Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years, and for good reason. This ancient practice, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is known for promoting balance, reducing stress, and enhancing the body's natural healing abilities. One of its most powerful benefits? Supporting immunity — something that became a major focus for me throughout my cancer journey.

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When the body is under stress — ”whether from illness, treatments, or just life in general”our immune system can take a hit. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and activate the parasympathetic nervous system (aka, our “rest and repair” mode). Research suggests that acupuncture can help regulate immune function, making it a great complementary therapy for anyone looking to build resilience and recover faster. Some studies even indicate that acupuncture may increase white blood cell counts, which are crucial for fighting infections and supporting overall health. (Source)

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But beyond the science, I can personally vouch for how acupuncture made me feel more grounded, more relaxed, and better equipped to handle the physical and emotional toll of treatment. Throughout my journey, I had the privilege of working with three incredible acupuncturists at UCI Health’s Susan Samueli Institute, and each brought something special to my healing experience.

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Meet My Acupuncture Team

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Dr. Lifang Xie, LAc

Dr. Xie was by my side from the very beginning — helping me recover after surgery and supporting me all the way through radiation. She was classically trained in China and has a deep understanding of treating a wide range of symptoms. Every time I saw Dr. Xie, it felt like I got the deluxe needle package — she would address every physical and mental ailment I was dealing with that day. Her expertise and compassionate care made a huge impact on my recovery.

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Frances Lam, LAc

Frances brings a gentle, intuitive approach to acupuncture. In addition to her skill with needles (she’s extra gentle, for those who might be needle-shy!), she has been a wonderful resource for Chinese herbs to help manage some of the side effects from my medication. She also specializes in electroacupuncture, a technique that uses mild electrical stimulation to enhance the effects of traditional acupuncture. Her knowledge and holistic approach have been invaluable in my healing process.

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Heather Rice, LAc

One of my favorite parts of seeing Heather? Essential oils! She incorporates them into her acupuncture sessions, adding an extra layer of relaxation to the experience. On top of that, Heather has a gift for intuitive healing — she even gives small massages for muscle pain, which always felt like an unexpected bonus. Her sessions left me feeling both physically restored and mentally recharged.

 

Acupuncture was one of the best tools I used to support my body through treatment and beyond. Whether you’re recovering from illness, dealing with stress, or simply looking to optimize your health, I highly recommend giving it a try. If you’re in Southern California, the Susan Samueli Institute at UCI Health is a fantastic place to start.

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Disclaimer:

Every person’s cancer journey is unique, and treatment plans should always be personalized. The information shared in this post is based on my own experience and is intended for informational and supportive purposes only. Please consult your physician or medical team before making any changes to your treatment, supplements, or self-care routine.