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Local girl who suffered from neuroimmune disorder returning to healthy lifestyle

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Traci Andrews just wanted a happy and healthy life for her daughter, Josie.

For the first time in years, Josie is feeling healthy.

"She's pretty much back to 100 percent and has been for a good eight months,” Andrews said.

Josie struggled with pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections (or PANDAS), which could be brought on by strep or other infections.

The Andrews family is driving nearly 600 miles to New Jersey for Josie's annual follow-up with a hard-to-find PANDAS specialist.

In February, when we met the Andrews, we looked into the frightening symptoms from PANDAS, including rage and uncontrollable outbursts.

"It absolutely tears families apart,” Andrews said.

More people are learning about PANDAS through community outreach and Channel 9’s investigation. Now, it's getting national attention.

Families in Charlotte and across the Carolinas can watch a new national report on PANDAS on ABC’s 20/20 on Channel 9 Friday night, and families dealing with it say it's a great thing for awareness.

Another PANDAS specialist, Dr. Elizabeth Spaar, said her son suffered from the disorder while she was in med school.

"I think there's going to be a lot of parents seeing this show that are going to say, ‘Oh my gosh, that's my kid,'” Spaar said.

The Andrews, who have paid close to $50,000 in out-of-pocket medical costs, hope the report will lead to more treatment options for PANDAS.

"Our kids deserve a little better than what they've been getting,” Andrews said.

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