ILADS President Reportedly Dead of Lyme Disease
and Co-Infections After 14 Years of Treatment
According to Colleagues and Friends
Dr. Teresa Royer MacKnight, 57, Andover, Maine
Daily Item, Sunbury, Pennsylvania
August 18, 2010
Andover, Maine — Dr. Teresa "Terri" Royer MacKnight, 57, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 15, 2010, peacefully at her home in Andover.
Dr. MacKnight practiced medicine in Hollywood, Fla., Seattle, Wash., Negley, Ohio, and Beaver, Pa., before moving to Maine in 1990.
She practiced medicine in Rumford until being disabled by Neurologic Lyme Disease.
She was one of the founders of the International Lyme and Associated Disease Society and the society's first president in 1999. As a lecturer and author, she strived to help the medical community and the public to recognize, treat and prevent Lyme Disease.
Terri was a loving mother who treasured the time she spent with her son Michael and was delighted to see the wonderful young man he has grown into. He was the apple of her eye. She was known as a compassionate physician and a good friend to many who knew her.
Terri enjoyed gardening, skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing, snorkeling, biking, hiking, and wilderness camping. When not outside, she could be found in the kitchen where she enjoyed cooking for her family. Some of her fondest memories were those spent at camp with family and friends. She also enjoyed traveling and exploring new areas.
Surviving are her son, Michael, and his father, Dirk MacKnight, of Andover, Maine; her mother and father, Russell and Louise Royer, of New Columbia; one brother, Rod Royer, of Salt Point, N.Y.; and one sister, Robin Yost, of Milton, Pa.
A memorial service will be conducted 1 p.m. Monday at the Andover Congregational Church, Andover, Maine, with the Rev. Jane Rich officiating.
[Individuals who knew her reportedly have said in writing, she wanted it known she was disabled and medically ill due to tick infection disease and she expected this to be the reason for her death. Dr. Schaller never met Dr. MacKnight. He is only reporting comments made by those who communicated with her and knew her and who are respected individuals. He takes no position on the cause of her death, other than to wish her parents, family, friends and loved ones comfort during this time of loss].
