‘Under Our Skin’

To the Editor:

We would like to thank the C.H. Booth Library for hosting a showing of the film Under Our Skin, a documentary depicting the profound effects of persistent Lyme disease. In particular, we much appreciate the gracious assistance of Kim Weber of the library staff.

Approximately 50 people attended the showing last Saturday in Newtown, and another showing may be scheduled if there is sufficient interest. At private, nonprofit showings of the film around the United States, more than 400 audiences have already seen the devastating effects of persistent Lyme disease.

Under Our Skin is particularly poignant for Newtowners since some of the subjects of the film were Newtown residents, and much of the documentary was filmed in Connecticut. It also shows the efforts of Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal to remedy the evident conflicts of interest that have led to so many long-term Lyme disease sufferers being uncovered by their health insurance companies amid medical bills that can mount to $75,000 or $100,000.

Lyme disease is at epidemic levels in most Northeastern states but is growing nationwide and can now be found in all 50 states. Showings of Under Our Skin have been conducted in Iowa, Wisconsin, Texas, and California. Lyme is the fastest-growing vector-borne disease in the United States. It is mainly transferred to humans through the bite of the black-legged tick, also known as the deer tick.

Newtown residents must be particularly aware of Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. Research studies by the University of New Haven’s Dr Eva Sapi have shown that 70 percent of ticks tested in Newtown are infected by the bacteria (Borrelia Burgdorferi) that cause Lyme disease. These sites include areas behind our middle school and Al’s trail, frequently trafficked areas.

Persons interested in arranging for a second showing of Under Our Skin in Newtown may call the Lyme Disease Task Force hotline at 270-3301.

Maggie Shaw Newtown Lyme Disease Task Force

82 Eden Hill Road, Newtown                                  February 11, 2009