Under Our Skin 2009

In the early 1970s, a mysterious illness began to emerge among the children of Lyme, CT. Initially categorized as isolated cases of juvenile arthritis, this condition eventually gained recognition as Lyme disease, marking it as one of today’s most controversial and misunderstood illnesses. For many who experience it, Lyme disease can lead to chronic, life-altering health issues, causing some to unknowingly transmit the illness to their unborn children. The consequences are dire; numerous individuals may suffer significant loss of livelihood, while others may even face life-threatening situations.

Despite the severity of the disease, accurate testing remains a challenge, leading to tens of thousands of individuals being misdiagnosed or left undiagnosed altogether. According to the Centers for Disease Control, over 400,000 people could contract Lyme disease each year, a staggering statistic that is ten times greater than the combined annual cases of AIDS and West Nile Virus. Yet, the medical community, largely influenced by insurance companies, has perpetuated the notion that Lyme disease is simple to diagnose and treat, dismissing “chronic Lyme” as merely another unrecognized syndrome or a psychosomatic disorder.

UNDER OUR SKIN offers a compelling and often frightening exploration of not only the scientific and political landscape surrounding this disease but also the profound personal narratives of those who have been impacted. It features the brave journeys of a few doctors willing to risk their medical licenses to help their patients, alongside the stories of individuals who once lived active lives but now find themselves struggling to walk. Through this lens, the film unravels a hidden world that is sure to alarm viewers.

As tense and gripping as any Hollywood thriller, UNDER OUR SKIN tackles the critical issues surrounding Lyme disease and exposes the flaws within the healthcare system. This documentary is not just an exploration; it’s an eye-opening revelation that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on its audience.