My Story

Hi! I am Kathryn, I am 29 years old and I have been suffering from a debilitating invisible chronic illness for more than 2 years. After being told I had Lupus, or possibly Rheumatoid Arthritis I agreed to a blood test. It came back negative and I was then referred to a psychiatrist. Many blood tests later I finally had an answer: Lyme Disease, Babesiosis and Bartonella. My titers were so high I was even considered positive according to strict CDC standards. I was relieved to hear this, after all Lyme disease is very easy to cure...right?

Unfortunately so much time had passed between transmission and diagnosis, the bacteria had disseminated and crossed into my brain. I now have late stage (also known as Chronic) Lyme Disease. I would also soon find that Lyme Disease is incredibly controversial and despite strong medical and scientific evidence to the contrary, the Infectious Disease Society of America (IDSA) denies the existence of Lyme disease that persists after 28 days of antibiotic treatment. The IDSA is who insurance companies listen to when it comes to covering treatment. The Social Security Administration also follows their guidelines when reviewing applications for disability. 

Before I became sick, I had a promising career in the Film Industry. I had done research for movies that are now in theaters. I also sat in the writers room and helped craft the first 6 episodes of a TV show that will debut in March. I spent my free time volunteering with children and at homeless shelters. I conducted fundraisers to help victims of Human Trafficking. I played the violin and had an organic garden. 

I also loved hiking and backpacking and would try to hike as much as possible on the weekends. Symptomatic but not yet diagnosed, I completed a 144.7 mile section hike of the Pacific Crest Trail. Those that hiked with me can attest to the fact that something was wrong. It has always been a dream of mine to complete a thru hike (2,650 miles) of the Pacific Crest Trail. 

In February of 2011 my illness became so severe that I had no choice but to quit my job. I immediately filed for Social Security Disability and went on temporary disability in the meantime. Despite treatment, I seemed to be steadily getting more and more sick. It became clear that my particular case was beyond the knowledge of my Dr and after making a few calls, I became the patient of one of the top Lyme Dr's in the Country. By the time I had my first appointment with him, I was a complete mess. Here is a list of my symptoms:

Severe joint, bone and muscle pain (8 out of 10)

Brain Fog

Memory Loss (I routinely forget simple things like my phone number or where I live)

Seizures

Stroke Symptoms

Tachycardia

Migraines

Severe Fatigue

Depression and Suicidal fantasies

Tremors in the hands and legs

Digestive issues

Hair loss

Panic attacks

The list goes on...

In June I had a minor surgery where they placed a port-a-cath in my chest. I now am able to do home IV infusions. I do up to three infusions of various medications a day. An alarm is constantly going off to remind me to take a medication or supplement. I spend most of my time in bed, unable to move. Right before Christmas I was hospitalized  as I could not walk, my legs had become too weak and the pain too great. I left the hospital with a walker. 

The Impact

I am trying to raise funds for treatment because I lost my appeal with Social Security Disability. Despite letters from several Dr's and tests that prove my dire medical situation, SSDI has determined that I am not disabled. I am awaiting a hearing where I will go before a judge and plead my case. They are so backlogged I must wait up to a year for my court date. 

My temporary disability ran out in August and I have gone through my savings trying to keep a roof over my head, insurance paid and treatment covered. 

I can no longer do this alone - I need your help!

At this time I face losing my health insurance, homelessness and ultimately leaving treatment for a curable disease. Without treatment I will continue to get worse. Without treatment this disease can be fatal. 

What You Can Do

With your help, I can pay for my health insurance, medications and ultimately get my life back. Even a contribution of $1 will add up. Please help me get my life back!

Other Ways You Can Help

Please help my campaign reach as many people as possible. Please share my campaign via twitter, facebook or even email. 

For more information about Lyme Disease please visit www.lymedisease.org or www.ilads.org