Episode 452: One Tick Stopped the Clock - an interview with Lyme Disease Author Jennifer Crystal

Episode Overview In this powerful episode of the Tick Boot Camp Podcast, Jennifer Crystal shares her journey of surviving and thriving after Lyme disease changed her life. Growing up in a Lyme-endemic region of Connecticut, Jennifer was unaware of the dangers of tick-borne diseases, leading to years of misdiagnosis and suffering. Joined by investigative journalist Kris Newby, this conversation dives deep into the complexities of Lyme disease diagnosis, treatment, and the systemic challenges that patients face. Key Takeaways from This Episode: Lyme Disease Hotspots & Misdiagnosis – Jennifer grew up in Connecticut but lacked awareness about tick-borne illnesses, leading to years of health struggles before finally getting an accurate Lyme disease diagnosis. The “Supermarket Diagnosis” Phenomenon – The conversation explores how doctors often misdiagnose chronic Lyme patients, attributing their symptoms to other conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, or mental health issues. Medical System Limitations – Kris Newby provides expert insights into the history and politics of Lyme disease research, shedding light on why traditional medicine often falls short in addressing chronic Lyme. Finding a Lyme-Literate Doctor – Jennifer discusses the life-changing shift she experienced after transitioning to a Lyme-literate medical professional, highlighting the importance of antibiotics, adjunct therapies, and holistic healing. The Role of Writing in Healing – Jennifer shares how writing her book, One Tick Stopped the Clock, helped her process trauma, reclaim her identity, and inspire others navigating chronic illness. Beyond Insurance: The Cost of Healing – The guests discuss the barriers posed by insurance limitations, emphasizing the need for out-of-pocket treatments, alternative medicine, and community support to achieve real healing. Advocacy & Awareness – The episode calls for greater public awareness, more research funding, and better support for Lyme-literate doctors who face immense challenges in treating complex tick-borne illnesses. Why You Should Listen If you or a loved one is struggling with Lyme disease, this episode will offer validation, hope, and practical advice for navigating the journey to recovery. Jennifer’s story is a testament to resilience, the power of storytelling, and the importance of fighting for proper medical care. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 📖 Jennifer Crystal’s Book – One Tick Stopped the Clock 📖 Kris Newby’s Book – Bitten: The Secret History of Lyme Disease and Biological Weapons 🌍 Tick Boot Camp Website – TickBootCamp.com 📩 Connect with Jennifer Crystal – JenniferCrystal.com 📩 Connect with Kris Newby – KrisNewby.com 🔔 Subscribe & Share! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode to help spread Lyme disease awareness and support those on their healing journey! 💚🎧