Samantha Bean's journey with Lyme began in 2014. She barely knew anything about Lyme disease, but remembers getting a strange bite on her leg that summer, yet not the typical red ring. A few months later Sam began feeling off physically and started having severe sharp pains in her head. This resulted with Shingles in her ear and Bell's Palsy aka Ramsey Hunt Syndrome. She began the testing process and was diagnosed with Lyme. Throughout the years, Sam has been on antibiotics, anti-virals, supplements, etc. and she has gone to most of the doctors in her area. 

 

As far as treatment now, Sam has taken the knowledge that she has learned from the doctors throughout the years and by trial and error, applies these things to work for her body. For Sam,  this looks like being careful with what she eats, pacing her days, getting regular massages, staying away from certain chemicals and mold that causes her body to flare up.  She also tries to keep her stress levels low. 

 

Creativity is an exhale for Sam. She says, "I love getting lost in painting, photography, and making stuff. I’m feeling pretty good these days. Probably the best I have felt since getting lyme. I do have to say that I find refuge in Christ. I have discovered beauty and even strength when I am at my weakest and lowest because it is then that I am so needy for Him. I believe wholeheartedly that my neediness for Christ is my strength. I know it seems backwards, but it’s true. Well, that’s a little bit about me. I’d love to hear about you too!"