Aspirus Tick‑Borne Illness Center announces expanded therapeutic services

The Aspirus Tick-Borne Illness Center has expanded its clinical offerings to provide additional therapies intended to support patients managing complex tick‑borne diseases, according to a press release. The Center reports that tick‑borne illness can affect multiple systems in the body, influencing energy, mobility, and daily functioning, and that the expanded services are designed to give patients broader access to supportive care in one location.

Peter Nolan, president of the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Foundation and a founding donor to the Center through the Howard Young Foundation, recently met with Dr. James Thatcher for an update on patient needs and program growth. During that discussion, Nolan asked, “How can I help?”

Dr. Thatcher and Ashley Johnson, APNP, outlined therapies aligned with the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) approach, which are intended to complement existing treatments such as antibiotics and supplements.

“We appreciate the need for the Tick-Borne Illness Center, which serves patients across the Midwest, and want to ensure providers have the tools they need and that access continues to grow,” Nolan said.

According to the release, new services will include red light therapy, described as a noninvasive option aimed at reducing inflammation, supporting cellular repair, and easing chronic pain. Point‑of‑service ultrasound will allow for real‑time assessment to support more individualized care. The Center also plans to add iPads in the waiting area to streamline intake and provide educational resources.

Future additions under consideration include a hyperbaric oxygen chamber and a therapeutic sauna.

The release notes that community support continues to play a role in the Center’s ability to focus on patient needs and overall well‑being.

Learn more about the work of the Howard Young Foundation in the inserted Summer 2026 Defining Moments Magazine in this edition of The Lakeland Times or visit howardyoungfoundation.org.