Kaitlin's Fight with Lyme Disease
UPDATE:
After seeing the specialist in September, Kaitlin (name changed to protect privacy) continued on the recommended antibiotics for a full course. These antibiotics were also prescribed to help fight a co infection Kaitlin contracted, called Bartonella.
Kaitlin’s health improved significantly as a result of the antibiotic course, and it was decided, in conjunction with her doctor, to try a less aggressive treatment going forward. Extended antibiotic use can have detrimental effects, and therefore it made the most sense to try something less invasive.
After some trial and error, Kaitlin began a treatment with tinctures; however, only a week into this treatment, she began to relapse. The treatment was halted, and blood tests have been carried out in order to check on her organ function. If possible, Kaitlin will be put back onto antibiotics.
All of the blood work, tinctures, antibiotics etc. are costing Kaitlin’s family money out of pocket, and these costs are adding up once again.
We are once again asking for a little bit of help to support Kaitlin’s family during this difficult time. Any help is greatly appreciated, we want Kaitlin to get back to her healthy, happy self again!
ORIGINAL STORY:
This bright-eyed one and a half year old is Kaitlin (name changed for privacy). While visiting Ontario this summerKaitlin was bitten by a tick and, unfortunately, contracted Lyme disease. Luckily Kaitlin was diagnosed and began treatment early on, and she is expected to make a full recovery.
However, due to the complexity of treating Lyme disease, coupled with its relative rarity, the costs for Kaitlin's treatment have begun to add up. Specialized treatment at this time is crucial to ensuring that Kaitlin gets relief from an array of symptoms - including rash, fever, chills, fatigue, and diarrhea - which may worsen over time; in addition to potentially worsening current symptoms, more serious symptoms can also arise, including those related to neurological, pulmonary, and cardiac decline, if Lyme is not treated properly.
Kaitlin is scheduled to travel with her mother inter-provincially in late September to see a specialist who will be able to help her get effective, timely treatment. The out of pocket costs of this specialized care includes consultation fees, accommodations, and the possibility of further lab tests.
As a single mother of two, who is beginning full-time studies in September, Kaitlin's mother is struggling to find a way to cover these various costs. At this time we are seeking help to cover the cost of the consultation, travel, and accommodations, as these are guaranteed costs associated with Kaitlin's ongoing treatment. We may seek further assistance in the future as part of this campaign, if the reality of more lab tests does arise.
We appreciate any help you can provide to ensure Kaitlin gets adequate and effective care. 
