Move over ice bucket challenge, there's a new cause to promote!
"Take a Bite Out of Lyme Disease" is a new international grassroots social media campaign to raise Lyme Disease awareness. On the Morning Show, local Lyme disease advocates Melissa Bell and Mary Jaycox explained the need for increased awareness
Why a Lyme Disease Challenge?
Lyme Disease is one of the fastest-growing infectious diseases in the country. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), recently described Lyme Disease as a "tremendous health problem." The CDC estimates that there are at least 300,000 new cases each year in the United States alone, with a significant percentage suffering chronic symptoms even after standard antibiotic treatment. The purpose of the Take a Bite Out of Lyme Disease Challenge is to raise awareness and funds to improve diagnosis and treatment. All proceeds will go to International Lyme and Associated Diseases Educational Fund (ILADEF), the 501(c)(3) non-profit of the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS).
"Although there are clear benefits of uniting for an awareness campaign considering the millions suffering worldwide," states Jacksonville resident Melissa Bell, one of the Challenge organizers and President of Florida Lyme Disease Association, "the efforts have been hampered by the fact that many with Lyme are suffering from debilitating symptoms making it difficult to attend physical events. Additionally, patients often cannot afford to participate due to medical bills not covered by insurance, and those afflicted are dispersed geographically. Social media has provided Lyme sufferers with a vital framework for both support, as well as advocacy." Bell states "Facebook in particular has provided an invaluable platform for patients to receive support from others who understand the complexities of Lyme Disease and associated infections." We are "thankful that social media is available to provide a true lifeline for those suffering from chronic, isolating illnesses or those who have children suffering from these conditions."
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How Does the Lyme Disease Challenge Work?
Beginning March 1, 2015, participants are asked to follow the three easy steps below and make a $10 donation. Those who prefer not to take the bite, can donate $100 instead.
Take a photo or video of you biting a lime.
Share a fact about Lyme disease to help spread awareness
Post online and challenge your friends by tagging them
For more information:
http://lymediseasechallenge.org/