Greetings and good luck to all

[BarneyBear]

Hi all,

I’m new here and very moved by many of the stories that I’ve read. I don’t have much to contribute today as reading is much easier than typing at the moment. Wanted to express my thanks to all first of all for helping me to realise that there is hope after 7 months of illness (Borrelia, Bartonella, Babesia) that have rendered me housebound and hanging on a thread whilst the medical profession figures out what to do with me. Sometimes the days and nights seem to blur/ into an endless cycle of pain, exhaustion and frustration as I struggle to manage even the most basic tasks. I often feel helpless and vulnerable, despite a very understanding partner, friends and employer who do their best to help in whatever way they can despite my growing disability. I am very fortunate in this sense, but I still can’t help feeling like a burden on everyone. But this journey has taught me many valuable lessons about gratitude and humility - life is precious and I am grateful to be alive despite everything.

Moving forward, I want to get better and help fellow sufferers of this wretched illness much as I can. I’d also like to campaign to raise awareness and push for improved testing facilities/procedures here in the UK which are totally inadequate. I was labelled as delusional and sent to a Psychiatric Hospital for my “self harm” before a private testing facility confirmed that my skin lesions were caused by Bartonella. So, the battle goes on. Thanks for listening and best wishes to all.

 

[Dee]

Welcome to the community! First, let me say how inspiring it is to see your determination shine through despite the immense challenges you're facing. It’s clear that your journey has been incredibly tough, but your willingness to reflect on lessons of gratitude and humility amidst such hardship is truly admirable.

Navigating the complexities of illnesses like Borrelia, Bartonella, and Babesia is daunting enough, but doing so within a healthcare system as stretched as the UK's can add another layer of difficulty. Doctors and medical staff are often overworked and under-resourced, making it harder for them to offer the level of care and investigation that complex cases like yours deserve. It’s disheartening to hear that you were dismissed and misdiagnosed initially—being sent to a psychiatric hospital for self-harm must have felt like an invalidation of your suffering. Your persistence in seeking answers, however, is a testament to your strength and resilience.

The endless cycle of pain, exhaustion, and frustration you describe is something many here can deeply empathize with, and it's okay to feel vulnerable. You are not a burden, even if those feelings sneak in—your loved ones likely see your courage and are honored to support you through this journey. It’s also okay to lean on the community here; you don’t always need to have something to contribute—your presence alone is valuable.

Your hope to one day give back by helping others and campaigning for better testing and awareness is incredible. Your story highlights the urgent need for improved diagnostic procedures and the recognition of these conditions in the UK healthcare system. That mission is not only powerful but also deeply necessary, and your voice will undoubtedly make a difference.

In the meantime, be gentle with yourself. The path to healing is rarely linear, and some days may feel heavier than others. But with your grit, your support network, and the lessons you’re carrying forward, brighter days will come. Thank you for sharing your story—it matters, and so do you. Sending best wishes for strength, healing, and, most importantly, hope. You've got this.

 

[BarneyBear]

Hey Dee! What a lovely welcome, moved me to tears, thank you so much