When did your journey with Lyme begin?
I have dealt with symptoms for as long as I can remember, since I was in elementary school, but it wasn’t until I went off to college that I began collecting experiencing illness to the extent that it disrupted my life.
What was the turning point for you in your journey, when you discovered that there is hope for healing?
When I was finally diagnose with Lyme in 2012, it was such affirmation that the crazy symptoms I experienced were in fact real and not just in my head, as I had been told so many times before. Getting a diagnosis was scary, but once I knew what was going on inside my body, it gave me hope to find a treatment that would work for me.
What has been the biggest healing tool you’ve utilized in your strive for health?
Without a doubt, the most important thing I’ve learned throughout this ordeal is that a positive mind set and a non-defeatist attitude can get you a long way. Don’t get me wrong, I still have days where I break down emotionally, but in general I try not to allow feelings of anger, frustration, and hopelessness linger for very long. I find that speaking positive affirmations during my day helps me to get through my days, moment by moment if needed.
In addition to this, I’ve learned that asking for help, being gentle with my ailing body, and living with a posture of gratitude are vital to me wellbeing.
What’s one thing you wish others knew about living with Lyme Disease?
I just want people to have more compassion for things they don’t understand in general. To be patient with one another and to offer understanding and an ear to listen.
What’s one thing you wish you could tell individuals who have just been diagnosed?
Research as much as you can (but for goodness sake, don’t drive yourself crazy!) Find a doctor who supports you both emotionally and physically. Don’t give up, true healing takes time.
What’s been your biggest obstacle in your healing, and how are you choosing to manage it now?
I’m still in the throes of healing from this illness. I believe that pain is the biggest obstacle I’ve had to deal with, although there have been many. For the past three years, I have had to use a wheelchair in various capacities. It’s a necessity for my life right now, and I don’t feel bad or embarrassed about needing to use it anymore. Some other ways that I manage pain are: detox baths twice per day, peppermint essential oil, and coffee enemas.
What are your hopes and dreams for your healthy future?
Oh there are so many. I want to marry my best friend (who has been an unimaginably patient, humble, and loving partner throughout my healing journey), travel lots, lay on the grass, climb mountains, swim in oceans, write poems, and live in as many places as possible.
Kayla Denny | Joy Rises
