Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2011 10:10:34 -0400
From: Claire Kane
Subject: loony talk
Dear Dan,
I am writing with a comment on a recent quote containing disparagement of Chatham’s alternative healing community.
We can’t be blind or gullible of course, but I respectfully suggest an update: People all over the world are retrieving and reviving ancient traditions and combining them with the latest scientific research. UNC Hospital has an Acupuncture Clinic. But I personally find those who have devoted themselves to the pure practice of these modalities without shouldering the burden of helping with scientific research offer expert and inspired care.
I challenge a rare disease. I go to John Hopkins in Maryland, one of the few places in the world that has a center devoted to the study of the condition. It is diagnosed with a biopsy and can affect me systemically as well as focusing on connective tissue.
The international experts at John Hopkins prescribe medication and communicate with my doctors at Duke. They also recommend acupuncture and massage. I do GREAT, thanks to the fusion of eastern and western modalities and strong determination. And I will continue to do so!
I hope and pray that you or someone you love never has to face a situation where a pill, exercise and a good diet won’t fix you right up. But if this happens, I hope that even if it is not your natural inclination, you still have enough courage and love of life to reach out and find solutions wherever they appear.
There are inspired professionals, humdrum practitioners, dreamers and outright charlatans and in all walks of life and all pockets of society and community. No group is immune. We’ve all got to find our way with no guarantees.
Catch up with the times Dan. This chatlist serves us most poorly when we use it to diminish and deride the concerns and lifestyles of others.
Elvis Presley often used this version of a famous quote*: Don’t criticize what you don’t understand**, son. You never walked in that man’s shoes*
All the best to you and yours,
Claire Kane