Does TCM Offer Hope?

Todays BP after exercise with no medication.

Today I stopped as I was taking my morning walk and considered that question? Did Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) offer me hope? Part of me wanted to laugh and scoff at the question because I sought treatment back in 2004 and of course it was effective and I’m alive today because of it! But I had to remember how doubtful, fearful, and desperate I was before that.


In retrospect I remember clearly how frustrated I was at all of the individuals I sought answers from. These professionals had limited experience in seeing any complete recovery and as a result their advice was be content with what limited function I had gotten back.


I have learned that most physicians I speak with are very open minded but their advice, like that I received, is limited to their actual experience. As a result I often face an uphill battle when it comes to convincing individuals to give TCM a chance to prove itself. I spent years documenting successes but many individuals either doubt or question results and ask to speak with former clients.


Although this seems like a great idea, HIPPA regulations regarding patient confidentiality do not allow for this and those who agree to speak with others are often met with disbelief. In the end each individual must decide for themselves what they will do…. to remain as is… or seek TCM treatment abroad.


As for me I decided to not live in the world of regret and as such became the first American to seek treatment in Tianjin. I came in 2004, almost three years from my stroke and my husband of 30+ years says at that time he expected me to die within the next 2 years (2006). Well I got my life back after making that decision and now the person who was being pushed about in wheelchairs and sitting at home is in China walking 1 1/2 miles a day for exercise! I’m also learning that after years of daily western medication I can now control my blood pressure (see picture) with diet and exercise after using traditional Chinese medication for 4 months and balancing my body. Now I seek an annual visit with my TCM doctor here in China and leave my US doctor thrilled at my state of health. (Its not a miracle… it’s medicine!)

​Ruth
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