Fundraiser set for local man with Lyme disease

BONNERS FERRY — In 2014, Joseph Cook began feeling sick. Before long it became clear he was battling a serious illness, but it wasn’t until 2015 that he was diagnosed with Lyme disease along with multiple co-infections.

Since then, his health has been a roller coaster of ups and downs. Now, a GoFundMe page has been set up to try and help him and his family.

The disease has had a devastating effect on Cook’s life, confining him to a wheelchair at one point. The 52-year-old hasn’t been able to work as a result of the myriad of symptoms affecting him: around-the-clock headaches, widespread inflammation with burning pain and stiffness, weakness, uncontrollable muscle spasms and seizures.

He found relief in 2018 with the help of a Florida doctor. During his time there, his health improved enough to go home, where he continued to improve and build his strength. Then, in June 2020, he suffered a setback and hasn’t been able to work since.

His immediate family has done everything they can to support him but it just isn’t enough. There is an urgent financial need for continued treatment, past medical debt and basic living expenses such as rent and food.

“The family is deeply grateful for the kindness and benevolence of all in our community who have been helpful during our time of need," the Cook family said in a statement. "We hope someday to be able to help others in need in our local community as well.”

Anyone wishing to help can make a donation to the family's GoFundMe page at: https://gofund.me/4c71d0f8, or call Lora Cook at 208-304-5069 with any questions.

For a tax deductible receipt, contributions can be made to: L.A.M.B. Services Inc., P.O. Box 1050, Ceres, CA 95307 (Joseph Cook acct.)