I had the opportunity to attend the Connecticut screening of The Monster Inside Me, held at the Ridgefield Playhouse. If you know someone or care for someone with Lyme, you already know most of what this movie documents. This movie is a must-watch for those of you who have a friend with Lyme, who have a loved one with Lyme, who work with someone with Lyme, or who know someone caring for someone with Lyme. This movie is pretty much for everyone because even though the CDC states 400,000 are infected every year, the true number is estimated to be about 2,000,000. It is the pandemic no one is talking about.
This movie shows you what is going on in the lives of those you know….the part they don’t let you see..the rage caused by Lyme the obsessive compulsive tendencies, especially intrusive thoughts. This movie shows you how Lyme has been misdiagnosed as many other diseases, even autism. Doctors are willing to go on record in this movie sharing the fact that Lyme, chronic and persistent Lyme, is not all in your head. You are not imagining it. You don’t need a therapist to treat it. You need medical attention from a doctor who understands how to diagnose and treat, and you need and deserve financial assistance.
What I love the most about this movie is the distinction made between being cured and being healed. A cure may be elusive, if possible at all, but healing encompasses the body, mind and spirit and is very much possible. The movie also honors the role of the caregiver and celebrates the beauty found in overcoming illness together.
The greatest gift to show someone with Lyme that you love them, that you care for them, and that you want to carry their burden, is to watch this movie. It is available at https://www.themonsterinsideme.com Friday, May 20th.