AcuPages.com Q&A

 In 1997, I developed an excruciating pain in my hip and thigh that prohibited me from sitting or standing - even lying down was quite uncomfortable. I tried conventional therapies and drugs but my condition did not improve. Finally, I tried acupuncture and began to get real pain relief. This began my serious thinking about a career in acupuncture.

One of the things that attracted me to Chinese Medicine is its emphasis on treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. Our history, lifestyle, environment, and diet all play an important role in the creation of illness and imbalance in our bodies and offer important clues for healing.

 This is a second career for me. Previously, I had a tax and accounting business that I sold, not knowing what else I might do, but recognizing that life is short and since I did not enjoy my work, I should do something else. I developed both the courage and faith to change careers.

First I learned massage and discovered a deep enjoyment from touching people and working directly with them. Then I studied human anatomy and found this to be the most fascinating subject I had ever encountered!

As I began to complete my prerequisites and study in acupuncture school, I found myself reconnecting with areas of interest in my life. I had studied Western herbology at the California School of Herbal Studies and had made herbal products for my friends and family. Studying Chinese herbs reawakened my respect for and love of plants and their healing capacities. I had minored in Asian Studies as an undergraduate and this gave me a good foundation for my studies of Chinese medicine.

After graduating from acupuncture school, I went to Shanghai, China, to take post-graduate classes. These were enriching experiences of seeing how this medicine is integrated in modern China and of confirming my own knowledge.

I continue to take classes to improve my skills and understanding. I have completed a series in Women's Health and facial rejuvenation as well as courses on addiction recovery and cancer.

I volunteer as an acupuncturist at free clinics (Charlotte Maxwell and Sutter Foundation Women's Healthcare) for women with breast and other types of cancer. This is my community service - once a month - for the last 5 years. It is important to me to support women who are facing this life-threatening illness.

I have participated in a weekly art therapy group for more than 15 years. Here I have learned about witnessing others, holding compassion for myself and others during challenging times, and tracking what is said and discovering what it means. I am developing my intuitive self throughout this process.

 I love music and art. I meditate daily, sing in a choir weekly and make art, currently using colored pencils.

I like to make things and make herbal salves and washes for skin conditions like scars and fungus.