Honoring Those Great Doctors – LLMD’s

In life you come across good doctors, bad doctors and great doctors. I have across my share of bad doctors, it seemed that was the case so often that I soon began lumping ‘all doctors together’ and began distrusting them all. It became my practice of asking for referrals, researching alternative doctors, even interviewing them (although most of them didn’t know it). When I became really sick after the discovery of the tick, I wanted to stay with my current PCP. However, he knew of the complexities of tick-borne diseases and said I should find a doctor that was familiar with that particular type of medicine and knowledge. I was just so disappointed, but how I admired him because of his willingness to address his weaknesses.

He was a hard act to follow. Why?   He truly listened to me and didn’t discount my questions or inquiries when I spoke. He always made the extra effort. Well, in my search I ran across a lot of what I deemed “bad” doctors. Oh yes, they were knowledgeable and in some instances even referrals but I was just so sadly disappointed. If I questioned their reasoning, they would often become angry or defensive and not even offer a reply or justification for their reasoning. At that time, I would vow not to return and find myself, yet, another doctor. Then I came across a neurologist that, once again, listened to me and if I had a question, he’d answer it. If he didn’t know the answer, he’d investigate it. He would even call others for assistance.

Well, many of the doctors that treat Lyme Disease and the other tick-borne illnesses are kind, caring and open-minded. They listen, investigate, and research. They even take the necessary time to answer those nagging questions, i.e., I did some research and heard that this particular drug or herb isn’t as effective or Dr. Smith recommends this. They take the time to explain to you why or why not they have taken a particular approach. I know my doctor took the extra step to ensure that my entire body was in harmony and find the underlying cause to not just treat the symptoms. That is why; many of us Lyme and TBD patients or “Lymies” grow to cherish our doctors.

Despite all the harassing, bashing and name-calling, they go the extra step to treat those that continue to suffer. They go over and above unlike many doctors. They also create hope in possibly regaining our lives as they once were or possibly even better than they are at that particular moment.

This is to thank each and every Lyme-literate medical doctor. I am extremely thankful for Dr. Z, Dr. C, Dr. N, Dr. K, Dr. M, and Dr. D. If it weren’t for them and their extensive knowledge and willingness to listen, I would not be in the healthy state I am in today. I am pain-free, full of energy and beginning to re-learn the art of multi-tasking. I actually think I am better than I was when I was in my early 20’s. (Right now, I can honestly say that I have a great doctor; he is definitely worth the travel.)

That is why the following note I read about Dr. Burke really touched me. When I read this, I thought of his family and how this note would add some comfort to their loss. I know if I read this about my husband, I’d be filled with honor, pride and joy to see how he was so cherished by others.

I hope you take the time to read it and hope that you help in our quest to keep these life-saving and life-changing doctors in our society.  Help them to remain free to treat the best they know how freely.  Rather than using the “rubber stamp”, “one size fits all” treatment that the current guidelines make the current doctors use and are leaving so many to continue to suffer.

NOTE:  If you’d like to know how to help, please contact us.  We can then help by referring you to one of the organizations that meet that certain criteria.  Or, you may take a look at the organizations that are listed under “Resources” to send your donations.  If you are looking for a Lyme-literate medical doctor, check out ILADS for doctor referrals or physician training programs.   You may also want to check out the Lyme Disease Association for doctor referrals.  

Thank you CALDA for pointing me out to this letter.

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The Reporter-Opinion, November 27, 2010

This letter is written to commemorate the life’s work of a great doctor, Dr. Bernard Steven Burke. I read his obituary in shock, and then surprise. The black and white, simple words said nothing to reveal the nature of this man, this beloved doctor, who restored so many lives, who chose not to turn away. In recent years, I have begun to realize how easy it is to be “unknown” within your own family, among those closest to you. Read more.

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