posted
I just ran into someone in my neighborhood who has Lyme. He is happy with his current doctor, but has not been tested for co-infections. He still has alot of fatigue. I told him he might have babesiosis. Would you who are patients of Dr. C's please tell him why he should make an appointment with him? Thanks....I know you'll do a great job....better than I could!! Posts: 96239 | From Texas | Registered: Feb 2001
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momtoeight
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posted
HE KNOWS HIS STUFF He believes you He cares about us He is one of those strong silent types He is a Christian He quietly thinks before answering in a very deliberate manner. He is funny. He desn't make you feel stupid. He answers all questions He listens to my husbands rambling He convinced my son that he would get better He asked a lab to do a test for us at no cost He is helping to get our pediatrician on board He goes to seminars and follows new research
MAN, I COULD GO ON FOREVER! Now do you want to know about his staff? DITTO
So good of you lymetoo to help your neighbor! You are one in a million! Love, Janie
Posts: 2344 | From middle of nowhere | Registered: Feb 2002
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posted
He makes you feel like he has all the time in the world just for you.
He sides with your spouse and picks on you..oh wait..that's not the kind of stuff you wanted to hear. Hahhaa.
Nothing is to 'weird' to tell him. I think he's only laughed at me once! Hahaha.
I think he's the greatest. I've never met a doctor like him...here or when I lived in Canada.
DT
Posts: 1044 | From Missouri, USA | Registered: Apr 2001
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just don
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Member # 1129
posted
Dear Lymetoo's neighbor, You are missing the important link in this disease,"THE RIGHT DOC". What I like about Dr. C is he gave me back MY life, when I thought all was lost including ME. I didnt have to go cemetery lot shopping and head stone selecting, instead I can look forward to life this week!! I am actually looking foward to spring here now instead of dreading just plodding through. I havent felt this good in 8-10 years!! And if I wouldnt have gone to Dr. C I would still be in that deep dark cave of life, if thats what you can call life. I didnt care for it then, but now it has a sparkle that only coming from the depths of despair I can appreciate it. PLEASE DONT WALK, "RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN" to his office and do it right. You only get one life, use it!!!!!!!
Posts: 4548 | From Middle of midwest | Registered: May 2001
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I went to Dr. C on a very strong recommendation my hero, just don! I had a lenghtly talk one evening with him. Dr. C should be giving him commissions! I cannot wait until he sees this post, he will fill it up for us, so I have to get my words in so he does not "rain on my parade"!
The knowledge this man carries in incredible! His honesty about the disease is one I had never heard from any of the other doctors I had seen. He is a man with much integrity.
He thinks he has heard it all until you come with another symptom. I told him when I was so sick, even my finger nails hurt! He laughed, said that was a "new" one, wrote it down and shook his head! It was a great moment and......did not doubt me! (they really did not hurt!)
You can call anytime with questions or problems. He always answers the questions with the concern that a doctor should have. I have gotten my answers promptly, I did not wait for 3 days for a call back!
He believes in you! More than I can say for the other 30 ducks that I seen. He doubts nothing. He even told me that some of the things I have told him do not make sense on paper, but.......he has had other patients tell him the same thing......he believes it, he said with this disease, anything is possible!
The encouragement he gives is incredible! His excitment is overwhelming! I had a phone consultation with him 2 weeks ago. He was so excited about the progress I had made, he was more excited than I was! I guess I made more progress than I thought!
He is excited about you. He is concerned for your health. He is concerned for you.
In closing of this long post, the one thing that has stuck out in my mind was a statement he made to me the first time we met.
"I will not promise I can cure you, but I will give it my best shot. I know you have seen 31 other doctors with this disease. I am number 32 and I will be the last."
He restored my self confidence and gave me a new lease on life!
Janell
Posts: 919 | From Minnesota | Registered: Jan 2001
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posted
I believe he saved my life I would be in a wheelchair now if it was'nt for the Great Dr.C He makes you feel so much better I went into his office really depressed and came out so confident that I was going to kick this disease.This was very hard for me because I've never beeb sick in my life till April 15th 2001 TAX DAY and TICK DAY..... A day I will never forget... Kathy YOU NEED TOO LISTEN TO EVERYBODY HERE AND MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
Posts: 821 | From nashville tn usa | Registered: Sep 2001
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just don
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 1129
posted
I forgot the most important point. Dr. C has seen well in excess of 700 lyme patients(if I can count those here that Have gone since, make that closer to 800) Do you take your car to a mechanic whose first day was yesterday and read about it in a book. OR some guy who has done it for years and is WELL experienced? Still not convinced? If you look in a mirror do you see a suicidal person there? I didnt think you were!! Leave Russian roulette to the others, take the safe way. If after one visit you dont agree, then dont go back. Make the first visit and then make your choice. After all you have to be close to his office. How would you like to be 400-600-800 miles away and still HAVE to go there. Count your blessings and Dr. C will be among them if you let him.--just don--
Posts: 4548 | From Middle of midwest | Registered: May 2001
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posted
What else can I add? He has helped me when no one else would. I owe him more than money. Don't wait any longer talk to the man. But try too keep your praises at a low level,we need to keep him around and not end up like Doc B. Call today,it will be best phone call you will ever make. Appleseed
Posts: 269 | From Wi USA | Registered: Oct 2000
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momtoeight
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Member # 2215
posted
Once he told me to look in the mirror and tell my self that I was gettin better. Not just think it but say it out loud. That this would really help. You know it does help. I also know that he believes that we will get better. Ahh-the power of positive thinkin and a positive doc. Reading back through these posts I see a positive tone runnin through them. Did you get that from anywhere else that you have gone? I know that we haven't. I hope that you make the decision to go. You deserve it. My family will be thinkin of ya. Much wellness to you, Love, Janie
Posts: 2344 | From middle of nowhere | Registered: Feb 2002
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blue
Unregistered
posted
Husband sees DR C., has helped him much, how far down has any of you gotten? how long before seen improvement? hubby stared sept 11, first visit, easy dated to remeber, unfortunetly!Also any one else live in Mo, where I could take to on the phone , or please e-mail me [email protected]
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posted
Y'all are a pretty powerful bunch!! Somebody's been giving you power drinks or something!! Been drinking Dr. C's fruit smoothies??!! Yum, those are good! OK, I'm gonna print this out and take it over to my fellow-sufferer today. Thanks to everyone! If someone else comes along wanting to post their bit, go ahead and I'll take it to him later. Posts: 96239 | From Texas | Registered: Feb 2001
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posted
Oh wait..I think I remembered something else. Oh crap, I think I just forgot it too.
Ok..I remember again! Hahhaha!
My duck *cough cough* told me that he had actually been in Doctor school with our good Dr. He also said that if there's a chance to beat LD, then I have the right doc looking after me. He told me that our Doc was the first physician in Missouri to ever diagnos LD. However, our Doc does not remember my duck. Hahhaha (First impression mean a lot, ha!)
DT
Posts: 1044 | From Missouri, USA | Registered: Apr 2001
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quote:Originally posted by dt: ..... He also said that if there's a chance to beat LD, then I have the right doc looking after me. He told me that our Doc was the first physician in Missouri to ever diagnos LD.
posted
Well, I feel like the last one on the boat here but I just got back to work after my appointment with the great Dr. C. I have been recuperating the last 2 days from the 9 hour drive. Everyone is right on about Dr.C. He is so kind and understanding but not condescending. He listens.After I left the exam room on Monday he came up behind me and said "DOn't get discouraged, don't give up- you will be better, I promise." I left feeling light as a feather, I know I will get better but something in the way he says it makes you know you will. I don't know if that makes sense to anyone else but me. Question for Blue--- Is Lebanon the exit where they sell the walnut bowls???? SHeila
Posts: 379 | From WI | Registered: May 2001
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momtoeight
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
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posted
Sheila, Great news! I'm soooooo glad for ya!
Did ya see the post by daybyday on medical! Dr. C. is reachin out to help another doc become LL and to help this doc's family! I am so proud of our GREAT doc. HOORAY!
And Sheila yes you will get better! Take care, Janie
------------------
Posts: 2344 | From middle of nowhere | Registered: Feb 2002
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posted
Cool, Sheila! Sounds like it was a long trip indeed!! But worth it, of course. I know what you mean about not being condescending. That's it exactly....and it makes a difference. It's genuine caring, not mushiness!
posted
He's just wonderful. I would either be dead or in a wheelchair right now if it wasn't for him. I got to meet his wife and daughters, and they were just plain old down to earth people. His wonderful staff personally introduced me by name to his wife. His staff also made the time to introduce him to my husband and son this last time. In fact, he is going to treat my husband at my next appointment. My husband has problems with blood clots and has almost died a couple of times (he goes to the V.A.) Dr. C. is going to give him the test and maybe treat him with heparin. One of the reasons my husband loves him, is because he is a Veteran, and my husband doesn't even have lyme. Maybe we should remember to send him a card on Veteran's Day! Another thing, he didn't even charge me for my blood work this last time. He certainly can't be making any money off of me. He works with me, even though I don't have insurance.
Posts: 890 | From West Frankfort, IL | Registered: May 2001
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posted
BTW, my neighbor is seeing the good doc and is doing very well!!
Posts: 96239 | From Texas | Registered: Feb 2001
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troutscout
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Member # 3121
posted
top it Posts: 5262 | From North East Iowa | Registered: Sep 2002
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rosesisland2000
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Member # 2001
posted
I just realized that I hadn't posted here about Dr. C since I saw him.
I really like the idea that he allows those of us who are really far from him to work with our local doctors on getting our blood work done.
The fact that he doesn't insist on return visits every month or so, really helps those of us who can't travel that far that often.
That shows to me he is more concerned about the patient getting treatment than the dollars in his pocket.
Now that's refreshing.
Really, I enjoyed my visit with him and his handouts are the best explainations.
By him allowing us "distant patients" to work locally with our reg PCP's (if we have one who is understanding), then he is giving a chance that more reg docs will recognize LD with future patients with it and thereby educating more doc about this disease and how hard it is to treat.
Well, in addition of what I said in an earlier post, I get to go on a little vacation at least twice a year! The best part about this is my sister is in Kansas so I get to see her so much more than ever before! All kinds of little benefits to this disease....hahaha.....
Posts: 919 | From Minnesota | Registered: Jan 2001
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troutscout
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posted
I would also like to add that he has a plethera of info for the patient. It is a shame that his info isn't posted anywhere on this site. We have Dr B's info....luckily. But to offer Dr C's would be an incredible addition.
Trout Scout
Posts: 5262 | From North East Iowa | Registered: Sep 2002
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rosesisland2000
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posted
to the top for new member looking for LLMD.
Posts: 6191 | From Arkansas | Registered: Jan 2002
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once bitten
Unregistered
posted
Wow this is positive.... Could someone email me Dr C's input on Lyme and all? [email protected] I go to Dr B (live close enough) and he is great. But it is also good and I need to hear some positive things right now. Also for those with problems travelling call airlifeline at 1 877 air life pilots volunteer to fly you to medical appts.They use small planes but it sure makes a long trip short. Terri
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rosesisland2000
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to the top for new members to see
Posts: 6191 | From Arkansas | Registered: Jan 2002
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troutscout
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posted
Just adding that Dr C is a GREAT man.
Trout
Posts: 5262 | From North East Iowa | Registered: Sep 2002
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map1131
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posted
While driving into Springfield Mo last month I hit scan on my stereo and the first station it stops at, I hear this voice and I immediately know it is my good doctors voice talking about heparin and the many uses today.
He actually does a call in show every Monday pm to help educate people about pain mgmt. He wants people to know you don't have to live your life in pain, there are many alternatives out there. Pain is a symptom and you need to find the cause of that.
What a wonderful doctor. I was really impressed by the show and told him so the next day during my appointment. I hope those of you close to Springfield are listening every Monday. TuTu? Any others? Pam
Posts: 6495 | From Louisville, Ky | Registered: Jan 2002
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posted
hey map!Thanks for the reminder! Today is Monday and I will tune in! I usually forget to do so.
About 2 months ago I remembered to tune in and I surprised him with a call on the radio! I just thanked him for his care. I think I embarrassed him a bit! He's so humble!
He said, "I promise I didn't put ***** up to this!"
The next time I was in his office, Rose said they heard me call and thought it was great.
You know, it's time for another get together in doc's honor.....anybody game??
------------------ oops! Lymetutu
[This message has been edited by Lymetoo (edited 28 July 2003).]
posted
I'm a little late, but I wanted to add my praises also about Dr. C. Most everything has already been well said in honor of our most wonderful LLMD, and I agree... we simply can't praise him enough!
When I walk in the office a little down, it never lasts because he quickly builds you back up, and you leave there knowing you will get well. He truly is terrific!
I actually look forward to my office visits with him, and I usually walk in loaded with questions. Dr. C answers them all before I leave.
Do make that appointment with him quickly...and you'll be on the road to wellness. He wants you well...that's his goal for you.
Each patient gets his undivided attention. The staff is equally as terrific.
There is no finer LLMD. That's my story and I'm stickin' to it!!!
I just read all the replys on Dr. C in Missouri and I am also a patient of his since September of 2000. The first visit I had with him he even prayed for me. That was a first doctor that ever done that and it really impressed. His encouragement is fantastic. He is totally honest with you also. I would like to hear from some lyme patients that are having head, neck and shoulder problems. I have so much pressure in my head it is scarry. My bones are also beginning to hurt. I have swelling in my face, neck and shoulders. This is the first time I have shared this and I hope someone can give me some advice on what helps them. Thanks Margaret Castellaw
Posts: 3 | From Friendship, TN USA | Registered: Aug 2003
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posted
I am proud and honored to report that I have been under this man's care since December of 2001.
I am now off of all of my meds for 7 weeks as of today!
I have not "fired" him yet because I am not sure what is going to happen just yet, but I FEEL WONDERFUL!
Is there hope? YES!
Does he know what he is doing? YES!
Would I have a life without him? NO!
Do I give him all the credit? YES/NO!
I have been working in combination with Dr. Crist and some natural stuff. I truly believe that it is a combination of the two, which Dr. Crist also encourages, balancing the body, has contributed to my "success so far"!
Would I recommend him? ABSOLUTELY! Without him, I honestly do not think I would be here today!
Dr. Crist, keep up the good work, hard studies and the faith and belief you have in these people and God!
Together, we will all win!
God Bless You!
JJ
Posts: 919 | From Minnesota | Registered: Jan 2001
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posted
Maybe I could shift the focus of this thread slightely but I was reading what he said about hypercoagulation and wondered if his interest in that is one of the things that marks him out from other LLMD's?
hypercoagulation Hypercoagulation, or thrombophilia, may be defined as a greater tendency than normal for blood to coagulate, or clot. Of approximately 500 borreliosis patients that I have tested, 90 percent have hypercoagulation. Comparatively, only five percent of the general healthy population has hypercoagulation.
Two major aspects of hypercoagulation are infections and hereditary or genetic abnormalities. Chronic infections such as borreliosis, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, human herpes virus 6 and mycoplasma have all been associated with hypercoagulation. These infections appear to be the driving force behind the greater tendency to form blood clots. Infections may elevate levels of fibrinogen, fibrin, thrombin/antithrombin complexes, fragment 1+2, and Factor II (prothrombin) activity.
When you get a cut, the fibrinogen in your blood converts into fibrin, which in turn forms a mesh to create a blood clot to help stop the bleeding. Antithrombin binds to thrombin to form a complex to prevent thrombin from causing blood to clot. Antithrombin protects against too much clotting, when it binds thrombin.
When thrombin is forming a clot it produces fragment 1+2. Prothrombin (Factor II) converts into thrombin, which causes blood to clot. When these coagulation components are high, it indicates that the blood has a greater tendency to clot.
Inherited or genetic disorders may also predispose to blood clotting. Some of these hereditary defects include antithrombin activity deficiency, protein C activity deficiency, protein S activity deficiency, Factor II gene mutation, APC resistance (Activated Protein C resistance is also called Factor V Leiden deficiency), elevated lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a), elevated PAI-1 (Plasminogen Activator Inhibiter-1), and elevated homocysteine. Hereditary hypercoagulation test panels are abnormal in 74 percent of borreliosis patients, as opposed to about two to five percent of the general healthy population.
Treatment for hypercoagulation caused by infections is heparin, which is a blood thinner. Typically, heparin is given subcutaneously (under the skin) by injection twice a day in low doses for not more than nine months. It can also be compounded into a troche that dissolves in the mouth, but that is usually more expensive and is often less effective than injections.
Symptoms that improve with heparin are pain, fatigue, cognitive problems and neurological problems. About 80 percent of borreliosis patients feel better with heparin, and it has been a safe treatment so far. (One patient did develop bleeding from the rectum, but then a colonoscopy revealed a colon cancer that had not yet spread to the local lymph nodes. In other words, the heparin unmasked a hidden malignancy, so in this case the side effect was a blessing.)
Heparin is not only a blood thinner, it is also anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and may even be anti-cancer (unproven). Therapy with heparin usually lowers the level of the coagulation components fibrinogen, fibrin, thrombin/antithrombin complexes, fragment 1+2 and Factor II activity. This is desirable, because elevated levels of these coagulation components can cause decreased capillary blood flow, if they are high enough. Capillaries are microscopic blood vessels that are about eight microns wide. A normal red blood cell, which travels through the capillaries, is about seven microns wide. When elevation of coagulation components occur, they could conceivably attach to the inside surface (endothelial surface) of capillaries, thereby narrowing them. For example, fibrinogen attached to the inside surface could make it harder for a seven-micron-wide red blood cell to squeeze through the narrowed capillary. Reduced blood flow in capillaries would in turn reduce oxygen and nutrients, and reduce removal of toxins from tissues. It stands to reason that if heparin could improve blood flow, antibiotics and hormones would be more effective because they could pass through capillaries easier.
Life is in the blood. Less blood flow means less "life," and possibly more symptoms and diseases -- perhaps even death.
Hypercoagulation is associated with other chronic diseases, not just borreliosis. It is my opinion that how hypercoagulation is treated will become a paradigm shift in medicine, once further research has been accomplished.
back to Borreliosis
� 2003 Dr. Charles L. Crist, MD. All Rights Reserved.
posted
Could someone please send me the contact information for Dr. C.? I am needing to get to a Dr. who's going to help me. I seem to be just getting worse, after just over 2 years of treatment.
A lady friend of mine would probably come with me. Is there a place closeby to stay that doesn't cost a fortune?
Thanks in advance and God Bless Us All,
Pam
Posts: 339 | From mountains of Va. USA | Registered: May 2002
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Hope all these beautiful accolades will be copied and placedin a lovely binder to take to him.
He deserves to have these as a tribute to his care and dedication to all of you.
I have not had the priviledge of meeting him, but my sister, Chocolat, sees him and thinks the same as all of you. She's on her way to visit me arriving tomorrow so she doesn't know about this post.
I'll show her when she gets here and she can reply with her thoughts about this wonderful physician who obviousely believes the oath he took, "to do no harm"
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