Under Our Skin 2009

Discovery of Mysterious Illness

In the early 1970s, a peculiar illness began emerging amongst children residing in Lyme, Connecticut. Initially thought to be isolated cases of juvenile arthritis, the health crisis raised concerns within the local community that would expand into a national debate on health care.

Identification of Lyme Disease

As cases continued to rise, what was once a fringe thought became a recognized ailment known as Lyme disease. The diagnosis sparked a range of misunderstandings, leading to confusion among patients, families, and medical professionals.

Impact on Families

Many families found themselves stricken with chronic debilitating illnesses, stemming from untreated Lyme disease. The influence of the disease extended beyond physical suffering, affecting family dynamics, livelihoods, and future generations as many unknowingly passed it to their unborn children.

Challenges in Diagnosis

The medical community struggled with the diagnosis of Lyme disease due to its challenging symptoms and difficulties in testing accurately. Consequently, tens of thousands remained undiagnosed or were misdiagnosed, further exacerbating the crisis.

Rising Statistics

The Centers for Disease Control reported alarming figures, estimating that over 400,000 individuals might contract Lyme disease annually. This number was staggering, outpacing cases of AIDS and West Nile Virus combined and highlighting the urgent need for awareness.

Medical Establishment's Response

Despite mounting evidence of its severity, the medical establishment maintained that Lyme disease was easily detectable and treatable. Critics argued against this assertion, emphasizing the discrepancy between mainstream medicine and the lived experiences of patients.

Controversy Over Chronic Lyme Disease

The debate intensified surrounding chronic Lyme disease, with the medical community often dismissing it as a psychosomatic disorder. This left many patients feeling invalidated and struggling to receive appropriate care.

Brave Doctors Stand Up

A select group of courageous doctors began to challenge the conventional views on Lyme disease. Risking their medical licenses, they sought to provide treatment options for patients that were often overlooked by mainstream medicine.

The Patients' Plight

Many affected individuals, once active and vibrant, found themselves limited by the debilitating effects of Lyme disease. The film showcases their harrowing stories, illustrating the drastic changes to their lifestyles and health.

Healthcare System Exposed

The documentary, 'Under Our Skin,' presents a critical exploration of the inadequacies of the healthcare system in addressing Lyme disease. It reveals the underlying issues of profit over patient care, which leads to widespread suffering and neglect.

Personal Stories Unfold

Through personal narratives, the film sheds light on the devastating impact of Lyme disease on patients' lives. These stories not only illustrate the suffering but also the strength and resilience of those battling the disease.

Rising Awareness and Activism

As awareness of Lyme disease grew, so did efforts for education and advocacy. Activists worked tirelessly to push for recognition and better treatment options within the medical community, highlighting the need for systemic change.

A Call to Action

The conclusion of 'Under Our Skin' serves as a rallying cry for viewers to recognize Lyme disease as a serious health crisis. It implores society to confront the complexities of this illness and to push for reforms in healthcare policy.