When I was 11, my mom had a chronic illness that extensive Western medicine could not treat. She turned to a renowned acupuncturist in Honolulu -- Dr. Chang Yi Hsiang (aka Lily Siou) -- a 64th generation Taoist Master from China, who had fled to Honolulu during the Cultural Revolution and had started a school in acupuncture and the Six Chinese Healing Arts. She had a thriving clinic where she treated dignitaries, business leaders, and anyone else who needed her care.  One day, she convinced an 11 year old waiting for her mom in the acupuncture clinic to try acupuncture for her cold.

Her gentleness touched my heart, her humor made me laugh, and her treatment cured my sore throat.  Acupuncture and herbal medicine became my primary care.  She helped me through a variety of serious and routine illnesses – common colds, urinary tract infections, tumors, lower back pain, ankle sprains, and severe allergic skin reactions.  I had great respect for this woman who, with few words, seemed to unlock within me the ability to feel well and vibrant. Throughout college and my travels, I tried other acupuncturists, but noticed unpredictable results.  She became dear to me and someone whom I relied upon wherever I was on the globe.   I made a mental note that one day, post retirement, I might study this art for fun.

After college, I knew with all the certainty of a 22 year old that there was nothing stopping me from becoming a high level ambassador or public servant. En route to those pursuits in D.C., I stopped through Hawaii where she invited me to study with her at her school of Chinese medicine.  Her master's program required three years of study (now four), and this did not fit neatly into my plans of returning to D.C.'s School of Foreign Service. "I don't ever see having a practice treating people." I said.

Three years later, I graduated with a Masters in Oriental Medicine from Tai Hsuan College of Oriental Medicine (now named World Medicine Institute), and became licensed to practice in Hawaii.   I immediately joined an established Doctor of Naturopathy's office as his acupuncturist, and for 13 years maintained a private practice.  While I was successful at acupuncture, I did not let go entirely of my original pursuits. In 2009, I formally ended my parallel life in the social justice and national legal aid community.  Since that time, acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine have been my single focus.

In my own experience of this medicine and with illness, I have found acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine to provide wellness beyond the absence of disease. It is the highest level of artistry – to give humbly to those most in need and provide an opportunity for growth and well-being.