Swanky Frankie, Don't Be Cranky

Happy Birthday and Happy Mother's Day MUM!

Although we're far apart, you're always close to my heart. Thanks for all the support and love you have given us all the years. Looking back, I realized how difficult it must be to raise five kids on your own. All of us turned out decent, and you should be really proud of yourself for a great job done. Brave, optimistic and perceptive, you are and will always be my role model. I hope I get to inherit your positivity and courage...

Happy 3rd Anniversary to Frankie's BLOG! (Officially renamed as Swanky Frankie, Don't Be Cranky)

3 years of thoughful posts about my life, photos of my exciting travels and journeys and the occasional grumbles and whines. I can't believe that what started as a brief passion of blogging turned out to be a very important part of my life where I would communicate with all my fellow bloggers and also my inner self. To celebrate the 1095 days of your support, I would like to do a recap of the best posts that I hope we will never forget.

Unforgettable Trips

Gui-Zhou Volunteering Trip
Summer of 2006, I experienced a life-changing trip to the outskirts of one very small town, Dan-Zhai. I've watched documentaries about poor villages and illiterate children but none as heartbreaking and heartwarming as this real-life experience.

Bike Trip Circling Taiwan
Summer of 2007, me and a few of my friends conquered the physical, mental and emotional challenges of cycling around the Taiwan Island in 10 days. Approximately 1000 kilometers after our first departure, we were reborn as stronger yet more sensitive individuals, with loads of memories never to be forgotten.

Groovin' USA
Summer of 2008, I went on a one-man trip to the East Coast of USA, in search of knowledge and opportunities. I met with strangers that I can relate instantly as well as culture differences that I opened my eyes as well as my heart.

My Life, My Emotions
My life up until now has always been fascinating. I am really glad that I can wake up each day with curiosity and anticipation, for no matter what lies ahead, I believe it to be an experience to better myself. Here are a few memorable posts that I go back occasionally for a good read.

M-U-R-A-L
The Puppy We Once Had
My First Week As A Medical Semi-Intern
灰色巨塔 ~ A Depiction of Modesty
The Conference That Made Me Cry

A Philosophical Me
I do often have crazy thoughts going on my mind, but I seldom get too theoretical. But whenever I get 'enlightened', there would be a post to prove and commemorate my infrequent random awakenings.

The Moment I Got Stuck In The Middle
Live Right
This Is My Life

Blogging - A hobby and habit that I never knew I will be hooked on to, but has been affecting me in a positive way since its beginning. Happy Anniversary BLOG, I wish you many many prosperous and momentous years to come.

A quick post about my visit to my partner, Cai Zhao's brother's apartment for lunch. Cai Zhao and her family is from Myanmar, but has been studying / working here since many years ago. Her brother got married last year, and recently bought an apartment in the outskirts of Taipei, which is cheaper, less crowded, yet still conveniently located near downtown.

Ikea - the Swedish-founded Dutch-owned furniture extravaganza has always and still is one of my favorite place to visit. When Ikea opened its first store in Malaysia, me and my family used to go to this gigantic mall of brightl colored furniture for ideas and inspiration for our own home. Ikea never cease to stimulate the nesting instinct in me, always putting a bold yet cosy picture of how my future home should be.


During my Dermatology rotation in Taipei, me and my partner, Cai Zhao took time off for an impromptu trip to Ikea.

Connie, my beloved sister turned 21 recently. For such a memorable event, a simple birthday cake and a few presents seemed to boring and predictable. Knowing how much she wished for a decent haircut, I volunteered to pay for a complete makeover.

The four of us - Connie, Wenting, Kian Hwee and me - dressed up like fashionable elves, all in bright green. Those who caught us on the streets might think that we're a bunch of environmental-activist wannabes, or team members of the Green Team out of some Nickelodeon game show. Envy or not, no one can deny that we are not only matching on the outside, but also close to each other on the insides.

At the hairdresser's, I insisted that Connie go for the punk look - yay-short hair on the sides - with a cool crop of hair left at the front. Wenting suggested a more sophisticated shoulder length look, similar to some famous lady entrepreneurs such Martha Stewart and Hilary Clinton. 

While Connie's on the death-chair awaiting her final look, me and Wenting cannot resist our urge of taking pictures up, down and everywhere. The hair studio looks very clean and neat, decorated with modern bright colors which serves as great backgrounds for our green outfits.

I loved the German colorful wallpaper in particular, especially the funny Haare and Po.

Connie ended up with an assymetrical hairstyle (fulfilling both mine and Wenting's wishes), short and tomboy-ish on one side, neat and long on the other. The birthday girl loved her new makeover that day, but she found that the look needed daily grooming and styling, which she never had time for. But all in all... it was a fresh new her, and there's no better way to celebrate a fresh new twenty-oner!

這就是我在小兒加護病房所照顧的可愛小貝比--洪弟弟, 不要看他鼻子嘴巴都插著管子, 他可是很活潑好動的呢! 他的病床位置的正對面是一個能夠加熱的檢查台, 每一位要住進來的baby都要先放在檢查台上, 做過詳細的檢查一後, 抽血打針, 才能放回屬於自己的病床上. 每當新baby被放上檢查台, 洪弟弟就會好奇的看著這些怪怪的醫生叔叔阿姨們虐待他的同胞. 他的眼神充滿著不解, 眉頭深鎖擔心著嚎啕大哭新來的朋友們, 這個可愛表情, 是讓我們恨不得想要捏他的臉頰, 親親他的額頭.

洪弟弟才3個月大喔, 但是他很勇敢! 打針他都不哭, 平常跟他玩, 他也不吝表現出很high, 讓來探望他的人開心得不想走. 護士小姐, 值班的醫師, 每天來上班的第一件事情, 就是要跟洪弟弟打聲招呼, 畢竟他算是這裡的資深住戶. 他自從1個月大住近來後, 就沒有離開過, 但是卻也跟這裡的每位醫護同仁(還有打掃的阿姨)都變成了好朋友.

這張照片是我離開小兒加護病房的rotation時, 依依不捨所拍下來的照片. 其實後來我也有抽空去看看他, 知道他一天比一天進步, 大家心裡都很安慰. 期待他順利出院的那一天...

面對小孩, 我是又愛又恨. 不想靠近他們的鼻涕+口水+糞便, 不想費心跟一群無法溝通的野蠻動物共識, 更不想親眼看見年紀那麼小就百病纏身的小朋友. 但是, 每當聽見他們天真的笑聲, 盯上他們無辜的眼神, 握著他們純真的小手; 自己又好像愛上了小兒科...

至少到今天為止, 我在小兒科的日子可以算是開心的. 從小孩子身上, 似乎讓我發現快樂是與生俱來的, 只是被我們這些大人漸漸遺忘. 小朋友開心就笑, 生氣就哭, 完全不會掩飾自己的心情. 跟他們相處久了, 自己也放下了保護膜, 因為這些小病人不但沒有心機, 還常常是善良的. 有一個病人, 才11個月大, 就有14公斤, 可說是一只小相撲. 全身肌肉結實的這位小男生, 因為一些病毒感染而住進了醫院. 一開始啊, 他的'白色恐怖'可說是嚴重到極點, 只要看到穿著白袍, 白護士服, 白襯衫的人, 他都要哭到不成人樣. 就這樣, 他在病房住了三五天, 我也盡我的工作本分, 每天定時去拜訪, 做做檢查, 一面跟媽媽寒暄幾句, 一面逗逗這位可愛的小相撲. 寶寶就快出院的時候, 經過護理站前, 竟然雙手伸直要我抱抱. 這一下讓我嚇倒了, 這麼ANTI-醫生的小朋友, 在短短幾天的相處, 就大開了他的心胸, 接受了我這位醫生叔叔.

其實, 可不可以跟陌生人熟, 也要先看看小朋友的年齡. 6個月一下的寶寶, 完全不會認人, 非常好相處, 被偷抱走也不會大哭... 但是一旦他們開始認臉後, 只要看到不熟悉的面孔, 就會趕快放聲大哭, 向爸媽求救. 這些小小孩, 從1-3歲不等, 特點還包括無法溝通, 他高興就配合, 不高興就大亂. 較年長的4-6歲小朋友, 開始懂事了, 可以配合, 能夠聽話. 但這時候, 可能是對社會有所認識, 都會以害羞來保護自己. 小學生以上的小朋友, 雖能夠坦然與身邊的人, 但已經學會帶著一層保護牆, 不像以前那樣單純了... 隨著年齡的增長, 這個隱性的城牆就會越來越厚.

當小兒科醫師真的很不錯, 把自己泡在這個環境, 常常提醒自己要心寬念純, 想辦法返老還童... (待續)

Me and my housemates 'FORCED' my talented friend/classmate/director/photographer to bring us out for a photoshoot. Wenting found this beautiful place with blossoming chrysanthemums, and we immediately fell in love with it. Zerui, the photographer was very professional, with his expensive gadgets and funny pose-talks.

我要坦誠, 今天以前確實對皮膚科有所偏見. 一想到皮膚科, 腦袋浮起的是一群輕松自在的閒醫生. 這些都是班上最會念書的醫學生, 非常會考試, 成績一直都很好. 因為不想承擔太多責任, 而選擇不太會死人的皮膚科... 皮膚科, 多簡單啊! 幾乎不會有人半夜CALL你說病人很危急. 皮膚病, 廣義來說只有兩種藥; 感染就給抗生素, 發炎就給類固醇...

但是啊, 今天的皮膚科張中興醫師 (她是girl, 不是boy), 就讓我完全改變以往的觀念. 張醫師對皮膚科有非凡的興趣, 這是可預料的 (大多數醫生多會把自己的科別捧得很偉大), 但除此之外, 她用了一段很有趣, 很有哲理的解釋來形容幹細胞, 讓我有莫名震撼.

幹細胞 (Stem Cell), 是現今大家很注目的一個議題. 而張醫師呢, 說幹細胞就像醫學生一樣.... 怎麼像呢?

她說啊, 幹細胞是未分化的細胞, 所以它有可能未來可以變成任何一種分化的細胞. 醫學術語說它是 Multipotent, 很有 potential 的意思啦! 這樣啊, 醫學生也是未分化的一群醫師, 以後可能變成各種科別的精英... 也很有 potential!

但是啊, 醫學生也像幹細胞一樣, 都在吸取養分, 但卻處於休眠的狀態, 嚴格來說, 一點作用都沒有...

聽到這裡, 我們心情不曉得是要高興還是慚愧好. 但是, 大家不得不認同張醫師所說的.

接著, 張醫師繼續分析, 每一個細胞都是 '利他' 的. 一旦分化以後, 這些細胞就會堅守自己的崗位, 好好的把本分事做好. 舉例說, 分化好的皮膚細胞就會和旁邊的皮膚細胞一起合作, 為的不是自己, 而是要保護底下的組織與器官; 每一個心藏細胞都是同步跳動, 完全不會有任何個人主義, 為的就是要順利把血液打到全身. 因此啊, 分化的細胞就是秉持著 '利他' 的原則在生活...

張醫師這一下真的讓我雞皮疙瘩都出來了. 不只是醫師啊, 每個人如果都能做好本分, 不都是 '利他' 嗎? 但是, 要做到跟人平和相處, 學習達成共識, 在毫無個人英雄主義底下, 任命努力工作... 這是要多大的修養啊?

最後結束前, 張醫師還補充說, 其實幹細胞還會分化成另一種細胞, 那就是癌細胞. 癌細胞和正常的細胞也就只有一線之差. 它們雖然都來自同樣的幹細胞, 但是正常細胞是 '利他', 癌細胞是 '利己'. 就這樣, 癌細胞反而不斷吸取養分, 破壞其他組織, 為的就是自己啊!

哇... 原來從皮膚科, 從幹細胞就能悟到那麼多道理! 很佩服張醫師, 但又會擔心自己... 這樣一講, 我真的要好好思考, 好好警惕, 我們這些幹細胞, 到底日後會變成什麼? 只是一念之差 '利他' '利己' 就有完全不同的命運.

張醫師, 你要多多傳承, 不然我真的好害怕自己變成 Malignant Cell!

KAOHSIUNG UNDERWENT MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS since its last few city mayors and especially during Chen Shui Bian's presidency. One of the most remarkable progress is an efficient MRT system, further improving its transportation and environment (scooters give out smoke). The KMRT stations were built to impress. Various architects were employed to make all the stations unique in its own way. The result? Gigantic works of art at different parts of the city. Inside, the tokens, the coaches and the counters are all similar to its Taipei counterpart. One thing that sets them apart is that KMRT plays two different tunes when the train arrives and leaves.

I FOLLOWED THE ADVICE OF A LOCAL and went to Zuoying to see the Lotus Lake. The historical town of Zuoying is at the northern outskirts of Kaohsiung city, and is a nice relief from the hectic traffic of the city. Lotus Lake is noted for its close proximity of temples, all gathered by the lake. At its northern edge is the Confucius temple, which I think is larger than the one I visited in Tainan, but less crowded. The Dragon and Tiger pagodas are at the southern end, while the North-pole Hsuen-tien Shang-Ti God's statue is erected at the center of the lake.

Zig zag roads lead visitors to the Dragon and Tiger pagodas. It is believed that to have good luck, one must enter the mouth of the dragon and exit through the tiger's. Inside, murals depict the stories of the 24 obedient sons (which I am not familiar of). The North-pole god's statue on the other hand, is said to be 24 meters in height, the tallest god statue over water in the South-East Asia. Legend has it that this god was sent as a messenger to bless the locals, and thus the statue was built in 1995 to honor him.



THE LAST ATTRACTION THAT I WENT TO before leaving Kaohsiung is the Science and Technology Museum. Boasting a land fill of 19 hectares, this is supposed to be the largest applied science museum in the country. The tickets are fairly inexpensive, NT$100 for adults, and foreigners showing their passports can get a NT$50 discount (good bargain for money). For those who are Chinese-challenged, fear not because most of the exhibits are bilingual. And for those exhibits with no English texts, a friendly flip booklet can be found with English translations.

One thing that I noticed is how much commercialized the museum is. Most of the exhibits (although very educative) are sponsored by some big companies, e.g. Chung Hua Telecom, Amway, SYM motors and Uni-President. I wonder if the museum is facing financial problems due to its low-priced admissions. All in all, knowing that I only paid NT$50, the museum is much more than what I had expected.



IF I HAD MORE TIME I would certainly extend my trip for a couple of days. There are still some sights that I would like to visit, but hadn't the chance... yet. Having travelled most of Taiwan, I think that Tainan and Kaohsiung is a better city for foreign visitors to fully bask in Taiwan's rich culture and history. I myself confess that I did not had enough. So, Tainan-ers and Kaohsiung-ians beware, Frankie will be back AGAIN!
 

MY FIRST IMPRESSION OF KAOHSIUNG is its pollution. Being the largest industrial hub of Taiwan, it is definitely difficult for the city to be clean and pristine. I have heard one so many times of Kaohsiung locals complaining about their air quality and drinking water. Rumors had it that most locals buy mineral water for consumption because the tap water is far too challenging for their taste buds.

I LIKE CITIES but not pollution, so I decided to start my trip in Kaohsiung by traveling away from downtown and into Cijin Island. This nearby island of Cijin, has a beautiful coastline, and a less stressful pace compared to Kaohsiung city. Ferries take passengers as well as bicycles and motorcycles across the narrow straits within 15 minutes. I was surprised at the crowds of visitors during a Monday morning. Most are parents from nearby towns bringing their children for a winter vacation trip (although nothing about the weather suggested that it was winter).

Cijin has a small touristy town feel to it, and as expected, plenty of souvenir shops and eateries. Trishaws are one of its special attractions. With a fee of approximately NT$150, the trishaw cyclist takes you around the island. But if you are as stingy as me, you'll be glad that most of its attractions are within walking distance. And so I walked all the way to the two main sights, the Cihou lighthouse and Cihou fort. While the Cihou lighthouse is a British building, the fort is built in Ching dynasty as a protection for the Kaohsiung harbor. While on top of the Cihou mountain, the whole of Cijin seashore park is visible (no air quality problems here). This seashore park is newly developed and offers swimming, walking paths and an ecological garden. I did not walk there because the weather was too warm to my liking, and my skin has been tanned more than enough.



THE SIZIHWAN BAY is well known for its sandy beaches and the beauty of its sunsets. There is a pedestrian tunnel linking the Gushan harbor to Sizihwan Bay. After coming out of the tunnel, I found myself in the Chung Shan University campus. The students of this university proudly call their school the university nearest to a beach (merely a block away). Plenty locals cycled around the bay area, and also in the campus. I met with two talented guys, one singing while the other performing his guitar in the tunnel. As if there were magic. the music was magnified by echoes, making it sound like an unplugged concert.



PRIDE OF ALL KAOHSIUNG LOCALS and its city mayor is the recently rehabilitated Love River. Once known as the Dagou River (literally translated as Beat Dog River), it was once a favorite place for dating lovers and hence its new trendy name. Pollution then changed the river into a shameful smelly body of water, regarded as an ugly landmark of the city. Following drastic measures done by the city government, Love River regained its reputation as a favorite site for locals and visitors like me.

Many people walk their dogs, and for some, their kids, along the river. With the lantern festival coming soon, a lantern-making competition between schools is held here. Hundreds of entries are placed strategically beside the jogger's path, each one unique and fully handmade. Other than that, mascots of the World Games 2009 hosted by Kaohsiung can be seen floating on top of the river, waving their hands in sync with the river's ripples.

A Municipal Film Archive is also on the river bank. Admissions are free, and although the exhibits only cover two floors, they are quite well made. PS they have restrooms and water coolers in the building, all good things for the weary traveler.


KAOHSIUNG, as in all other big cities, the night is always young. Me and my friend chose to walk around downtown until the night is dark enough for us to go to a dance club. Near the shopping district of downtown, Kaohsiung's central park is also known as the Urban Spotlight due to its many aesthetic neon lights and artsy sculptures. I must say that the park is indeed clean and beautiful, definitely worth a visit.

Finally, 11pm arrived. I did some research and found out that Private Party, a local dance club received nothing but good remarks. And so, me and my friend took the MRT and walked by foot for 10 minutes to find the club situated at a small hidden corner. I immediately realized that it was too silent to be a dance club and we then sadly found out that they close on Mondays. Damn it... All the fuss and no dancing for me?

I did dance a little on the streets on our way home (when no one else is watching of course) but I cannot hide my disappointment, can I? Well, nothing's perfect, and I know I should take the bang like a man. For what it is worth, outside of all the pollution and letdowns, Kaohsiung seems to be a nice city. I just hope next time around, the Beat-Dog city go back to beating dogs and not me.

 

NO SIGNS OF TEMPLE SHORTAGE here in Tainan, last time I counted, there are 3 temples within a couple of blocks from the place I stayed for the night. Ancient and historical architeture overcrowd this city, and this is what it is famous for. I do enjoy some cultural stuff, but I had to admit that I'm bad in history (sorry to my history teacher), and even worse, I did not do my homework prior to visiting all these historical sites.

Not having an idea which site to go, I hopped on the 88 bus, and let it lead my way. I ended up at the Anping Fort, also known as Fort Zealandia, which I think is a Dutch settlement many years ago (I can't figure out how many years). The buildings here resemble those that can be found in Malacca, Malaysia. Red bricks and long walls, all similar to the scenes I had in my mind of Malacca from all the school excursions we did when I was young.

Another attraction in the town of Anping, is the Anping tree house. The old house belonged to a British trader a long time ago, before an evil (or sacred, I cannot judge) banyan tree outgrowed the walls and filled the whole house with its evil (okay, I do judge) roots and vines... Sucking away the nutrients and soul of the hopeless house. Even with the laughter and chit chats of the many visitors, I still feel a sense of disturbing sinister-like atmosphere in the house. I imagine how great it would be for it to be used as a filming set for horror movies... no props needed!

Next on, I went to Eternal Fortress, which the locals used to protect themselves from the Japanese invasion. French engineers helped build this fortress, and it was even equipped with modern cannons (modern at that time), an important milestone in the military coastguard defense of Taiwan. The fortress bears a square shape, with the center being a field for military exercises. When I was there, there are troops of militia marching on the fields in ancient costumes.


Another attraction worth visiting is the Chih-Kan Lou. It was first used as an administrative office by the Dutch, and new Chinese architecture was added on until it became an army hospital during Japanese colonization. Many add-ons were inflicted onto the building, but all the changes are still visible through its remains. The building is literally at the center of the city, and thus reasonably became the most crowded place in town. Tourists tootle the streets in search of souvenirs and eats; while inside the Chih-Kan Lou, games and lucky draws are held in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebration.

Not far away from Chih-Kan Lou, is a much more peaceful Confucius temple. This place was once the highest learning institution of Taiwan, just imagine it being a national university many generations ago. Old scriptures and writings of Confucius and his students can be seen in calligraphy writings on the walls of the temples. One of them is tablet with the school's mission engraved on it.



After being overwhelmed by all those old buildings, I decided to give myself a change by visiting Cheng Kung University. My friend insisted that I go and see the enormous banyan tree (I hope this one's not evil) because it is one unfrequented sight that only locals know. I went on walking into the campus, and although the school is not as big as I thought it would be, finding the ONE special tree is an uneasy task. After rounds of directions, I finally came to the park where old mighty Banyan stood tall and wide. He is obviously the King of all Banyans, or Queen, I do not know how to differentiate.

Tainan a rich cultural city, with so much OLD to see. Do not get me wrong, I honestly feel that the temples are worth visiting. However, too much for a day and you may end up temple-dazzled.

FOOD, WEATHER AND HOSPITALITY - these are what Southern Taiwan is well known for. For my trip to Kaohsiung and Tainan, I held no expectations other than to see this two cities while I am still in Taiwan. With this relaxed pace and low level of anticipation, I was gladly surprised by how much 'goodness' can one city offer.

The train is the easiest and fastest way to reach Tainan, either from Taipei or from my place in Hualien. Signs of me arriving at South Taiwan came to me when I realized how warm the weather became. Rice fields are conveniently placed beside railroad tracks, just perfect for travelers to feast their eyes in. In this part of Taiwan, flat sandy beaches are a norm, as the two cities are situated at the coastal plains of West Taiwan.

AS A BACKPACKER ON A TIGHT BUDGET, nothing excites me more than free stuff. I was on the verge of tears when I know that the Tainan City government is giving free rides on the 88 and 99 bus lines on weekends, with stops at all major attractions in the city. The ancient capital of Tainan, is the oldest and fourth largest city in Taiwan. Tainan is rich in its historical sites and cultural heritage, which seems uncorrupted by the growing economy and modernization. Whereas Taipei is a flourishing westernized metropolis, Tainan kept their traditions closely, giving a good representation of modern-clash-tradition way of life.



I DID NOT SET ANY SCHEDULE and so all the traveling was done leisurely, going wherever my heart feels like (and wherever the bus takes me to). First stop is the Koxinga Shrine, which is the only Fujianese style temple in Tainan, considering Koxinga DID came from Fujian. Koxinga (or Zheng Cheng Gong) is a pioneer of Taiwan, and also one of the greatest maritime explorer of his time. According to the temple's guide, Koxinga passed away here in Tainan, and so the locals built this temple in memory of his great achievements.



ALTHOUGH THE WEATHER FEELS LIKE SUMMER, nightime came early as though winter's here (hey, I forgot. It IS winter). I wandered the streets of Tainan, and came to a beautiful riverside park. The atmosphere is such serene and laidback, there is nothing URBAN about this city. I finally found my way to the Garden Night Market, regarded as the largest of its kind in southern Taiwan. Unlike the Shi-Lin Night Market in Taipei, there are no shop buildings in this one. Vendors push their carts here on night market days, and when the night is over, this place becomes a wide spacious car park.



FOOD IS CHEAP AND GOOD in Tainan. Lots of varieties can be found in the night market. Some are typical Taiwanese snacks, while others are unique to Tainan. The secret to good food here, is the plentiful source of fresh ingredients and the old homemade style of cooking. Traditions are valued here more than anywhere else in Taiwan, and so restaurateurs fight each other for being the best and most authentic of their heritage, each one claiming themselves to be the direct descendents of the pioneering inventors.



THE GENTLE OLD-FASHIONED PEOPLE of Tainan are typically warm and hospitable. During my visit here, I was given generous help all along the way, and was honored as an important guest to them. When I was looking for the Koxinga shrine, an old man walked up and offered to take me there on his motorbike. Another family offered to take me to the night market.... It is really wonderful witnessing these good natured people still upholding traditional values, and almost always never judgemental.

My first day in Tainan, and I already felt its remarkable weather, food and people - all warm and comfortable.



 

Chinese New Year's Eve, the night before the new year in the Chinese lunar calendar, is when all families gather for a reunion dinner. The dinner is almost always held at the house of an elder, the oldest person alive within the family tree. Unfortunately for me, I could not be home at my grandma's for the occasion, and was left trapped in Hualien. The good news is, I DO have a second family, which loves me more than I could ever expected, and has so many family members I lost count everytime I started to try. This POPULOUS family, has a common shared philosophy of compassion and goodwill, and its family members are widely spread across the earth. This family is the Tzu Chi family.

Master Cheng Yen, the founder and mother of this huge organization, reminds all of us that we are one big family, gathered together with a cause. And so, even though we are not bonded by blood, the love we share for others, are so alike that we must be carrying a GENE or DNA that brings us together. During the festive season, many Tzu Chi family members come back to the abode, which is the home to Master Cheng Yen and her disciple nuns, to give good wishes and meet with other


On the eve of Chinese New Year alone, more than 2000 people attended the reunion dinner, and all of us received a 'red packet' from the Master, symbolizing prosperity and good luck. The food was truly amazing. There was a steamboat soup, with lots of organic vegetables freshly picked from the abode's own garden; various symbolic Chinese delicacies perfectly prepared; a to-die-for platter of mouth-watering sweet cakes; and more delicious dumplings than you can possibly finish.

From the first until the fifth day of New Year, Tzu Chi volunteers put together a fair, with all-you-can-eat vegetarian fare, and plenty of educative games to play. The main theme this year revolves around the new modest living hype, educating people to stop unnecessary purchases and to try to live humbly. The idea is quite useful knowing that the recent economic recession has had a major effect on all of us. Simple and sustainable living is also an important step to in preventing further global warming. All of these valuable messages are delivered throughout the fair, hoping each and everyone of the visitors would incorporate these ideas into their New Year's resolutions.

On the other side of the abode, beautiful wooden tables and chairs are arranged into a pleasant cafe for people to have their long talks. Free teas and snacks are offered to all, and the laidback atmosphere of the place lets you relax while you sip tea and listen to the updates from your old acquaintances. I spent my whole afternoon here, meeting with so many friends; some which I have long lost their contacts and some which I just did not have the chance to speak to for a long time. It was a very heartwarming experience, and I felt very much at home.

Nothing compares with the gatherings I had with my true blood family, but the Tzu Chi family reunions never cease to give me support and encouragement as well. It is hard being far away from home, and I thank my family at Tzu Chi for giving me all the love that I need to carry on.

What's a good Chinese New Year without these touching ads? Being far away from home (fortunately for me, not alone) during festive season really breaks my heart. CNY reminds us Chinese of the importance of family and tradition, the two things that I hope I will always cherish and respect.


Here's one that would definitely put a smile on your face


And another one that is totally AWESOME!


Funny Ah Long ad...


This one nearly broke my heart.


And... this one definitely earned my tears.

WHAT??? Did I just hear someone say that you missed me? I know bloggers aren’t meant to procrastinate from posting on a regular basis, it’s just not right… I realized that I missed the New Year’s post where I should have told you about our noisy party and about the resolutions that all typical humans make (and break). I realized that I forgot to share about the month I did my internship at the Traditional Chinese Medicine department, where I spent lots of quality time poking the patients (and myself) with acupuncture needles. There’s so much in life, but unfortunately, not all can be written down in this blog. Sometimes, priorities in real life cause difficulties in accomplishing blogging commitments. (Okay, lame excuse. You should have skipped the crap and get onto the good stuff.)

Three weeks into 2009, and here’s an update to my not so miserable life. I hope this juicy peek into my personal life will satisfy the voyeuristic nature in you.

STUDIES

In case you haven’t notice, I am currently in the sixth year of medical school. Having finished 6 months of internship, I look forward to 18 more before graduation. The ones that I did are all minor specialties, Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Anesthesiology, Diagnostic Radiation and an elective, Traditional Chinese Medicine. Next up, my classmates and me will be entering REAL medicine. For a whole year, we will interning at all the major specialties, Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics and OBGYN.

Life as an intern isn’t as glamorous as it may seem. Although we are now ‘bestowed’ with the authorization of prescribing drugs, writing orders and such, all things doctors do, our lack of knowledge and experience often leave us nervous and uncertain. It can be a very fulfilling experience if I take night calls with a senior resident guiding me through it, but when you are all alone, with no one else behind your back, even the smallest of all complains can keep you up all night.

However, all these can be rewarding, when patients get well, or when medical mysteries are solved with your help. I believe that the challenges will be tougher when I get to the major specialties, but the payoff in terms of learning and maturation will be bigger as well.

Upon graduation (which is about one and a half years from now), we will have to choose a specialty and a hospital to start of residency training. My options are currently narrowed down to family medicine, and probably internal medicine or pediatrics.

The one thing that family medicine attracts me is that it is more dedicated on the prevention rather than the treatment of diseases. The fields of health promotion, international health, community health and integrative medicine are all areas of medicine that I have most interests in. So, my goals for now are to learn as much as I can during my internship, broaden my experience, while I search for a program (Taiwan and elsewhere) that suits me best.

LIFE

Our humble little apartment becomes a venue for gatherings and get-togethers during weekends. My friends, friends of my housemates’, and foreign students all take turns coming to our house for eats and chats. Thanks to my two other housemates, our apartment is always a safe and comfortable place to come home to.

I normally get off work and am back at home around 6pm. The one thing that I enjoy most is to prepare dinner everyday, for me and my housemates. Wenting, my female housemate, loves to do household chores. There are studies that shows how cleaning up can lessen anxiety and depression, and here at home, I have living proof. Jianhui, the other male housemate, is in charge of dealing with the landlord and doing the occasional repairs. Together, our way of delegating responsibilities seems to be working on well. In short, you can say that we are one SMALL happy family.

I try to exercise regularly, dancing and doing gym at the school’s sports center. My most self-rejuvenating way of recreation is watching my favorite TV series and cycling all around Hualien. I make an effort in balancing my life, knowing that if I can’t start now, there’s no way of implementing a healthy lifestyle later on when I get caught on with increasing responsibilities.

All in all, I would say that I am quite satisfied with my current way of life. There’s much to learn, plenty to do, and lots of people to share with.

FAMILY

My mum is doing great. Her business is getting better with time, and her health is just going on well. Connie will be graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health this June. She is one of the most enthusiastic students in our school, pioneering many major projects and thus received nothing but good remarks from everyone. I have no doubts that she will go on doing great things for our society. Her plan for now is to take up some work for a few years, before continuing her studies. Gennie, my other sister, is studying architecture in a local college. I am very proud to know that she is always at the top of her class, and she do deserves it after all that hard work. Kennie is in high school, aspiring to study exercise science in the future. Despite his not-so-appealing grades in PMR, he was so inspired by his last trip to Taiwan, he made huge commitments in his studies so that he can better his grades and ultimately achieve his goal of (in his words) ‘helping people gain health through exercise’. Albie, my youngest brother, is still in elementary school.

My other relatives, and my grandmother, are all passionate about volunteering in Tzu Chi. This is a good thing, because the act of kindness brings out the softer side of us, and with this, I witnessed our family members getting closer and happier. I am truly blessed with such a supporting and encouraging family. During one of the long night talks I had with my family, we all agreed that we have a certain tight bond between us, which is both rare and valuable. I hope that we get more intimate in time, and never drift apart.

FUTURE

I like to dream. I like to dream A LOT. Dreams allow me to wake up in the morning and greet each day with a smile. Dreams let me sleep in anticipation through the night. If you were to ask about my future, I can easily tell you at least 100 things that I WANT and probably WILL do. My philosophy is that we should never impound our thoughts, because anything is possible. I know that among all the 100 things that I wish to do; half of it will not be attained. But, looking at the bright side, I may be able to fulfill half of my lifelong wishes, and that is way COOLER than COOL.

This is a story of a puppy named Wei-Bao (微寶) who once stayed at our house but was never to be found again.

I can still remember the day when WB (short for Wei-Bao) first came into our household. It was a sunny winter day, breezy yet comfortable, and the air is filled with surprises. My brother, Kennie, was spending his month here at Hualien, where he volunteered both at the abode and at the hospital. It may be karma, or it may be fate that brought WB back home to us. While Kennie and Connie was cycling back from the abode, WB followed them all the way, along the small country roads, all through the main route busy with traffic, until he arrived at the hospital grounds (They were supposed to meet me there).

He longed for a place with shelter and love. Orphaned at birth, he was doomed to be damaged by this troubled world. I cannot imagine how much he had to suffer out in the wild, without a roof above him, without someone to protect him from harm, without care and dignity. 'This has to end,' Kennie yelled aloud (in his heart that is), he decided that all of this should end. There was another thing that bothered Kennie, he actually witnessed WB being bullied by other grown-up dogs, and this did have an effect on his compassionate inner soul which is now overflowing with intense passion and righteous enthusiasm.

Overwhelmed with empathy, the altruistic Kennie literally begged me to let him bring WB home. 'Even for one day,' he said, 'we should at least give him some food so that he won't starve to death.' Looking at this skinny little black puppy wagging his tail, greeting me with his large black eyes, I could not say NO. (These little babies/puppies/kittens etc with their cute little faces and cute little actions really have a way of messing up with your conscience) Thus, Connie and Kennie brought WB (which we named after Da-Bao 大寶 and Xiao-Bao 小寶, two popular pet dogs staying at the abode. They often get lots of media attention because their owners let them help with fund-raising. We hope WB will live up to their legacies) back to my apartment, gave him a hot shower and provided him with more food that he can possibly finish.

WB stayed at the balcony of our apartment. Although being a temporary location, we took the time to 'furnish' it with boxes and cloth, resembling a dog house and blankets. We gave him everything and anything our house could provide, be it milk, biscuits, vegetables; and most importantly, we gave him a sense of security and protection from the outside world. Unfortunately, me and my housemates are not in a good state to take the responsibility of getting him as a pet. First of all, our apartment is way too small for him to live and grow healthily, and our busy schedules (we have to sleep at the hospital often due to frequent call nights) prevented us from giving him adequate care.

Despite knowing that he needs us, we held household meetings every day to try to work up a solution. During the meetings, we blah, blah, blah, blah blah blah... In short, we decided to send him away, not back to his old place, but to a safer place that we trust would be the best for him. This 'Safe Place' (abbreviated as SP) has to remain a secret because the owners would not want too much paparazzi and to avoid future trouble.

On the day of WB's departure, we gave him one last hot shower, fed him with good quality food, just as our way of saying goodbye and sorry. WB was still himself, although the week spent at our house gained him a few pounds of muscle, he was still the same cute innocent-looking puppy that we love so much. The separation part is too saddening to recall so I think this big fat asterisk will replace the story well... _*

We were a wee bit happy because we know that WB is in good hands, but this did not last for long. For the first few days, we knew that WB is still taking in the new environment well, but on the fifth day, he was missing and nowhere to be seen. Rumors had it that a Mr. X took him away from SP because he thought that WB is all but bad behaviour. No one knows where Mr. X took him, in fact, no one knows who Mr. X is. (I realized the confused look on your face... this is all very illogical, you'll think. but in fact, this is all TRUE. I know you want to know where SP is, and... I'm not telling!)

Conclusion. Sad. WB was so cute! Bwah.. Wah... Wah... (Hysterical wailing sounds echoing)


To WB: No matter where you are... Please take care! Your ex-ex-owners love you much and wish you all the best in life. Be careful of traffic, cars are dangerous evil things, don't try to chase them. Make sure you choose your friends carefully, some doggy friends can totally lead you to the wrong way. Remember your namesake always, and try to live up to the high expectations that we had for you. We believe that you will be GREAT someday, have patience, and stay safe along the way...

--- Love, Frankie, Connie, Kennie, Wenting and CKH

有在看我BLOG的朋友, 應該對整合醫學 (Integrative Medicine) 不陌生. 最近啊, 台灣醫界也成立了 '台灣整合醫學協會', 真是推動整合醫學的前輩們, 邁向理想的一大步. 雖然協會好像剛剛起步, 活動辦法等等都還在混亂當中. 但是, 我相信, 有志者事竟成... 盼望整合醫學的核心價值, 能夠盡早被醫療人員們認同, 而且大家努力給病人更好的 SERVICE.

這一篇是我最近看到的一篇文章... 作者是成立協會的主席, 許清祥博士.

整合醫學已成世界潮流

    對台灣醫界來說，最近最震撼的新聞，不是金融風暴，或是毒奶事件，而是向來奉西方醫學為圭臬的臺大醫院，終於打破一百一十四年來的傳統包袱，於日前院務會議通過成立「輔助及整合醫學中心」，正式將中草藥或民俗療法相關諮詢，納入服務項目。 台大過去一直以證據醫學的科學精神為傲，這次納入西醫眼中「較不科學」的另類醫療(alternative medicine)，提供有關中、草藥或民俗療法有效性及安全性的諮詢服務，主要的轉折是去年十一月，台大前院長林芳郁和副院長何弘能率團前往美國安德森癌症中心等三家醫院考察，發現在標榜高科技醫療的美國，愈來愈多癌症患者接受另類醫療，許多醫師也開始認同某些非正統醫療，確實可幫助癌症病患緩解疼痛，並穩定病患心靈。一向以美、日醫學馬首是瞻的台灣醫界，終於意識到包括中醫藥的另類醫療已是世界趨勢。兼任該院「輔助及整合醫學中心」主任的台大內科教授余家利形容，「台大走在歷史的十字路口，不能在世界潮流中落後」。

    雖然極力擺脫，傳統的桎梏仍然如影隨形，台大仍極力避開「另類、中醫」等字眼，特別強調「輔助治療」與「整合醫療」。其實正統醫學(conventional medicine)與另類療法難以整合，是發生在現代醫療體系內部的事，然而體制之外，民眾早就自行整合了。根據台大公衛系的調查，台灣有高達85%的民眾，都同時接受正統醫療與另類療法，沒有性別、學歷、社經地位或城鄉的差別。目前國內多數大型醫院都設有傳統醫學或中醫部，台大許多年輕醫師對傳統診療也抱持「不排斥」的態度，但大約四、五年前，台大高層就曾提過引進傳統醫學或漢方醫學的構想，但因遭到部分老教授反對而作罷。 可惜的是，執台灣醫界牛耳的台大在醫療整合議題上，沒有站在領導開創的地位，而只是順應潮流。

多數西醫排斥另類療法，是執著於證據醫學，然而經驗醫學也不可忽視。醫學不是一蹴可及的，而是有其發展的進程與軌跡。人難逃生老病死，所以醫療是人類最基本、也最殷切的需求。因此不管東西方或是任何種族都有自己的傳統醫學，這些傳統醫學都有共通的特性，就是奠基於臨床的經驗與觀察，去蕪存菁，歸納出一套質樸的經驗法則與理論。這樣的醫學進展十分緩慢，一直到近代，奠基於西方科學的深厚基礎，現代醫學才在西方應運而生。由於有科學做後盾，現代醫學，有嚴謹的邏輯思維，重視實驗的實證精神。在科學邏輯系統性的研究下，現代醫學的發展也是隨著科學的進步而突飛猛進，百年來的進步更勝千年。面對宛如一部奧秘天書的人體，至今現代醫學已經解開其中無數的謎團，打過好幾場轟轟烈烈的聖戰，從抗生素、疫苗的發明、麻醉技術的發展，到完成人類全部的DNA定序，這些偉大的成就確實是讓傳統醫學望塵莫及的，也大大的延長了人類的壽命，促進人類的健康。

但是平心而論，我們對於生命的了解，未知仍舊多過已知，現代醫學還尚未達到全知全能的地步。古書上有名言，「學醫三年，天下無不可治之病，行醫三年，天下無可治之病。」這一針見血道盡了醫者的心聲。醫學院的學生哪個不是意氣風發，接受最現代的科學醫學教育，聽著課堂上老師講授著成功的治療案例，就認為天下沒什麼病是治不好的。等到自己成為臨床醫師，才深刻體認到醫學發展也是有極限的，醫生對病人的幫助其實很有限。這些事實使我們對於生命不得不採取更謙遜，更開放的態度。

    現代醫學還有一個特性，由於現代醫學是跟隨著科學發展的後頭走的，每當有新的發現，也可能推翻舊有的觀念，因此現代醫學常發生昨是今非的窘境。舉個我比較熟悉的過敏治療為例，二十多年前當我還是醫學生的時候，如果有人敢用類固醇，俗稱的美國仙丹，治療過敏性疾病，一定會被大家批評為江湖郎中。豈知幾年後，病理學家發現過敏性疾病是一種慢性發炎性疾病，使用抑制發炎反應的類固醇來治療，是合乎邏輯的。現在它已經明列在過敏性疾病的治療指導原則中。又例如過去認為胃潰瘍的成因是胃酸侵蝕胃黏膜所造成的，但是自從澳洲醫生發現胃幽門螺旋桿菌在胃潰瘍的病理機轉中扮演重要的角色以後，所有的治療方式也大改革，現在除了制酸劑，還要加上抗生素，才能減少復發率。這些例子只是要告訴大家，現在大家視為黃金標準的診斷治療方法，也有可能在將來被推翻。當然治療方式能隨著科學發展與時俱進，當然是件好事。我只是希望民眾或是醫界能更理性的看待現代醫學，打破醫學或是藥物萬能的迷思，對民眾來說，預防重於治療，自己的健康應該平時就要多關注，不要依賴藥物。對於治療方式，多徵詢第二意見是一種常識。而醫療工作者則應該多留意科學與醫學的進展，多多學習新知，採取審慎開放的心態，才是負責任的做法。

縱使在現代醫療十分普及的社會中，另類醫療也沒有因此絕跡。相反的，各種另類醫療包括中草藥、按摩、針灸、營養療法、順勢療法、芳香療法、音樂療法甚至是催眠，都各自蓬勃發展。據統計，美國人每年花費在另類醫療上的費用，甚至比正統醫療還多。這股不容忽視的潮流，使得美國在一九九二年於國家衛生研究院下成立「另類醫療研究部」。六年後，在國會支持下升格為「輔助暨另類醫療中心」，專責研究無傷害性的「非正統療法」，研究經費也由一百萬美金暴增為六千八百萬美金。 同時，許多保險公司也開始給付被保險人接受另類醫療的費用。這個現象不只發生在美國，根據台大公衛學院調查，台灣過去一年內曾接受過至少一種另類療法的民眾，高達百分之七十五點五。 這些現象反映了民眾對於另類醫療仍有其需求。身為醫療從業人員的我們不得不去正視，並探討其中的原因。

民眾之所以必須求助於另類醫療，最容易得出的結論就是現代醫療無法滿足他們的需求，然而其中的原因是值得我們去深切反省的。現代醫學必定有其必須改善的問題，其一是對於某些疾病來說，現代醫學仍有其尚待突破的瓶頸，尤其是對於許多慢性病或免疫性的疾病(包括過敏、自體免疫及癌症)，幾乎是束手無策。目前慢性病已經成為民眾健康的主要威脅，慢性病的醫療負擔也佔據了健保支出的大部分，然而很多慢性病都是生活習慣造成的，不去解決源頭的病因，而只是不斷的給予控制性的藥物，自然是無法把疾病治癒的。當然沒有人會因為吃降血壓藥而把高血壓治好，也沒有人吃降血糖藥把糖尿病治好的。而且只要一開始服用這些控制藥物，大概終生都很難擺脫藥物了。由於全民健保已經實施十年了，根據公衛學者的研究，這十年來，民眾取得現代醫療的幫助，十分便利而便宜，然而這十年來台灣地區民眾的平均餘命只增加了6個月，現代醫療對於民眾的幫助到底有多大，是值得我們省思的問題。

除了現代醫學對於某些疾病的醫療仍有進步空間之外，現代醫學還有一個盲點，就是太執著於人體的物質面。人除了有血、有肉之外，還有心，還有靈。現代醫學的科學研究一直往微觀方向深入鑽研，現在的分子生物學已經成為醫學的顯學。醫學研究已經把人解構成各種分子的運作，任何疾病的成因一定是某一個或某幾個分子壞掉了，而導致生理功能的異常。根據線性的思考邏輯，想辦法把壞掉的那個修好就行了，把治療當成是修車，換換零件就行了。現代醫學由於分工太細，加上看診人數太多，很多專科醫師最後都成了訓練有素的狗，在他們眼中人體被拆解的支離破碎，在心臟科醫師眼裡你可能只是一個心臟和一些血管，在骨科醫師眼中你有成了 一堆骨頭。他們可能無暇照顧你的全身，更別說你的心和靈了。

我常說的一個故事，活生生反映了這項事實。我的一位律師朋友，是個典型忙碌的專業人士，30多歲的壯年，除了沒時間運動所造就的微胖身材，身體一點毛病也沒有。偏偏在一次律師公會舉辦的例行健康檢查中發現血壓偏高，在醫師的建議下開始服用降血壓藥。果然血壓下降了，可是連續吃了一個月的藥，他開始覺得房事有點力不從心，面對太太的哀聲嘆氣和冷淡對待，他只好趕快去看男性功能障礙門診。泌尿科醫師給他開了威而剛，果然一吃見效，但沒吃又沒效，太太又擔心太常吃會有副作用，要他再去找泌尿科醫師。泌尿科醫師說：「你是律師，一定是壓力太大了，屬於身心症。」就將他轉介到精神科。精神科醫師開了抗焦慮藥，吃了一段時間，變成藥物成癮，不吃就會失眠，而且性功能也沒有改善，只好再回去找泌尿科。泌尿科醫師這回說：「沒別的辦法了，現在有最新的科技產品，第三代人工陰莖，要用的時候就把水打進去，不用的時候就把水抽出來，很人性化。」我的朋友一聽這可不得了了，要在命根子上動刀，可不是開玩笑的，趕緊來諮詢我的第二意見。我把他的故事從頭到尾聽了一遍，建議他停掉降血壓藥，並且開始減重，結果兩個月後一切問題都解決了。

原因很簡單，性功能障礙只是降血壓藥的副作用，而高血壓也是因為體重過重所導致的。可是這樣一來一往的折騰，我的朋友度過了很煎熬的一年。每次我在醫學院的課堂上講這個笑話，總是引來哄堂大笑，振奮昏昏欲睡學生們的精神，效果一流。也許大家可以把它當成笑話，但它背後是個蠻沉痛的問題。曾幾何時，現代醫學的分工如此之細，已經到了頭痛醫頭，腳痛醫腳的景況，不把一個人看做一個整體，沒有對病人的全體情況作全盤的考量，這是第一個層面。
問題的另一個層面是西醫師或是病人都太依賴藥物，而「藥即是毒」，任何藥物或多或少都有副作用，藥效越強的藥，副作用也越大。

加上目前大家對於健康的要求，不再只是生病能夠得到醫治，而是更進一步希望能夠不生病，希望活的更健康，更有生活品質，甚至更年輕、更美麗。而不是在生了病之後，再用各種侵襲性的治療，讓病人痛苦不堪，就算病好了，也已經不成人形。不久前發生的 一件新聞，一位棒球名教練，因為運動傷害，而長期服用止痛藥，導致肝腎功能受損，最後必須洗腎。一位換腎名醫幫他換腎成功，因而上了新聞版面。這類新聞層出不窮，但我每次總會有很深的困惑。我們中醫的老前輩說：「上工治未病，下工治已病」；西醫的老祖宗希波克拉底也諄諄告誡他的學生do no harm，為什麼現代的醫生卻以做下工而沾沾自喜呢！在不同的環境下，我們醫療從業人員是否也應該有不同的思維？可惜目前西方醫學對於預防保健的著墨仍不多，是否應該從各種另類療法中加以取材？

為什麼台灣大部分的民眾會去尋求另類醫療？首先大部分的另類療法都行之有年，已有相當的歷史，他們通常都是非侵入性的，所產生的副作用也不多，比較沒有傷害。舉個例子來說，像是中藥，在中國已經有千年歷史。中藥到底是不是藥？在現代醫藥學家的眼中仍是一個問題，因為中藥最常用的劑型就是湯劑，也就是用水或酒來加以萃取，並沒有經過純化或濃縮，其實藥用成分並不高，因此也比較沒有副作用的問題。過去中藥會遇到藥害的問題，主要是因為錯用有毒的植物，或是中藥摻西藥的問題。藥用成分越純，劑量越高，效果雖然更好，但是副作用也隨之來。其他像是一些物理性治療，像是溫熱療法、按摩整脊等，除非操作不當，對於人體的傷害並不大。由於它的傷害較小，使一般人在使用時比較不會有顧慮。

    其次是另類療法對於某些疾病或症狀確實有改善的效果，目前許多科學研究都證實了這一點。例如針灸對於止痛的效果在許多臨床研究中已經獲得相當的肯定，它們甚至被用於手術或是拔牙的麻醉。十年前，美國就已有近半數醫學院教授針灸對治療慢性疼痛及肌肉疼痛的課程，有些甚至列為必修課程。其他像是中藥可以緩解癌症放療與化療的副作用，幫助病人度過痛苦的療程，提高化放療的成功率，改善病人生活品質，這些報告在醫學期刊上也是不勝枚舉。我個人從事中西醫整合醫療的臨床工作也已經二十幾年了，從我的臨床經驗中，病人同時接受中西醫的治療往往能夠得到最好的療效。像是我的門診中過敏性病人很多，如果在發作期使用西藥來作症狀控制，但是緩解期西藥往往沒甚麼藥可以用，但是中藥就有很多能夠調節免疫系統的方子，如果加上中藥調理，往往可以減少復發的機率。除了中藥，我在臨床上也常常使用微生物療法和營養療法。微生物療法調節免疫系統在醫學期刊上報告很多，臨床上也有其療效。此外，營養療法用在代謝症候群也非常有幫助。

    有些另類療法則不是治療肉體，而是撫慰病人的心靈，紓解病人的壓力。例如藝術治療、宗教，甚至符咒等，這些在病人對抗疾病的過程中，其實是能夠抒發病人的情緒，解除壓力，增加病人的信心。人的身體是很微妙，心理與生理是一體的兩面，相互影響。心靈的力量往往能夠支撐病人度過生理的病痛，許多腫瘤科醫生都會發現，同樣病情的病人，比較開朗的總是比較能忍受身體的病痛，預後也會比較良好。其實身心症在現代壓力大的生活中，罹病率節節升高，某些另類療法或許也能解決部分的問題。

    然而並不是所有的另類療法都能幫助病人，很多另類療法根本是不科學的。這些例子俯拾即是，像是最近大家流行吃納豆激脢來預防血管栓塞，其實納豆激酶是一種蛋白質，經由口服通過胃酸後就被分解了，根本無法吸收到血液中，如何能發揮抗凝血的作用。還有某些整脊師號稱整脊能夠改善體質，治療過敏性疾病，其實聽在有醫學知識的人耳中，簡直就是天方夜譚。還有些假藉科學之名，說一些似是而非的理論來矇騙一般民眾，像是目前很流行的生長因子，其實也是大分子的蛋白質，如過擦在皮膚上，根本無法通過皮膚角質層到達真皮層，如何能促進表皮細胞生長。試想如果這些大蛋白質都能通過皮膚到達真皮，那皮膚豈不是一天到晚都在過敏。但是業者打著諾貝爾獎得主的名號，是以科學包裝的假科學，然而一般民眾是無法分辨的。醫學本來就是很專業的事情，民眾根本無法自行判斷，自行使用的結果，小則傷了荷包，大則延誤病情而傷身。許多國家對於另類療法有各種認證或管理的制度，然而在台灣另類醫療並不被接受，因此政府機關或是學界也沒有對它進行任何的管理或評價，放任民眾自行整合，實非民眾之福。

    整合醫學其實是非常專業的事情，我們的主張並不是以另類醫療來取代現代的正規醫療，而是希望用科學實證的精神，在現代醫療之外，輔以另類療法，讓民眾得到更好的照顧。我們希望各種疾病或症狀在正規醫療的過程中，根據不同的病程，整合適當的另類療法，使的治療的效果加乘，改善副作用，或促進病人的生活品質。要整合各種醫療其實是需要很多專業人士的共同參與，包括正規醫療的醫師、另類療法的從業人員、醫學研究的學者以及生物科技產業的專家，每一個環節都代表了不同的深厚知識領域，斷不是一般民眾所能勝任的。這也是我們成立整合醫學會最大的宗旨，希望能結合專家學者負起醫療整合的責任。透過專家學者的討論研究，訂定出一套整合醫學療法，提供民眾或是醫療從業人員作為醫療的參考，相信這種作法才是比較積極而有建設性的作法，而不是消極的接受民眾諮詢，對於一般民眾的幫助會更大。

The night everyone calls Christmas Eve, the night when Mr. Santa Claus fly his reindeers all around the world, climbing down chimneys, sending presents to all the nice kids in town while he chews down cookies they leave for him, was the night when Christmas dinners are usually held. Families gather together in reunion the way we Chinese do during Chinese New Year's eve, to bond and celebrate the festive season. Twas' a day of giving they would say, twas' the night before Christmas, the night when Jesus was born.

Here in Taiwan, Christmas ain't celebrated by the public. You'll hear the occasional carols and ringing bells but most of the non-Christians just let this day go by. Our family had a tradition of celebrating all sorts of festivals, Deepavali, Chinese religious dates, be it your religion or mine, it does not matter. We are all a part of a big family, and there's always so much to be thankful and celebrate of.

This is a heritage I proudly inherited from my family, and hence, the play-pretend Christmas dinner at my apartment this Christmas eve. We invited a few close friends, made some yummy dishes, and watched a festive movie. There was nothing much to it, but I felt very comfortable and satisfied, very family-ish... The night ended early, we had work and studies the next day (Too bad we don't get a day off for Christmas). I didn't get the chance to ask if my other friends wrote letters to Santa before, I wonder if they even believed in him. I had to admit that we did hang our stockings every year, and I did write those letters when I was young, but never got to send them because Santa never told us his address. I guess children nowadays won't have problems contacting Santa anymore, because they all have emails, MSN, and even Skype.

I would like to share my recipes for the dishes that I made for this year's Christmas dinner, they turned out quite well.

Hummus with toasted bread

1 cup of chickpeas rinsed and soaked overnight
5 cloves of garlic
1/3 cup of lemon juice
1 tablespoon of peanut butter
Olive oil
1 loaf of French bread

I first boil the chickpeas until soft and toast the garlic in my toaster oven until golden brown. Then, I add the chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, peanut butter, olive oil and a little water in the blender and blend all these ingredients into a paste. That would make a middle eastern hummus that is too delicious to be true. People normally eat hummus with pita bread but they are very hard to find here in Taiwan so I substitute them with toasted French bread. To eat, just dip the bread in the hummus and dig in!

Easy-No-Trouble Spaghetti

1 packet of spaghetti
1 can of tomato puree
1 yellow onion, chopped
Fresh mushrooms sliced thinly
Chopped mock meat
1 handful of fresh basil chopped finely

Heat the pan with oil and fry onion until fragrant and transparent. Add mushrooms and mock meat. Add the tomato puree and cook until everything goes nicely with each other. Add the basil last and cook for another minute. Stir in the cooked spaghetti and you'll have a mouth watering healthy main course for you and your guests. (The red and green color of the spaghetti suits the Christmas mood just well)

My brother Kennie is a very lovable person. He may be tough and rebellious at times, but you'll find him to be a loyal and considerate friend. Being a competitive athlete, track and field in the past, a little of basketball and volleyball, and now representing the state in water polo, you can see that he is much more determined and matured for teens his age. Adding in the difficult childhood that we shared, it is easy to notice that we are really close, so close that me and Connie anticipated his visit to Taiwan more than ever.

His one month trip consists of ten days of Youth camp, which he thoroughly enjoyed himself; and the remaining days spent staying at my place. There's lots more than words can describe about the many stories and feelings Kennie brought into our lives, but I'll have to leave you with this pictures. Maybe I'll elaborate about his trip in this blog, maybe not. Anyways, here's what we have done for the past month of his coming.