John the Evangelist Episcopal Church, 60 Kent St., St. Paul. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials for continued humanitarian work including helping others affected by Lyme disease to "Morningstar Mercy Ministries," 165 E. Crumb St., Gilman, WI 54433. 
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