The Lyme Disease problem was brought to Kiwanis' attention during 2000-01 when New York District Gov. John Gridley vowed to do something to help children afflicted with this terrible disease.
A gala on Sunday, April 27, will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the foundation and raise money for its work.
The Lyme Disease Project was quickly set up to help pay for medical treatment for children with this disease. Unfortunately most insurance companies do not pay for its treatment, which is very expensive.
Our support is funded through donations from Kiwanis Clubs and individuals and channeled into the Pediatric Lyme Disease Fund. We have 20 active grants for children with the disease.
Lyme Disease is caused by bacteria usually transmitted by the deer tick. It is a scary possibility to consider for New York State residents who enjoy spending time outside during the summer months. Lyme Disease may affect the brain in many ways. The most common is a disturbance in thinking. Other symptoms that occur frequently include headache, mood swings, irritability, depression and marked fatigue.
The spirochete which causes Lyme Disease can invade the central nervous system within days to a week of initial skin infection. the majority of people who are treated early with antibiotics do well and incur no long-term problems. People who are not treated until later may have a more complicated outcome.