Surviving Lyme Disease: Mary Lyn Hammer’s Fight for Health and Healing

Today, we dive into a conversation with Mary Lyn Hammer, a pioneering force in student loan reform and health advocacy. Mary Lyn has not only made history as the nation's first full-time default manager but has also shaped critical legislation impacting millions of students. Her journey is nothing short of extraordinary, marked by resilience as she overcame a life-threatening illness and turned her experience into a powerful narrative in her recent book, "Over My Dead Body." We discuss her transformative journey, the insights she gained while fighting Lyme disease, and how she emerged stronger, both as a mother and an advocate for health and wellness. Join us for a remarkable discussion that inspires hope and sheds light on the intersections of education, health, and personal triumph.

Mary Lyn Hammer is a luminary in the realms of student loan reform and health advocacy, with a career spanning over 37 years that has fundamentally reshaped policies affecting millions. As the first-ever full-time default manager in the U.S., she has been at the forefront of legislative changes since 1988, collaborating with various administrations, including the Trump administration, to develop real solutions to the student loan crisis that continues to plague millions of borrowers across the nation. Her book, 'Injustice for All', delves deeply into the systemic corruption within the education system, detailing her bold choice to expose malpractices at the U.S. Department of Education. However, her journey is not just limited to policy reform; it also encompasses a deeply personal narrative of resilience and healing following a harrowing near-death experience due to a rare blood infection. Through sheer determination and research, Mary not only recovered her health but also found ways to heal her daughter from Lyme disease, culminating in her latest book, 'Over My Dead Body'. This episode is a testament to the power of advocacy, the importance of personal health, and the remarkable ability to overcome adversity.

Takeaways:

• Mary Lyn Hammer has been a pioneering force in student loan reform for over 37 years, shaping critical federal regulations.
• After overcoming a near-death experience, Mary Lyn's journey of resilience led to her healing herself and her daughter from serious health challenges.
• Her book, 'Injustice for All', reveals systemic corruption in education and her courageous stand against the Department of Education.
• Mary Lyn's new book, 'Over My Dead Body', offers hope and healing strategies for those facing chronic health issues.
• Through her advocacy work, Mary has impacted over 3 million students, showcasing her dedication to education and wellness.
• Mary Lyn emphasizes the importance of mindset in healing, stating that having the right mental approach is crucial for overcoming obstacles.