Tick Boot Camp

Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen
  • 5.0 (79)
  • Alternative Health
  • Updated Daily

Tick Boot Camp is a Lyme disease and tick-borne illness podcast featuring interviews with leading doctors, researchers, scientists, patients, advocates, and experts. Explore Lyme disease symptoms, testing, diagnosis, treatment, recovery, chronic Lyme disease, coinfections, PANS/PANDAS, MCAS, neurological symptoms, emerging research, and the latest advances in tick-borne disease care. Through expert education and powerful patient stories, Tick Boot Camp provides hope, validation, practical information, and a community for people navigating Lyme disease and complex chronic illness.

  1. 11h ago

    Ending Chronic Illness: Dr. Richard Horowitz’s Revolutionary New Program to Reverse Inflammation and Heal Persistent Disease

    For more than four decades, Dr. Richard Horowitz has challenged conventional thinking about chronic illness. His work treating more than 13,000 chronically ill patients has led to one of the most influential clinical frameworks in Lyme disease medicine: MSIDS® (Multiple Systemic Infectious Disease Syndrome). Now, in his groundbreaking new book, Ending Chronic Illness: A Revolutionary New Program to Reverse Inflammation and Heal Persistent Disease, Dr. Horowitz expands that framework far beyond Lyme disease. He presents a bold new model suggesting that many of today's most common chronic illnesses—including Alzheimer's disease, Long COVID, autoimmune disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome, cardiovascular disease, autism spectrum disorders, psychiatric illness, and cancer—share common inflammatory pathways and root causes that can be identified and addressed. In this exclusive Tick Boot Camp interview, Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen spend more than two hours taking a deep dive into Dr. Horowitz's latest work, exploring the science behind chronic inflammation, the evolution of his MSIDS model, his precision medicine approach to healing, and why he believes medicine must shift from treating symptoms to identifying the multiple factors keeping patients sick. Whether you're living with Lyme disease, another chronic illness, or simply want to understand the future of personalized medicine, this conversation offers one of the most comprehensive discussions Dr. Horowitz has ever shared. You can purchase Ending Chronic Illness: A Revolutionary New Program to Reverse Inflammation and Heal Persistent Disease on Amazon Meet Dr. Richard Horowitz Dr. Richard Horowitz is a board-certified internist, internationally recognized Lyme disease specialist, researcher, educator, and New York Times bestselling author. After beginning his medical career as a traditional internist, he found himself practicing in one of the country's earliest Lyme disease epicenters in New York's Hudson Valley. Over the past 40+ years, Dr. Horowitz has become one of the world's leading clinicians treating chronic Lyme disease and complex chronic illness. His clinical experience treating more than 13,000 patients led him to develop the MSIDS model, a comprehensive framework that looks beyond a single diagnosis to identify multiple overlapping factors driving persistent illness. His previous books, Why Can't I Get Better? and How Can I Get Better?, transformed how many physicians and patients approach chronic Lyme disease. His newest book expands that framework to virtually every major chronic disease. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why Dr. Horowitz Believes Chronic Disease Needs a New Model Rather than viewing illnesses as isolated diagnoses, Dr. Horowitz argues that chronic diseases often share common inflammatory drivers. He explains why treating a diagnosis alone frequently fails while identifying multiple underlying causes can dramatically improve outcomes. Understanding the MSIDS Model The conversation explores the evolution of MSIDS (Multiple Systemic Infectious Disease Syndrome), which identifies sixteen overlapping contributors to chronic illness. The six primary "drivers of inflammation" include: Chronic infections Environmental toxins Microbiome dysfunction Leaky gut and food sensitivities Vitamin and mineral deficiencies Sleep disorders Dr. Horowitz explains how these root causes create widespread inflammation that then produces additional downstream effects throughout the body. The Three I's: Infection, Inflammation, and Immunity One of the interview's central themes is Dr. Horowitz's "Three I's" framework. He explains how: Persistent infections trigger inflammation Chronic inflammation damages immune function Impaired immunity allows additional infections to thrive Breaking this cycle, he argues, is essential for long-term recovery. Chronic Inflammation: The Common Thread A major focus of the discussion is inflammation. Dr. Horowitz explains why inflammation—not simply infection—may be the underlying mechanism connecting: Lyme disease Long COVID Alzheimer's disease Autoimmune disorders Mood disorders Chronic fatigue syndrome Cardiovascular disease Cancer Autism spectrum disorders The 16 Inflammatory Pathways Building upon the MSIDS model, Dr. Horowitz discusses sixteen major inflammatory pathways that regulate immune function and chronic disease. He explains how pathways such as NF-κB, NRF2, the NLRP3 inflammasome, and prostaglandin signaling interact to sustain inflammation and why targeting these pathways may improve outcomes across numerous diseases. Precision Medicine Instead of One-Size-Fits-All Care Rather than treating everyone identically, Dr. Horowitz advocates for personalized medicine. Every patient presents a unique combination of infections, environmental exposures, immune dysfunction, nutritional deficiencies, hormone imbalances, mitochondrial dysfunction, and other contributing factors. The goal is to identify each person's unique inflammatory burden and systematically remove the factors preventing recovery. Dapsone Combination Therapy Dr. Horowitz explains how years of clinical experience led to the development of his Dapsone Combination Therapy protocols. The discussion covers: Persister bacteria and biofilms Combination antibiotic strategies Reducing Herxheimer reactions Supporting detoxification Managing treatment side effects The importance of antioxidants, probiotics, methylfolate, glutathione, and other supportive therapies He emphasizes that successful treatment involves much more than simply prescribing Dapsone. Lyme Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, and Neuroinflammation The interview also explores Dr. Horowitz's recent work investigating Lyme disease and Alzheimer's disease. He discusses how chronic infections, environmental toxins, and neuroinflammation may contribute to cognitive decline and why reducing inflammation may become an important future direction for neurodegenerative disease research. Emotional Trauma and Chronic Illness Drawing from Chapter 3 of his new book, Dr. Horowitz discusses the biological impact of trauma and chronic stress. He explains why unresolved trauma, limbic system dysfunction, and chronic stress physiology can perpetuate inflammation and why healing often requires addressing both physical and emotional health. Environmental Toxicity Chapter 4 of the book examines the growing role of environmental toxins. Dr. Horowitz discusses: Mold exposure Heavy metals Air pollution Plastics and endocrine disruptors Pesticides Water quality He argues that modern environmental exposures contribute significantly to chronic inflammation and should be evaluated as part of any comprehensive treatment plan. Prevention Matters Although much of the discussion centers on treating chronic illness, Dr. Horowitz emphasizes prevention. He shares many of the lifestyle practices he personally follows, including: Anti-inflammatory nutrition Exercise Sleep optimization Stress reduction Detoxification support Targeted supplementation Reducing environmental toxin exposure His message is simple: protecting health before illness develops may be just as important as treating disease after it appears. Key Takeaways Chronic illness often results from multiple overlapping causes rather than a single diagnosis Inflammation may be the common biological mechanism connecting many seemingly unrelated diseases. The MSIDS model provides a practical framework for identifying and treating these underlying contributors Personalized precision medicine may offer better outcomes than symptom-focused treatment alone Addressing infections, toxins, gut health, nutrition, sleep, immune dysfunction, and emotional health together may dramatically improve recovery Prevention through lifestyle and inflammation reduction should become a central focus of modern medicine. Why This Episode Matters For decades, Dr. Richard Horowitz has challenged traditional assumptions about chronic disease. In Ending Chronic Illness: A Revolutionary New Program to Reverse Inflammation and Heal Persistent Disease, he brings together thousands of patient experiences, years of clinical research, and an evolving understanding of inflammation into one comprehensive roadmap for patients and physicians alike. Whether you agree with every conclusion or simply want to better understand one of today's most influential voices in integrative medicine, this conversation offers an extraordinary look at how the future of chronic illness care may evolve. If you or someone you love is navigating Lyme disease, Long COVID, autoimmune illness, chronic fatigue, persistent inflammation, or another complex chronic condition, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

  2. 1d ago

    Lyme Disease Treatment at Sanoviv: Personalized Healing – Dr. Francisco Ulloa | LIVE from ILADS

    Can a multidisciplinary approach to Lyme disease treatment help patients better understand their illness, develop individualized treatment plans, and build a foundation for long-term recovery? In this LIVE from ILADS interview, Tick Boot Camp co-host Rich sits down with Dr. Francisco Ulloa, MD of Sanoviv Medical Institute in Mexico to explore the clinic's approach to integrative Lyme disease treatment, functional medicine, precision-oriented care, and patient education. Recorded at the 2025 International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) Conference in San Antonio, Texas, the conversation offers an inside look at how Sanoviv brings together physicians, nutritionists, psychologists, and other specialists to evaluate patients and develop coordinated treatment strategies. With approximately 17 years of experience at Sanoviv, Dr. Ulloa explains why he believes treating complex chronic illness requires understanding the individual patient, not simply following a standardized protocol. Rich and Dr. Ulloa also discuss the emotional challenges of chronic illness, the relationship between conventional and functional medicine, and why the habits patients develop during treatment may be important after returning home. For people researching Lyme disease treatment options in Mexico, this interview provides insight into Sanoviv's clinical philosophy, patient evaluation process, and residential care experience. About Dr. Francisco Ulloa, MD Originally from Mexico, Dr. Francisco Ulloa studied and worked in Guadalajara before joining Sanoviv Medical Institute. He first learned about the facility approximately 20 years before this interview through a professional relationship between Sanoviv and the university where he worked. During his initial visit, he was impressed by the environment and its approach to healthcare. He hoped to eventually become part of the medical team. Approximately two years later, he received an invitation to join the institute. By the time of this interview, Dr. Ulloa had spent approximately 17 years working at Sanoviv. His clinical philosophy emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, functional medicine, individualized medical planning, and helping patients understand their health. He believes one of the institute's greatest strengths is bringing healthcare professionals from different disciplines together to evaluate complex cases and coordinate patient care. What Makes Sanoviv's Approach to Lyme Disease Different? Located in Rosarito Beach, Baja California, Mexico, Sanoviv Medical Institute offers residential integrative medical programs for patients with a variety of health concerns, including Lyme disease and associated conditions. Dr. Ulloa describes Sanoviv as a functional medicine clinic built around collaboration among multiple healthcare disciplines. Rather than having patients visit specialists independently and attempt to coordinate recommendations themselves, the institute brings those professionals together within one facility. Its team includes medical doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, chiropractors, kinesiologists, fitness professionals, and biological dentistry specialists. Dr. Ulloa explains that the clinic's physicians have training associated with the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM). Patients typically spend several weeks at the facility, although some extend their stays depending on medical needs, personal goals, and financial circumstances. During that time, the team works to understand each patient's medical history, evaluate current health concerns, and develop a coordinated plan. How the Multidisciplinary Evaluation Process Works One of the most revealing parts of the interview is Dr. Ulloa's description of Sanoviv's medical meetings. When patients arrive, different members of the clinical team evaluate their cases from their respective professional perspectives. The team then meets to discuss findings, compare observations, and determine treatment priorities. Dr. Ulloa explains that the most important issue to address first may not always be the symptom the patient finds most troubling. This is where collaboration becomes particularly valuable. Instead of making decisions based on one professional's perspective, the team considers the patient's broader medical circumstances. Rich describes this as a precision-oriented approach to medicine, where the treatment strategy is developed around the individual rather than applying the same protocol to everyone. Why Lyme Disease Treatment May Need to Be Individualized Dr. Ulloa emphasizes that people with Lyme disease can have very different medical histories, symptoms, and treatment needs. He discusses several factors that may influence the clinical picture, including immune system function, genetics, underlying health conditions, previous treatments, and individual susceptibility. His philosophy is that clinicians should evaluate these differences when developing a treatment strategy. For some patients, this may mean addressing sleep disturbances, nutritional concerns, physical limitations, or other diagnosed medical conditions alongside appropriate treatment for Lyme disease. Dr. Ulloa believes the goal should be to understand the patient as a whole rather than focusing exclusively on one symptom. This approach is especially relevant to people experiencing complex or persistent symptoms who may benefit from coordinated evaluation across multiple medical specialties. Importantly, Lyme disease is caused by infection with Borrelia bacteria. Individualized supportive care does not replace evidence-based diagnosis or appropriate antibiotic treatment. The Power of Helping Patients Understand Their Medical History Dr. Ulloa identifies patient education as one of the most meaningful aspects of the Sanoviv experience. People living with complicated chronic illnesses may arrive after years of searching for explanations. Some have consulted numerous healthcare professionals, undergone extensive testing, or tried multiple treatments without achieving the improvement they hoped for. Dr. Ulloa explains that the medical team works to review each patient's history and communicate its findings in a way the patient can understand. During the first weeks of treatment, patients may interact frequently with physicians and other specialists. These conversations provide opportunities to understand treatment recommendations, discuss priorities, and ask questions. Dr. Ulloa describes how meaningful it can be when a medical team helps patients make sense of their health history. For people who have struggled to feel heard or understood, having their experiences carefully evaluated can provide validation and a clearer path forward. Emotional Support, Hope, and Chronic Illness Rich asks Dr. Ulloa about the relationship between emotional well-being and the treatment experience. Chronic illness can affect much more than physical health. Patients may face uncertainty about their future, changes in employment, financial pressure, disrupted relationships, and the emotional exhaustion of navigating ongoing symptoms. Dr. Ulloa explains that psychological support is an important part of Sanoviv's multidisciplinary approach. He believes clinicians should recognize the emotional challenges associated with illness while helping patients understand their treatment options. The conversation also explores the importance of hope. When patients have experienced years of setbacks, a coordinated medical plan and supportive clinical environment may help them feel more confident about the future. However, emotional outlook does not determine whether someone will recover from Lyme disease. Patients should never be blamed for persistent symptoms or made to feel that they have failed because improvement has been difficult. Hope is most meaningful when accompanied by appropriate medical care, honest communication, and realistic expectations. Why Lifestyle Education Is Central to the Sanoviv Experience A major theme of this interview is what happens after a patient leaves a residential treatment program. Rich raises the concern that some people may expect an intensive medical experience to resolve their health challenges without requiring any changes to their everyday routines. Dr. Ulloa explains that Sanoviv emphasizes lifestyle education because the institute wants patients to continue applying what they learn after returning home. The discussion includes nutrition, sleep, physical activity, emotional well-being, and maintaining appropriate health practices. Dr. Ulloa believes these factors can influence general health and a patient's ability to manage certain medical conditions. He also acknowledges that not every patient is equally interested in a lifestyle-oriented approach. Some people seek a quick intervention, while others are willing to participate in a more comprehensive program. His goal is to help patients understand the reasoning behind recommendations so they can make informed decisions about their ongoing care. Lifestyle changes may support overall wellness and symptom management, but Lyme disease is an infectious illness—not a consequence of unhealthy habits—and these measures are not substitutes for appropriate medical treatment. Can Conventional Medicine and Functional Medicine Work Together? Dr. Ulloa challenges the idea that patients must choose exclusively between pharmaceutical medicine and complementary approaches. He describes encountering people with strongly held beliefs about different types of treatment. Some prefer to avoid prescription medications, while others are skeptical of nutritional or lifestyle-based interventions. His approach is to consider the available options according to the patient's clinical needs. He provides an example involving someone with longstanding sleep difficulties who may benefit from carefully selected short-term medication while ot

  3. 2d ago

    From Wheelchair to Lyme Remission – Dr. Kristi Hellenbrand | LIVE from ILADS

    What happens when a healthcare professional suddenly loses the ability to walk, struggles to get answers from major medical institutions, and is told Lyme disease doesn't exist where she lives? In this LIVE from ILADS interview, Tick Boot Camp welcomes Dr. Kristi Hellenbrand, DC, a Georgia chiropractor, Lyme disease survivor, author of Let Me Tell You a Secret…She Makes It: A Lyme Survival Story, and Global Lyme Alliance ambassador. In the fall of 2020, Kristi experienced a devastating neurological decline. Within approximately 60 days, she could no longer walk. Migraines, tremors, memory problems, and episodes of disorientation followed. Despite evaluations at major medical institutions, she struggled to obtain a clear explanation for her symptoms. She recalls being told she might have multiple sclerosis and hearing that Lyme disease wasn't a concern in Georgia. Eventually, a local functional medicine physician helped her pursue a different treatment approach. Kristi reports achieving remission in 2021. But her journey didn't end with medical treatment. She also had to rebuild her physical health, process the grief of losing her chiropractic practice, navigate the emotional consequences of chronic illness, and discover a new purpose through Lyme disease education and advocacy. Her story offers a message for people who feel overwhelmed by their diagnosis: Healing is possible, and someone else's recovery story may help you discover questions, resources, and approaches worth exploring with your own healthcare team. When Lyme Disease Changes Everything in 60 Days Before becoming a Lyme disease advocate, Kristi was a practicing chiropractor, mother, wife, and horse owner living south of Atlanta, Georgia. Then, in 2020, her health rapidly deteriorated. Within approximately two months, she lost the ability to walk. Her neurological symptoms included: Severe migraines Tremors Memory lapses Cognitive dysfunction Disorientation in familiar surroundings Significant mobility impairment At one point, she became lost only two miles from home. Kristi describes the fear of watching her body and brain change while struggling to find a physician who could explain what was happening. Her experience became particularly frustrating when she was told that Lyme disease wasn't found in Georgia. For Kristi, the lack of answers became almost as frightening as the symptoms themselves. When a Healthcare Professional Becomes the Patient As a chiropractor, Kristi was already familiar with healthcare. But that didn't make navigating her own unexplained illness easy. She sought evaluations from major medical institutions, including Emory, Piedmont, and Mayo. According to Kristi, those encounters did not produce a clear diagnosis or treatment plan that resolved her illness. She ultimately connected with a local functional medicine physician who was willing to investigate Lyme disease as a possible explanation. That experience reinforced something frequently discussed on Tick Boot Camp: Patients with complicated symptoms need clinicians who listen, investigate, and remain curious when the first explanation doesn't fit. For more information about diagnostic challenges, explore Tick Boot Camp's Lyme disease testing resources. The Treatment Journey: Double-Dose Dapsone Kristi describes pursuing an intensive treatment approach influenced by research from Dr. Richard Horowitz, a physician known for his work with Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. She specifically discusses the double-dose dapsone protocol. Although Kristi did not personally treat with Dr. Horowitz, she and her physician reviewed his published work and incorporated a related approach into her treatment. Kristi recalls that the protocol was challenging and that her physician was initially apprehensive about using such an intensive strategy. Nevertheless, Kristi reports that this period of treatment became an important turning point in her recovery. Her experience is a personal account, not evidence that double-dose dapsone is appropriate or effective for everyone. Dapsone-based multidrug protocols can involve significant medical risks and require careful clinical oversight. Learn more about these approaches through Tick Boot Camp's interviews with Dr. Richard Horowitz. Why Kristi Wrote Let Me Tell You a Secret…She Makes It Kristi's illness forced her to become a student of Lyme disease. While bedridden, she read extensively about the infection, associated conditions, available treatments, and recovery. She remembers needing approximately 20 books simply to begin understanding the basics. That experience inspired an important question: Why should every newly diagnosed patient have to do all this research alone? Her answer was to write a book that combines a personal recovery memoir with practical Lyme disease education. Let Me Tell You a Secret…She Makes It: A Lyme Survival Story was published in 2023. Kristi explains that the book includes educational sections addressing topics such as: Understanding Lyme disease Tick-borne co-infections Treatment options Navigating medical care Financial challenges Finding help Supporting the body during recovery Emotional health and grief Family relationships Rebuilding life after serious illness She began writing before she knew how her own story would end. Originally, part of her motivation was to preserve the experience for her children. Over time, the project became something larger: a resource for other patients and their families. Learn more about Kristi's book and advocacy through Lyme Lives Here. Learning the Language of Lyme Disease Rich and Kristi discuss one of the biggest challenges facing newly diagnosed patients: Lyme disease comes with an unfamiliar vocabulary. Suddenly, patients may be hearing terms such as: Borrelia Bartonella Babesia Co-infections Neuroborreliosis Biofilms Dapsone Herxheimer reactions Nervous-system regulation Rehabilitation Remission Understanding these terms can help patients communicate more effectively with healthcare professionals and evaluate the information they encounter. Kristi designed her memoir to help shorten that learning curve. Rich connects her educational approach with Tick Boot Camp's Tick Bite Blueprint, a resource developed to help people understand practical steps following a tick bite. Putting Out the Fire vs. Rebuilding the Body One of Kristi's central recovery concepts is distinguishing between addressing the active illness and rebuilding afterward. She describes the initial phase of treatment as putting out the fire. Once she felt the immediate crisis had been addressed, she shifted her attention toward rehabilitation. Kristi discusses working on: Digestive health Physical recovery Neurological symptoms Cognitive function Nutrition Emotional health Nervous-system regulation Her perspective is that treatment and rehabilitation are related but not necessarily identical phases. The body may need continued support even after the most severe symptoms improve. This leads to one of the interview's most important connections with Tick Boot Camp's broader healing framework. The Four Phases of Lyme Recovery Rich shares Tick Boot Camp's four-phase model, developed from recurring themes in patient recovery interviews. 1. Prehabilitation Preparing and supporting the body before intensive treatment. 2. Assist Supporting the immune system and addressing microbial burden through an individualized medical plan. 3. Rehabilitation Rebuilding physical, neurological, and functional capacity. 4. Maintenance Developing sustainable habits, monitoring health, and reducing the risk of future tick-borne infections. Kristi recognizes elements of all four phases in her own experience. The conversation illustrates how recovery may involve much more than a single treatment protocol. It also emphasizes that this is a framework for understanding recovery stories, not a universal medical sequence that every patient must follow. The Grief of Losing Your Former Life One of the most emotionally powerful parts of the conversation involves grief. Kristi didn't simply lose physical function. She also lost parts of her identity and independence. She was forced to close her chiropractic practice. She could no longer participate in many of the activities she loved. Her horses remained in the pasture while she recovered. Her children took on additional responsibilities. Her husband helped shoulder the financial burden. Kristi remembers experiencing denial, anger, sadness, loneliness, and fear. She describes the profound isolation that can accompany serious chronic illness, especially when someone feels their life is disappearing piece by piece. Her memoir explores these emotions openly. It also gives family members and caregivers an opportunity to better understand what a loved one may be experiencing. Why Caregivers Need to Hear These Stories Kristi explains that some readers have passed her book to spouses, relatives, and other caregivers. That has become one of its unexpected benefits. Someone living with Lyme disease may struggle to explain the full experience of losing mobility, employment, independence, or hope. A memoir can help communicate those experiences. Kristi's husband initially found the book difficult to read because he had lived through the events alongside her. For other families, however, reading her story has helped open conversations about illness and caregiving. Chronic illness affects the entire family, even when only one person has the diagnosis. Anger, Grief & Finding Hope Kristi is open about the role anger played in her journey. At one point, frustration with her declining health became a powerful motivation to pursue treatment. But she also describes eventually moving toward a quieter emotional place. Her experience wasn't simply about fighting harder. It involved grieving what she had

  4. 3d ago

    Lymphatic Drainage, Lyme Disease & Flowpresso – Freddie Kimmel | LIVE from ILADS

    Could supporting the lymphatic system help people living with Lyme disease feel better, sleep more comfortably, and improve their overall well-being? In this LIVE from ILADS interview, Tick Boot Camp welcomes back Freddie Kimmel, Lyme disease and metastatic cancer survivor, wellness technology educator, host of the Beautifully Broken Podcast, and representative of Flowpresso, for a fascinating conversation about lymphatic drainage, nervous system regulation, infrared heat, compression therapy, and emerging technologies being explored for recovery and wellness. Rich reconnects with Freddie at the 2025 ILADS Conference nearly five years after their original Tick Boot Camp interview. This time, Freddie introduces a technology that has become an important part of his professional work: Flowpresso, a full-body system combining sequential compression, heat, and deep-pressure stimulation. Rich also shares his firsthand experience after trying the device at the conference. He describes feeling deeply relaxed during the session, struggling to stay awake because of how comfortable he felt, and experiencing an unusually restful night of sleep afterward. For patients navigating Lyme disease, persistent fatigue, limited mobility, sleep disturbances, and other complex symptoms, the conversation raises important questions about the role supportive wellness technologies might play alongside individualized medical care. The central question: Can supporting circulation, relaxation, and lymphatic function become another useful part of a comprehensive Lyme disease recovery plan? Freddie Kimmel Returns to Tick Boot Camp Freddie Kimmel is no stranger to the Lyme disease community. A survivor of Lyme disease, metastatic cancer, and mold-related health challenges, Freddie has spent years exploring the intersection of chronic illness, functional health, emerging technology, and personal transformation. His original Tick Boot Camp appearance introduced listeners to his remarkable journey through serious illness and recovery. Listen to Episode 162: The Lyme Polymath – An Interview with Freddie Kimmel to hear his personal story. Since that conversation, Freddie has relocated from New York to Austin, Texas, where he has developed a wellness-focused community and continues exploring technologies intended to support health and recovery. During this interview, he explains that his mission is to help people become healthier versions of themselves by combining information, technology, and practical knowledge. One of the technologies that captured his attention is Flowpresso. What Is Flowpresso? Flowpresso is a full-body therapeutic system developed by New Zealand lymphatic specialist and entrepreneur Desiree De Spong. The system combines three primary components: Sequential compression: Inflatable chambers apply pressure to different parts of the body in a coordinated sequence. Thermotherapy: Integrated heating elements provide warmth during treatment. Deep-pressure stimulation: The full-body garment creates a gentle, enveloping pressure sensation intended to promote comfort and relaxation. Freddie describes the experience as being wrapped in a warm, comforting hug. Unlike smaller compression devices that primarily target the legs, Flowpresso uses multiple garment sections covering the feet, legs, abdomen, arms, and portions of the upper body. A typical session lasts approximately 40 minutes. Flowpresso is marketed as an FDA-cleared Class II medical device intended for use under licensed healthcare practitioner supervision and within its cleared indications. FDA clearance does not establish that Flowpresso treats Lyme disease, eliminates infections, or cures chronic illness. Meet Flowpresso Founder Desiree De Spong Freddie explains that his involvement with Flowpresso began after meeting Desiree De Spong through a mutual connection. Desiree is a New Zealand-based lymphatic specialist, educator, and founder of Flowpresso. Her background includes extensive experience in lymphatic health and therapeutic approaches involving compression and manual lymphatic techniques. Freddie recalls their first conversation lasting approximately an hour. He describes an immediate connection based on their shared interest in wellness, technology, and helping people navigate difficult health challenges. That relationship eventually developed into a professional collaboration. Today, Freddie helps introduce Flowpresso to practitioners, clinics, and wellness communities. Learn more about the Flowpresso team and its founder. Understanding the Lymphatic System One of the most educational parts of this conversation focuses on a body system that often receives less attention than the heart, brain, or digestive tract. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, lymph nodes, and organs that helps maintain fluid balance, transport certain fats, and support immune function. It collects excess fluid from tissues and returns that fluid to the bloodstream. It also plays an important role in immune surveillance. Lymph nodes contain immune cells that help recognize and respond to potentially harmful substances and infectious organisms. Freddie compares the lymphatic system to a waste-management network that helps the body process material moving through tissues. Although this analogy is useful for understanding some lymphatic functions, the lymphatic system is not a general-purpose detoxification machine, and increasing lymph flow has not been shown to eliminate Lyme bacteria or other infections. Why Movement Matters for Lymphatic Flow Unlike the cardiovascular system, which relies on the heart to circulate blood, the lymphatic system does not have one central pump. Lymph movement is supported by several mechanisms, including: Skeletal muscle contractions Breathing-related pressure changes Contractions within lymphatic vessels One-way valves that help direct fluid movement Normal physical activity Freddie explains that walking, standing, squatting, and other movements can contribute to lymph circulation. This becomes especially relevant when discussing patients with severe fatigue or limited mobility. Some people living with Lyme disease or other chronic illnesses may spend extended periods resting or may be unable to tolerate ordinary exercise. The discussion explores whether supportive therapies could offer additional options for certain patients. However, activity must be adapted to each person's medical condition and physical capacity. Patients with significant exercise intolerance, post-exertional symptom exacerbation, or other limitations may need specialized guidance rather than simply increasing movement. Can Lymphatic Support Help Bedridden Lyme Patients? Rich asks Freddie an important question: What options might exist for people who are too sick to walk or exercise regularly? Freddie explains that Flowpresso provides externally applied sequential compression while the person remains reclined. Rather than requiring the patient to actively contract muscles throughout the session, the device applies pressure through inflatable garment sections. This may be of interest to clinicians evaluating appropriate supportive care for people with mobility limitations. However, there is currently insufficient evidence to conclude that Flowpresso improves Lyme disease outcomes, treats persistent infection, or accelerates recovery from Lyme disease. Compression therapy also has medical contraindications and may be inappropriate for some patients. Anyone considering this technology should consult a qualified healthcare professional, particularly if they have cardiovascular disease, blood-clotting concerns, significant swelling, neuropathy, or other complex medical conditions. How Flowpresso's Sequential Compression Works Freddie describes the Flowpresso system as a series of connected garment sections and inflatable chambers. The chambers are positioned around different areas of the body. During a session, they inflate and release in a coordinated pattern. Freddie compares the process to gently squeezing a tube of toothpaste from one end toward the other. The device uses overlapping compression chambers designed to create a progressive pressure wave. According to Freddie, this wave moves through the system repeatedly during treatment. The intent is to encourage fluid movement and provide a rhythmic, soothing sensation. Sequential pneumatic compression is an established technology used in certain medical settings, including management of selected circulation and swelling conditions. Whether a particular device is appropriate depends on its cleared indications, the patient's condition, and the clinician's assessment. Infrared Heat and Thermotherapy Another feature of Flowpresso is integrated heat. Freddie explains that the device uses warming elements within the garment sections. Unlike a traditional sauna, Flowpresso is not designed primarily to produce intense sweating. Instead, the system provides warmth while the compression chambers operate. Freddie believes this combination may help promote relaxation and complement the mechanical compression experience. Heat can influence local circulation and comfort, but claims that infrared heat directly removes toxins, kills Lyme bacteria, or reverses chronic illness require stronger scientific evidence. For patients with heat intolerance, autonomic dysfunction, impaired temperature sensation, or certain cardiovascular conditions, heat exposure may also present additional considerations. Nervous System Regulation and the Parasympathetic Response Freddie and Rich discuss the relationship between chronic illness, stress, sleep, and the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system helps regulate functions such as heart rate, breathing, digestion, and vascular activity. Its sympathetic and parasympathetic branches participate in the body's responses to acti

  5. 4d ago

    Finding Hope After Lyme Disease – Tanya's Story of Recovery & Advocacy | LIVE from ILADS

    What happens when seven years of undiagnosed Lyme disease, debilitating symptoms, and medical dismissal push someone to the point of losing hope—and that person eventually becomes a voice of hope for others? In this LIVE from ILADS interview, Tick Boot Camp welcomes Tanya, host of Lyme and Beyond with Tanya, for an emotional and inspiring conversation about Lyme disease recovery, medical gaslighting, mental health, suicidal thoughts, patient advocacy, and the power of sharing stories of healing. After spending years searching for answers, Tanya experienced severe physical and cognitive symptoms that disrupted her independence and quality of life. Repeatedly told that her symptoms were caused by stress or psychological problems, she reached a point where she struggled to imagine continuing her life without answers. But Tanya's story didn't end there. Her recovery journey eventually inspired her to become a Lyme disease advocate and podcast host, creating a platform dedicated to sharing stories of people who have experienced meaningful healing. Today, her mission is to remind people living with Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses that they are seen, heard, understood, and not alone. This episode explores why finding the right community, hearing recovery stories, and discovering a personal reason to keep moving forward can make such a meaningful difference during chronic illness. Meet Tanya: Host of Lyme and Beyond with Tanya Tanya brings a unique perspective to the Lyme disease community. She describes approximately 13 years of personal experience navigating Lyme disease and many additional years supporting and advocating for patients. Her podcasting journey began when her former Lyme disease physician suggested they start a podcast together. At the time, Tanya barely knew what a podcast was. Nevertheless, she agreed to try something completely outside her comfort zone. After approximately three and a half years of podcasting with her former physician, she launched her independent show, Lyme and Beyond with Tanya. Her mission has remained consistent throughout that journey: Give hope and inspiration to people living with Lyme disease. Unlike podcasts that primarily focus on emerging treatments, medical research, or ongoing patient struggles, Tanya emphasizes interviews with people who have experienced meaningful recovery. She wants listeners to hear from individuals who were once bedridden, wheelchair-bound, or severely debilitated but eventually regained their independence and quality of life. These stories help demonstrate that illness does not necessarily define someone's future. Seven Years of Medical Gaslighting Tanya describes spending approximately seven years without receiving an explanation that adequately accounted for her symptoms. During that time, she repeatedly heard suggestions that she was simply working too much, experiencing excessive stress, or dealing with psychological problems. She recalls being told she needed therapy rather than additional medical investigation. Meanwhile, her physical and cognitive symptoms continued. She experienced significant pain and memory problems that interfered with everyday activities. At times, she became disoriented while driving. She describes returning from the grocery store and forgetting that she had groceries in her vehicle. These experiences were frightening, frustrating, and increasingly isolating. For Tanya, the absence of a clear diagnosis made it difficult to know what she was fighting or how to move forward. Her story highlights why patients with persistent, unexplained symptoms need thoughtful medical evaluation, compassion, and a willingness to investigate possible causes. When Chronic Illness Leads to Suicidal Thoughts One of the most important moments in this conversation occurs when Tanya openly discusses experiencing suicidal thoughts during her illness. She explains that years of physical suffering, uncertainty, and feeling dismissed by healthcare professionals gradually eroded her hope. She had previously felt ashamed of this part of her story. Today, she shares it because she wants other patients experiencing similar emotional distress to understand that they are not alone and that support is available. Tanya also reflects on the loss of her brother, who died from a health condition at age 22. She was only 19 at the time. During her darkest moments, she struggled with thoughts about how her family would respond to another loss. Eventually, her niece and nephew became especially important sources of connection and motivation. They helped her reconnect with reasons to keep seeking help and working toward recovery. Suicidal thoughts are a serious health concern, not a personal failure or something patients should have to overcome through determination alone. Anyone experiencing these thoughts deserves compassionate, immediate support from qualified professionals and trusted people. In the United States, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available by calling or texting 988. Finding Your Why During Lyme Disease Recovery Tanya emphasizes the importance of finding a personal reason to continue moving forward. For her, that reason was her niece and nephew. Other patients may find meaning in relationships, creative interests, future goals, faith, community, or the possibility of rebuilding a life they value. Tanya describes how reconnecting with the people she loved helped her move through a particularly difficult period. Her experience illustrates the importance of emotional support alongside appropriate medical care. A person's reasons for living can provide meaningful motivation, but they are not a substitute for professional mental health treatment when needed. Why Lyme Recovery Stories Matter Rich and Tanya discuss the value of hearing stories from people who have experienced significant improvement after Lyme disease. For someone who has been sick for months or years, it can be difficult to imagine a different future. Symptoms may change unpredictably. Treatment may involve setbacks. Financial pressures can become overwhelming. Relationships and careers may be affected. Hearing from someone who once faced similar challenges and eventually experienced meaningful recovery can help restore a sense of possibility. This is the foundation of Tanya's podcast. She intentionally features guests who can share what life looked like during their illness, what changed during recovery, and what their lives look like now. Her goal isn't to suggest that every patient will follow the same path. It's to offer examples of what may be possible. Different Lyme Podcasts, Different Perspectives One of the central themes of this interview is collaboration within the Lyme disease podcasting community. Rich explains that Tick Boot Camp does not view other Lyme disease podcasts as competitors. Instead, different platforms can serve different needs. Two podcasters might interview the same guest and uncover entirely different parts of that person's experience. A patient's perspective may also change depending on where they are in their journey. Someone newly diagnosed may need basic education and guidance. Someone undergoing treatment may be looking for discussions about symptoms, treatment decisions, or navigating setbacks. Someone rebuilding their life may benefit from conversations about rehabilitation, relationships, emotional recovery, and purpose. Tanya's podcast adds another valuable voice to this broader educational community. She also shares that her listeners regularly recommend guests they have discovered through Tick Boot Camp. The exchange of stories and resources helps both communities. The goal isn't to build competing audiences. It's to help patients find the information, encouragement, and community they need. Why Women's Perspectives Matter in Lyme Disease Rich and Tanya also discuss the importance of bringing different lived experiences into Lyme disease conversations. Women may face concerns related to fertility, pregnancy, breastfeeding, family planning, caregiving, and other aspects of health that deserve thoughtful attention. Tanya acknowledges that she cannot personally speak to every experience. She shares that she was unable to have children and that certain topics, including mold-related illness, were not central to her own journey. Rather than attempting to provide answers about experiences she hasn't lived, she welcomes guests who can offer those perspectives. Her approach emphasizes curiosity, humility, and continued learning. The conversation reinforces why Lyme disease education benefits from a diversity of patient voices and qualified medical experts. The Emotional Isolation of Lyme Disease Tanya describes Lyme disease as an intensely isolating experience. Even though she had supportive family members and friends, she often felt alone. That distinction is important. Someone can be surrounded by people who care about them and still feel misunderstood. Family members may struggle to understand symptoms they cannot see. Friends may not recognize how much energy ordinary activities require. Patients may find it exhausting to repeatedly explain their experiences. Connecting with others who have lived through similar challenges can provide a different kind of support. Tanya believes that shared understanding is one of the most valuable aspects of the Lyme disease community. Faith, Grief & Finding Purpose Faith is another important part of Tanya's personal story. She openly discusses experiencing a complicated relationship with God during her illness. At times, she questioned why she was suffering and struggled to reconcile her experience with her beliefs. Over time, her faith became an important source of meaning and comfort. She now views her advocacy as part of the purpose she discovered through her recovery journey. Tanya is grateful for

  6. 5d ago

    $500 Million for Lyme Research & the Fight for Federal Action – Megan Bradshaw | LIVE from ILADS

    Can a Lyme disease patient who spent three years bedridden help change federal health policy for millions of people? In this LIVE from ILADS interview, Tick Boot Camp reunites with Meghan Bradshaw, MPH, Lyme disease survivor, public health advocate, and leader at Center for Lyme Action, for an inspiring conversation about Lyme disease advocacy, federal research funding, proposed legislation, and the power of turning personal suffering into lasting change. After years of misdiagnosis and debilitating tick-borne illness, Meghan spent approximately three years bedridden, underwent numerous orthopedic surgeries, and experienced profound losses of independence and mobility. Yet while rebuilding her body, she returned to school, pursued a career in public health, and became a federal lobbyist working to prevent other patients from experiencing the same suffering. At the time of this October 2025 interview, Meghan served as Government Relations Manager at Center for Lyme Action. She subsequently became the organization's Executive Director in January 2026. During this conversation, Meghan discusses how Center for Lyme Action grew to more than 10,000 advocates, helped secure over $500 million in cumulative federal funding increases, and began advancing legislative proposals that could improve Lyme disease prevention, diagnostics, research, and public health policy. Her message is powerful: You don't have to be healthy, wealthy, politically connected, or even able to leave your bed to help change the future of Lyme disease. For the complete story of Meghan's personal battle with Lyme disease, listen to Episode 196: The Bionic Woman – An Interview with Meghan Bradshaw. From Lyme Disease Patient to Federal Lobbyist Before becoming a national health policy advocate, Meghan Bradshaw was a patient fighting to survive. She describes experiencing devastating physical and emotional consequences after years of misdiagnosis and delayed treatment. At her worst, Meghan spent approximately three years bedridden. Her illness was associated with extensive joint damage, repeated surgeries, and significant loss of mobility. She describes undergoing major orthopedic procedures approximately every three months during part of her recovery. Her body was being reconstructed with titanium and cobalt. But as she explains to Rich, the emotional consequences were equally profound. She had lost her independence, autonomy, and much of the life she previously recognized. Still, she believed she could build a meaningful future. That belief eventually led her toward public health and federal policy. Hear Meghan's complete journey in The Bionic Woman – Episode 196. Why Meghan Went Back to School During Lyme Treatment While recovering from surgery and undergoing treatment, Meghan made a decision that would change her life. She returned to school. As her cognitive symptoms improved, she became increasingly interested in understanding why so many patients experienced similar problems with diagnosis, treatment, and access to care. She didn't believe those patterns were simply coincidences. She wanted to understand the underlying systems and identify opportunities to change them. Meghan pursued graduate education in public health, developing the knowledge and skills needed to address Lyme disease through research, advocacy, and policy. For Meghan, education became more than a career investment. It became a source of purpose during recovery. She wanted to help build a healthcare system in which future patients wouldn't have to endure the same suffering. What Is Center for Lyme Action? Center for Lyme Action is a national 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing federal funding and advancing policy solutions for Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Its work focuses on strengthening the federal government's ability to: Prevent tick-borne diseases Improve disease detection and diagnosis Support research into better treatments Expand public health surveillance Improve education and awareness Fund scientific innovation Respond to emerging vector-borne health threats As a 501(c)(4) organization, Center for Lyme Action can engage extensively in lobbying activities. Meghan explains that she works directly with members of Congress, congressional staff, and federal agencies to communicate the needs of patients and the scientific community. The goal is to translate patient experiences into federal policies and funding decisions that can improve public health. Meet Center for Lyme Action Founder Bonnie Crater To understand how this advocacy movement began, listen to Episode 378: Center for Lyme Action – An Interview with Bonnie Crater. In that conversation, Tick Boot Camp explores the organization's origins, mission, and strategy for increasing federal investment in Lyme disease and tick-borne illness research. Together, Bonnie's and Meghan's interviews illustrate how a growing network of advocates is working to turn patient experiences into measurable policy progress. More Than $500 Million in Federal Funding Increases One of the most significant milestones discussed in this interview is Center for Lyme Action's role in securing increased federal investment. Meghan reports that the organization's collective advocacy efforts helped generate more than $500 million in cumulative increases in federal funding for Lyme disease and other tick-borne conditions over several years. This represents funding increases across federal programs, not a single grant or one research project. Federal funding supports many different activities, including scientific research, prevention, public health infrastructure, surveillance, and efforts to develop better diagnostics and treatments. Meghan credits the organization's advocates, partner organizations, researchers, clinicians, and congressional allies for helping make this progress possible. She believes these achievements demonstrate what coordinated, persistent advocacy can accomplish. A National Network of More Than 10,000 Lyme Advocates Center for Lyme Action's advocacy network had grown to more than 10,000 participants at the time of this interview. Meghan explains that advocates represented all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. These participants help communicate directly with elected officials about how Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses affect their communities. Some share personal stories. Others participate in letter-writing campaigns. Some meet with congressional offices. Others join virtual advocacy events. Together, these voices help demonstrate that tick-borne diseases are national public health concerns requiring sustained attention. How Lyme Patients Can Advocate From Bed One of the most important parts of this conversation addresses people who are still severely ill. Rich asks how someone who is bedridden, cognitively impaired, or struggling with overwhelming fatigue can contribute to advocacy. Meghan understands that challenge personally. She knows what it feels like to have limited energy and little capacity for additional responsibilities. That's why Center for Lyme Action works to make participation accessible. Advocates can use prepared letters, talking points, scripts, and virtual opportunities rather than having to develop everything themselves. For example, a patient may be able to enter basic contact information into an advocacy campaign and send a prepared message to their elected representatives. Meghan emphasizes that people shouldn't have to expend precious energy figuring out how to communicate complicated policy issues. The organization works to make those steps easier. Even a small action can contribute to a much larger collective effort. Explore Center for Lyme Action's advocacy opportunities. Five Federal Legislative Priorities Discussed at ILADS Meghan highlights five legislative initiatives being pursued at the time of the October 2025 interview. These proposals address different aspects of the tick-borne disease crisis, from federal research funding to public health technology and food allergen labeling. The proposals discussed were not all enacted laws. Their status may have changed since the interview. 1. Kay Hagan Tick Act Reauthorization The Kay Hagan Tick Act was originally signed into law in 2019 to strengthen the federal response to vector-borne diseases. The legislation supports coordinated efforts involving research, surveillance, prevention, and public health programs. Meghan explains that reauthorization was among Center for Lyme Action's legislative priorities. Continued authorization and appropriations can help sustain the infrastructure needed to respond to Lyme disease and other tick-borne threats. 2. STAMP Act: A Postage Stamp Supporting Lyme Research The proposed STAMP Act would establish a special postage stamp intended to generate additional funding for Lyme disease and tick-borne disease research. Meghan describes the concept as a way to direct proceeds from stamp purchases toward research supported through the National Institutes of Health. The idea creates another potential mechanism for supporting scientific investigation while increasing public awareness. 3. BITE Act: Tick-Borne Disease Risk Alerts The proposed BITE Act would explore using technology to alert people when they are entering areas with elevated vector-borne disease risks. Meghan compares the concept to the alerts people already receive for severe weather or other emergencies. Imagine receiving a notification on your phone warning that your current area presents increased risk for tick-borne or mosquito-borne disease exposure. Such a system could also provide practical prevention guidance. The goal would be to help people make informed decisions before exposure occurs. 4. Tick Identification Pilot Program Act The proposed Tick Identification Pilot Program Act would establish grants

  7. 6d ago

    Can Lyme Affect Folate in the Brain? Dr. Lindsey Wells on Autism, PANS/PANDAS & FRAA

    What if some of the depression, anxiety, brain fog, cognitive dysfunction, OCD, speech changes, and other neuropsychiatric symptoms experienced by people with Lyme and other vector-borne diseases involve more than the infection itself? In this episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Matt Sabatello sits down with Dr. Lindsey Wells, ND, a Connecticut naturopathic physician whose work focuses heavily on children with Lyme Disease, PANS/PANDAS, autism spectrum disorder, neurodevelopmental conditions, and other vector-borne diseases. The centerpiece of the conversation is Dr. Wells' newly published research, “Folate Receptor Alpha Autoantibodies in Vector-Borne Disease Populations.” Her study explored an intriguing question: could some people with Lyme disease, Bartonella, Babesia, or other vector-borne infections also have an immune-mediated problem that prevents enough folate from reaching the brain? The findings open an important new area of investigation. What Are Folate Receptor Alpha Autoantibodies? Folate is essential for neurological function, neurotransmitter production, mitochondrial health, methylation, and numerous other biological processes. But having adequate folate in the bloodstream does not necessarily mean enough folate is reaching the brain. Dr. Wells explains how folate receptor alpha autoantibodies, commonly abbreviated FRAAs, can interfere with the folate receptor responsible for helping transport folate across the blood-brain barrier. These autoantibodies can either block folate from attaching to the receptor or bind to the receptor and interfere with its normal function. The result may contribute to a condition known as cerebral folate deficiency, where folate availability inside the central nervous system is inadequate despite seemingly normal blood levels. A Surprising Finding in Vector-Borne Disease Patients Dr. Wells and her colleagues examined patients with confirmed evidence of vector-borne infections. Their study found that 61.8% of the vector-borne disease-positive patients tested positive for folate receptor alpha autoantibodies. That finding immediately raises bigger questions. Are vector-borne infections contributing to the development or elevation of these autoantibodies? Can Lyme or another infection be treated while FRAAs remain elevated? Could persistent FRAAs contribute to symptoms that patients and clinicians continue attributing entirely to infection? The Borrelia Finding That Caught Dr. Wells' Attention One of the most intriguing findings involved the soluble folate receptor, an abnormal finding seen much less frequently than standard binding or blocking FRAAs. Eight patients in the study were positive for soluble folate receptor. Seven of those eight had confirmed evidence of Borrelia species infection, while the remaining patient had an indeterminate result involving relapsing fever Borrelia. Dr. Wells discusses why this observation raises questions about whether Borrelia infection, immune activation, inflammation, or another biological mechanism could influence folate receptor function. Bartonella, PANS/PANDAS and Severe Neuropsychiatric Symptoms The conversation also goes deep into Bartonella. In Dr. Wells' clinical experience, Bartonella frequently appears in some of the more complex children she treats with PANS/PANDAS, particularly those experiencing symptoms such as: Severe anxiety OCD Rage and aggression Irritability Sensory sensitivities Cognitive or behavioral regression Persistent neuropsychiatric flares Among FRAA-positive patients in her vector-borne disease study, Bartonella was also the most common individual infection identified. Dr. Wells explains why she believes clinicians evaluating children with unusually severe or persistent PANS/PANDAS symptoms should consider looking beyond traditional triggers such as strep. Can Infection Trigger an Autoimmune Process That Continues Afterwards? One of the most important parts of the interview explores what happens after an infection. Dr. Wells describes how an infection can activate the immune system, but in susceptible patients the immune response may not simply return to baseline once the original infection improves. Immune dysregulation and molecular mimicry may potentially allow inflammatory or autoimmune processes to continue. That creates an important question for Lyme disease: Could a patient successfully reduce or address an infectious burden but continue experiencing symptoms because another downstream immune or metabolic problem remains? What Causes FRAAs? Dr. Wells discusses several factors associated with FRAAs. One is a non-genetic hereditary pattern in which autoantibodies may be transmitted from a parent. Another important area is animal dairy consumption. She discusses research suggesting that proteins associated with animal dairy may share similarities with folate receptor structures. Through a molecular mimicry mechanism, antibodies generated against those proteins could potentially cross-react with folate receptors. Dr. Wells therefore commonly incorporates dairy removal when addressing FRAA-positive patients. She also discusses clinical observations suggesting that FRAA levels can fluctuate and may rise during periods of infection or physiological stress. The FRAT Test Patients cannot determine FRAA status through a routine folate blood test. Dr. Wells discusses the FRAT Folate Receptor Autoantibody Test, a specialty blood test designed to detect autoantibodies to folate receptor alpha. The test evaluates binding and blocking autoantibodies and can also identify the soluble folate receptor finding discussed in Dr. Wells' research.https://www.fratnow.com/ Folinic Acid and Leucovorin If FRAAs are interfering with one pathway responsible for transporting folate into the brain, Dr. Wells explains that another approach may be to use an alternative transportation pathway. That is where folinic acid, including the prescription form leucovorin, enters the discussion. Rather than eliminating the autoantibodies themselves, folinic acid can utilize another folate transport mechanism to help deliver folate into the central nervous system. Dr. Wells discusses improvements she has observed clinically in areas such as anxiety, OCD, cognitive function, communication, speech fluency, and other neuropsychiatric symptoms. Importantly, she emphasizes that dosing needs to be individualized and gradually increased under the guidance of a knowledgeable practitioner. People interested in the supplemental form discussed during the episode can learn more about Emephysis HI-FOLINIC.https://emephysis.com/products/hi-folinic Treating More Than the Infection One of the themes throughout this conversation is that complex chronic illness rarely comes down to one intervention. Dr. Wells describes a three-part approach to many of her complex pediatric patients: Address the microbial burden. Depending upon the individual patient, this may include vector-borne infections and other infectious triggers. Address immune dysregulation and inflammation. This may involve anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory strategies. Support the symptoms affecting daily life. Helping a child function, communicate, sleep, attend school, interact socially, and experience less anxiety or OCD matters while deeper underlying issues are being addressed. It is an approach that recognizes both the biology of chronic illness and the reality of the person living through it. Learn More About Dr. Lindsey Wells Dr. Lindsey Wells practices naturopathic medicine in Trumbull, Connecticut, with a major focus on complex pediatric conditions including PANS/PANDAS, autism, neurodevelopmental disorders, and vector-borne diseases. Learn more about Dr. Wells and her practice.https://lindseywellsnd.com/about/ Read Dr. Wells' Research Folate Receptor Alpha Autoantibodies in Vector-Borne Disease Populations

  8. Oct 9

    Compounding Pharmacy & Personalized Lyme Treatment – Ray Solano | LIVE from ILADS

    LIVE from ILADS: What happens when a Lyme disease patient needs a medication—but the standard dose, ingredients, or delivery method simply don't work for them? Tick Boot Camp welcomes back Ray Solano, RPh, MBA, CCN, founder and owner of PD Labs, a specialty compounding pharmacy that works with practitioners to create personalized medications for patients with Lyme disease, CIRS, mold-related illness, pain, and other complex conditions. This is Ray's second consecutive LIVE from ILADS conversation with Tick Boot Camp. The first interview introduced Rich to the world of compounding pharmacy. This time, they go deeper into what personalized compounding can actually mean for someone with complex Lyme disease. The discussion explores: Liposomal antibiotics Alternative medication delivery methods Medication sensitivities Methylene blue Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) Peptides BPC-157 KPV Larazotide Curcumin Gut health Immune modulation Off-label prescribing Practitioner-pharmacist collaboration Precision medicine The larger message is simple: When one size doesn't fit all, changing the dose, formulation, delivery system, or inactive ingredients may give a practitioner additional options for an individual patient. This interview was recorded live at the ILADS conference, so you may hear some of the energy and background activity of the event throughout the conversation. What Is a Compounding Pharmacy? Most people are familiar with traditional retail pharmacies. A doctor writes a prescription for a commercially manufactured medication. The pharmacy dispenses it. Compounding works differently. A compounding pharmacy can prepare a customized medication based on a prescription for an individual patient's needs. That might involve changing: The dose The strength The dosage form The delivery method Certain inactive ingredients A medication might need to be prepared as a capsule for one patient, a sublingual formulation for another, or a topical preparation in another situation. Solano compares it to ordering a customized meal at a restaurant. Someone may need one ingredient removed because of an allergy or intolerance. Another person may need something prepared differently. The underlying idea is personalization. PD Labs currently describes its work similarly, emphasizing customized medications and specialized formulations for conditions including Lyme disease, CIRS, pain, and other complex health challenges. Why Compounding Can Matter in Complex Lyme Disease People with complex Lyme and tick-borne illness can present with dramatically different needs. One patient may tolerate a standard medication. Another may struggle with the dosage. Another may react to an inactive ingredient. Another may need a different delivery method. Solano believes this is where compounding can become particularly useful. Instead of assuming the commercially available version is the only option, the prescribing practitioner and compounding pharmacist may be able to explore whether a different formulation better fits that particular patient. That makes the pharmacy another member of the personalized-care team. The Patient-Doctor-Pharmacist Triad One of the most important ideas in this interview is what Solano describes as a triad: Patient + Prescribing Practitioner + Compounding Pharmacist The patient brings their experience and response to treatment. The practitioner evaluates the patient and determines the medical strategy. The compounding pharmacist brings specialized knowledge about formulation, dosing options, delivery methods, and what can appropriately be prepared under a prescription. Solano says PD Labs also educates practitioners about available options and collaborates with them when developing individualized formulations. For complicated Lyme disease cases, that collaboration may expand the practitioner's therapeutic toolbox. Liposomal Antibiotics & Lyme Disease One of the most interesting areas Solano discusses is liposomal medication delivery. A liposome is essentially a tiny lipid-based structure that can be used as a drug-delivery vehicle. Solano discusses using lipid-based formulations with oral antibiotics commonly prescribed in Lyme disease care, including doxycycline. He describes PD Labs' approach as an attempt to change how certain medications are delivered and absorbed and, in some patients, potentially improve tolerability. This is particularly relevant when a patient needs a medication but struggles with the conventional formulation. Solano specifically discusses gastrointestinal irritation associated with doxycycline and describes the pharmacy's experience using alternative lipid-based formulations. These are claims and clinical observations discussed by Solano during the interview and should not be interpreted to mean that a liposomal formulation is proven superior to standard doxycycline for Lyme disease or appropriate for every patient. Can Delivery Method Change Treatment Tolerance? This becomes a recurring theme throughout the conversation. Sometimes the question isn't simply: Which medication? It may also be: How is that medication getting into the patient? The same active ingredient can potentially be formulated in different ways depending on the medication, prescription, and patient's needs. For people who have become highly reactive during chronic illness, those details can matter. This connects naturally with many of Tick Boot Camp's other ILADS conversations about precision medicine: The objective isn't finding the protocol for Lyme disease. It's finding an appropriate strategy for this patient. Methylene Blue & Lyme Disease Solano also discusses methylene blue, a medication with a long history of medical use that has attracted interest among some Lyme-literate practitioners. During the interview, he specifically references work involving Dr. Richard Horowitz, methylene blue, dapsone, and botanical combinations. Solano describes PD Labs' work developing alternative methylene blue formulations intended to improve delivery and tolerability. Methylene blue is a prescription medication with important contraindications, interactions, and dosing considerations. It is not appropriate for everyone and should only be used under appropriate medical supervision. For more Tick Boot Camp conversations about complex pharmaceutical Lyme treatment strategies, explore Dr. Richard Horowitz's interviews. Low-Dose Naltrexone: Same Medication, Different Dose Another useful illustration of compounding is low-dose naltrexone, commonly called LDN. Naltrexone is commercially available at substantially higher doses for FDA-approved indications involving alcohol and opioid use disorders. In integrative and functional medicine, practitioners may prescribe much smaller doses off-label for other purposes. That creates a practical compounding need. Solano discusses customized tablets that can help practitioners adjust or titrate doses rather than forcing patients into one fixed strength. The example illustrates why compounding isn't necessarily about inventing a completely new drug. Sometimes the innovation is in how an existing medication is prepared for an individual patient. Peptides & Complex Chronic Illness The conversation then moves into one of the fastest-evolving areas discussed throughout the ILADS interviews: peptide therapy. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that can act as signaling molecules within the body. Solano discusses several peptides or peptide-related compounds being explored by practitioners working with complex chronic illness, particularly in relation to inflammation, gastrointestinal function, tissue repair, and immune regulation. The compounds discussed include: BPC-157 KPV Larazotide Rich notes that several Tick Boot Camp guests have described BPC-157 as part of the rehabilitative phase of their personal recovery journeys. Solano discusses PD Labs' work with alternative formulations designed around these emerging practitioner protocols. Peptide therapies vary considerably in their regulatory status and evidence base. Discussion in this interview should not be interpreted as establishing these compounds as proven treatments for Lyme disease. Gut Health After Lyme Treatment Why discuss the gut during a conversation about Lyme disease? Because patients undergoing prolonged or complicated treatment frequently report gastrointestinal challenges. Solano discusses patients who have: Gut inflammation Significant food restrictions Difficulty tolerating foods Gastrointestinal symptoms during chronic illness His peptide discussion partly centers on strategies practitioners may explore when attempting to support gastrointestinal function. The broader principle is familiar to the Tick Boot Camp community: Recovery isn't necessarily finished when microbial treatment ends. Some patients need a significant period of rebuilding and rehabilitation. BPC-157 & Rehabilitation Rich specifically asks about BPC-157 because previous Tick Boot Camp guests have described using it during recovery. Solano discusses a lipid-particle BPC formulation that PD Labs developed as an alternative to injectable delivery. This is another example of the larger theme of the episode: The molecule is only part of the equation. Dose, formulation, delivery, tolerance, and the individual patient's needs can all influence how a practitioner approaches treatment. Curcumin & Inflammation Solano also discusses curcumin and tetrahydrocurcuminoids in the context of inflammation and pain. Rather than focusing only on conventional capsules or powders, he describes applying similar lipid-delivery concepts to these compounds. Again, this discussion reflects Solano's formulation philosophy rather than establishing a particular compounded curcumin product as a Lyme disease treatment. Alpha-Gal, Sensitivities & Inactive Ingredients The Lyme and tick-borne disease community

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About

Tick Boot Camp is a Lyme disease and tick-borne illness podcast featuring interviews with leading doctors, researchers, scientists, patients, advocates, and experts. Explore Lyme disease symptoms, testing, diagnosis, treatment, recovery, chronic Lyme disease, coinfections, PANS/PANDAS, MCAS, neurological symptoms, emerging research, and the latest advances in tick-borne disease care. Through expert education and powerful patient stories, Tick Boot Camp provides hope, validation, practical information, and a community for people navigating Lyme disease and complex chronic illness.

Information

  • Creator
    Matt Sabatello and Rich Johannesen
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    592
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026
  • Show Website
    Tick Boot Camp

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