what is lyme disease?

August 2011 was the worst month we went through as parents. Earlier this month, we saw three deers at the back of our house and thought it was cute. Then three days later, Jasmine got bitten by something and we didn't think much of it. Two weeks later, we noticed she had a bull eye rash on her arm. It was round like the Target store logo, no question about it. We were curious and did some internet research - all photos lead to lyme disease. We had no clue what it was until now. One can become disable years later if it's not treated. It can attack the brain and nervous system. Some people don't even develop this rash. It's a terrible disease and we need to kill off the bacteria right away. We wanted to take a photo of this rash, but it already went away. We got the first pediatrician appointment available. The doctor we saw dismissed it saying this disease is rare here and the rash may be something else. We practically had to beg her to give us the prescription. Jasmine hasn't take any antibiotics until now, but we don't want to risk any chances with this bacteria. What's the downside versus waiting until it's too late and she'll have to suffer for the rest of her life? We got 250 mg at three times per day for 14 days. Since it was the first time we give Jasmine the oral Amoxicillin (no allergies), it took us a painful hour to convince her to take it. We nearly broke down. Later we found that we can give the medicine with chocolate/strawberry milk, yogurt or apple sauce so she won't notice it. We found a local doctor specialized in lyme (Dr. Cichon), but he doesn't see children. He lead us to a leading pediatrician specialize in lyme disease in Connecticut (Dr. Charles Jones). They told us with Jasmine's age and weight, she should take 400 mg of amoxicillin at twice a day for ** 30 days **, and to make sure we kill off all the bacterias if there are any symptoms. So far Jasmine has no symptoms, no diarrhea, and she looks very normal. We were in the processing of finding another pediatrician anyways. Dr. Saxena was so awesome to take care of us (thanks Catherine for the recommendation!). Also thanks to our friend Angela and cousin Shirley for helping us through this ordeal! The worst feeling in the world is when your child is seriously ill. You want to do everything you can and leave no stone unturned. I think Jasmine will be okay since she has the treatment. It makes every moment the more precious...