Ticks are having a banner year across much of North America, and that has outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and RVers paying close attention.

Most people know about Lyme disease. But far fewer have heard of Alpha-Gal Syndrome, a tick-borne condition that can suddenly make you allergic to red meat and trigger severe, even life-threatening allergic reactions.

In this episode of the RV Podcast, we revisit one of the most important health interviews we've ever done.

RVer Fred Church shares the remarkable story of how a single tick bite changed his life forever. What started as what seemed like food poisoning after eating a hamburger soon turned into a frightening medical mystery involving swelling, vomiting, intense itching, and a diagnosis that left him unable to eat many of the foods he had enjoyed his entire life.

Fred explains how Alpha-Gal Syndrome develops, the symptoms he experienced, how he was diagnosed, and the precautions he and his wife Kathy now take whenever they head outdoors.

The timing of this conversation couldn't be better. Earlier this summer, Mike had a tick embedded in his face that required a dermatologist to make an incision and use two stitches to remove it. The doctor told him he had already removed dozens of ticks from patients this season.

Whether you're exploring hiking trails, walking the dog around the campground, sitting around a campfire, or simply enjoying the outdoors, this episode is a powerful reminder that tick prevention is more important than ever.

If you think the only tick-borne illness you need to worry about is Lyme disease, this conversation may change your mind.

In this episode:

• Fred Church's personal Alpha-Gal Syndrome story

• The symptoms that led to his diagnosis

• How a tick bite can trigger a red meat allergy

• What RVers and outdoor travelers need to know

• Practical tick prevention strategies

• Why tick-borne illnesses are becoming a growing concern

This is one of those episodes that could make a real difference for you, your family, and your travels.

Also in this episode, answers to your questions about:

• Whether a Combo or a separate washer and dryer is best for an RV

and

• How to best learn how to drive an RV

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