Posted with permission.  This is not from the Northern Rockies, but clearly applicable to all of us. Thank you Melissa.

Dear CDC and FDA,

I don’t want to just go away.
I want to live!
I have a lot to offer this world.
I am not just a number or face in a massive population.
I am a mother, daughter, wife, sister, aunt, friend who has a giving heart and creative mind.

Please.
My life matters.
I am here for such a time as this.

I needed to be tested and diagnosed years ago!!!…
Instead, it was almost too late.
I have now spent all my money on years of useless tests and treatments.
I can no longer work.
I am a prisoner in my own body.

So I plead for the sake of those yet to discover this disease, that you improve research, testing, and physician education on it!
In hopes that they can be tested and treated ASAP and avoid years of misery and declining health.

Sincerely,
Melissa VeHorn
Lyme Warrior and human being