Introduction: In this powerful episode, Tick Boot Camp Podcast Rich Johannesen and special guest co-host Dan Wagner welcome Lyme disease survivor and advocate Sophia Denison. Dan shares insights on his new Global Lyme Alliance-sponsored podcast, Lyme Plus, which he co-hosts with Kenzie Vath, where they spotlight essential information from doctors and researchers in the Lyme disease field. Rich then introduces Sophia, an inspiring young leader in the Lyme disease community, whose journey of resilience has fueled her advocacy efforts. Sophia’s Advocacy and Community Engagement: Sophia Denison recounts her transformative journey from Lyme disease patient to a leading activist. Now fully recovered, she dedicates herself to raising awareness and empowering others. As an ambassador for the Global Lyme Alliance, she has organized community events, including a screening of The Quiet Epidemic documentary on her college campus. She discusses how storytelling opens up powerful dialogues and fosters empathy, helping others understand the struggles of Lyme disease sufferers. Sophia’s Early Life and Initial Symptoms: Growing up in Barrington, Illinois, Sophia was an active child who participated in sports and triathlons. However, at age seven, she began experiencing unexplainable symptoms, including intense stomach pain, weight loss, and severe anxiety. Her symptoms were initially misdiagnosed as gastrointestinal issues and anxiety, which delayed her Lyme diagnosis for over a decade. The Challenges of College and Escalating Symptoms: Upon starting college, Sophia's symptoms intensified. She faced body pain, fatigue, and unusual neurological episodes like uncontrollable laughing and crying. Balancing academic demands while sharing facilities with other students added to her stress and exacerbated her symptoms. Despite seeking help from specialists, her symptoms were often dismissed as stress-related. Sophia’s Search for a Diagnosis and the Role of IGeneX Testing: Sophia recalls the emotional toll of visiting multiple specialists, only to be told her symptoms were "all in her head." Desperate for answers, she decided to undergo a Lyme test with IGeneX. With encouragement from her best friend and neighbor, Lulu, who shared her own Lyme story, Sophia pursued testing that finally confirmed her suspicions. Discovering a Treatment Path in Germany: Sophia sought treatment at Klinik St. Georg in Bad Aibling, Germany. There, she underwent treatments including whole-body hyperthermia, blood ozone therapy, and detoxification therapies. The intensive treatment program helped Sophia begin her journey toward health, though it was a difficult path both emotionally and physically. Building a Personalized Toolbox for Recovery: Recovery for Sophia meant building a personalized "toolbox" of health strategies. Today, she maintains her health through supplements, a balanced diet, regular movement, and stress management. She emphasizes listening to her body, and understanding its needs has allowed her to reconnect with herself and rebuild her life. Lessons Learned and Empowering Advice for the Lyme Community: Sophia’s key advice to others is to trust that their symptoms are real. By tuning into her body's signals and understanding its resilience, she was able to shift her perspective on Lyme disease. Sophia encourages patients to see their bodies as allies and lean into their strength through the journey. Her recovery serves as a beacon of hope for Lyme patients, demonstrating that healing is possible. Action Items and Future Goals: Sophia is committed to her work with the Global Lyme Alliance and other organizations to connect Lyme patients with Lyme-literate healthcare providers. By sharing her experiences, she hopes to continue empowering others and raising awareness of Lyme disease. Conclusion: This episode offers a hopeful message for Lyme sufferers worldwide. Sophia Denison’s journey from illness to advocacy serves as a reminder that recovery is achievable, and her story encourages listeners to trust their instincts, seek proper care, and find a supportive community.
