Lyme victim starts support group

LAFAYETTE — Lyme Disease Association President Pat Smith addressed a packed meeting room at the Sacred Heart Spirituality Center in Newton for the first event held by the Lyme Disease Support Group of Sussex County. Smith spoke about the causes of Lyme Disease, the dangers if it goes untreated and how to prevent it. Smith also explained proper procedure for removal of a tick (use pointed tweezers and place close to the skin at the head of the tick, pull straight out to remove, then clean skin with an antiseptic). The group was started by Katie and Roy Reynolds of Lafayette. Roy Reynolds, 24, was diagnosed with Lyme Disease on June 26, 2007. He said Lyme has left him debilitated and he can no longer enjoy doing the things he used to do. The support group has been “amazing,” Reynolds said. And his wife Katie agreed. “We know at the end of the day it’s important to stay positive. The positive mindset makes everything better.” Find out more The film “Under Our Skin,” about Lyme Disease, will be shown the third Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Sacred Heart Spirituality Center in Newton. The Lyme Disease Support Group of Sussex County meets the second and fourth Monday of every month from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Lafayette Township Municipal Building. For more information, contact Katie and Roy Reynolds at 973-876-2548.