To the Editor:

The Newtown Lyme Disease Task Force expresses our support to Representative Chris Lyddy for his strong leadership in advocating support for passage of HB 6200. This important bill will help alleviate the suffering of many in the State of Connecticut by allowing greater access to treatment for patients suffering from Lyme disease. This law allows doctors the flexibility to prescribe long-term antibiotic treatment for persistent Lyme disease without fear of reprisal from state agencies. Many of our Newtown residents seek care outside the community and many times outside the state.

Rep Lyddy, after listening to the concerns of residents and task force members, initiated and spearheaded the efforts to ensure the unanimous passage of this law. Working with Chris on this bill was a privilege and will have a tremendous impact on the health of Connecticut residents.

Lyme disease is a public health crisis in Connecticut. Currently, Newtown has the unfortunate distinction of having the highest number of reported cases of Lyme disease in Fairfield County, with our children at greatest risk. We are very grateful for the proactive stance that Representative Lyddy has undertaken to be part of the solution to help those suffering and to stop this epidemic.

Respectfully Submitted,

Maggie Shaw & Kim Harrison

82 Eden Hill Road, Newtown                                   October 27, 2010