October 23, 2004

A Strong Constitution

Actually - most lab tests return with negative results! Lyme has a multitude of ways to hide from the body's natural immune system and ways to hide even from antibiotics.

It is a disease that is "clinically diagnosed". Meaning that it is described by symptoms - joint pain, severe neurological disturbances, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, and a long, long list of other problems. I was clinically diagnosed as not having Lyme because - my interpretation - I just didn't have enough symptoms! (There's that "atypical" Laureen again.) And the reason - again, my interpretation - is that I have a strong constitution! That's right - genetically, I am strong enough to be able to fight many of the borrelia's attacks. It just seems that some people are genetically stronger in the face of this disease. I am so grateful that I am not so much worse.

There are people who are so miserably sick. I have recently exchanged emails with a woman who is taking care of her 26 year old daughter who has had Lyme for 14 years and has been bedridden for 7 years. I believe I should count my blessings.

Posted by Laureen on October 23, 2004 4:29 PM