Helping Friends With Lyme

Hi friends and family,

As many of you know, I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease and related co-infections about 8 months ago. It's been an interesting journey since then. Every day is different, some days are good and others not so much. Lately, things have been looking up, which is a nice change. I've found a Lyme Literate Dr. who is estimating that my treatment will last 1-2 years. One of the most frustrating things about Lyme Disease is the political battle surrounding the diagnosis and treatment of Lyme. The short story is that because of some poorly written guidelines most Lyme patients must pay for their Lyme literate Drs. and treatment out of pocket. In 2009, we spent over $4500 out of pocket, on medical expenses. With me not working, that's been a challenge. I'm so thankful for Emiliano's support through all of this and so glad that our insurance is covering prescriptions so far. Many friends have also stepped up and offered financial support which helped cover a lot in the beginnng. However, i'm not the only one who needs support.


Recently, my good friends Jeff and Janine Jones have also been diagnosed with Lyme and an assortment of co-infections. They are currently looking for a Lyme literate Dr. as mine is not accepting any new patients at this time. They are happy to finally understand what has been ailing them for so long and daunted by the sudden onslought of medical tests, Dr. fees, and prescription costs they will soon face. They currently do not have health insurance and will be paying for everything out of pocket even prescriptions, for both of them.

We've decided to raise funds for the three of us by hosting a 2 weekend yard sale/ Awareness Event. March 26-27 we'll be at my house on Darwin St. in the Seabright Area of Santa Cruz. Then we'll take all the left overs to their house and give it a second go round April 23-24th. I'm hoping that we can raise enough $ to send them both to a Lyme Literate Dr.

You can help us out by donating your unwanted items to our yard sale. Whatever you were going to take to good will please send it our way instead. Every little bit of help means a lot for us so, thank you for what you have already done and for what you may do to support all of us in the future. It means a lot.

To find out more about my journey with Lyme Disease check out my blog.

You can also support our cause by shopping with String Bean Studios on etsy or at local craft faires. Check out the String Bean Studios Blog for date and events.

For more information about Lyme Disease visit www.lymedisease.org

Thank you for your friendship, understanding, and support.

Keri