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Pediatric Lyme Disease

By John A. Gridley
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Seeing how this is the season of giving and helping people in need I thought that I would share with you a letter (which is one of many that) I receive from the parents receiving our grants through the generosity of Kiwanis. It reads as follows:

Dear John:
It has been several months now since we have been receiving assistance from the Pediatric Lyme Disease Foundation for our daughter Alexis. The transactions and reimbursements to providers have been flawless and they are reimbursed very quickly, within a weeks time. This has been a true blessing for our family. It has done a lot to ease the financial burden during a difficult time. We realize the grant cannot continue unending, we truly appreciate this assistance. It's a shame that chronic Lyme treatment is not recognized by much of the medical community and that treatment cannot be covered by traditional medical insurance.
Much of our days are spent with many symptoms. We are unable to have or experience what most families have. The burdening impact of a chronic condition has taken its toll on all aspects of our family. The financial resources required, the multitude of provides, traveling out of state to specialists, the complex pharmaceutical treatment and much more is simply too large of a burden on any family.
Your financial assistance has been one very bright positive that has allowed us to focus on other aspects of care for our daughter. This is contributing to us making more well-rounded holistic progress instead of spending all of our time worrying about the cost of treatment, which will contribute to a greater likelihood of a better outcome. We are making slow and steady progress thanks to you and the foundation. We could never thank you and the Pediatric Lyme Disease Foundation enough for your support. If there is anything we could do to somehow help with your foundation please let us know. God bless you and the foundation members.
Sincerely,
Tracy & Ray Baker (Parents of Alexis)

I would like to thank all Kiwanis for there unending support through the purchase of a Brittany Fellowship, First Level Emerald Brittany and a Second Level Emerald Brittany. It is through your support that we can continue in our mission. No child should have to suffer with this chronic disease called Lyme. On March 22, 2020, we will be celebrating 20 years of service (yes it has been 20 years) to these families who have children with Lyme disease. It will be held at the Floral Park Terrace, 250 Jericho Turnpike in Floral Park. By attending this celebration or by taking a journal ad you will be helping us to help others. Please consider attending or taking a journal ad. Any questions contact Distinguished Past Governor (Gala Chairperson) Joe Aiello or myself.
I firmly believe that all members of Kiwanis are people of conscience, and as such it is our duty and obligation to assist those in need. Hope to see you at the Gala.


Column Posted on Web Site January 26, 2020

 
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