Greetings AOM Members and Colleagues:

AOM is a profession marked by the perseverance of our strong pioneers. Being on the edge of healthcare reform, we are the next generation of pioneers to carve our path to a new horizon, where we are no longer “alternative”, but truly complementary.

Over the next several issues of the Qi-Unity Report, you will notice a change in the information and articles. We will be focusing more on this new horizon—the true philosophy of what it means to be AOM and how we will can be integrated in the U.S. healthcare system.

In this issue of the Qi-Unity Report, we offer you an assortment of articles pertaining to this new direction of the AOM profession. The QUR interviews James Gordon about his book, Unstuck: Your Guide To A Seven Stage Journey Out of Depression. Colleen Ragan, DiplAc, LAc announces the new formation of the South Dakota Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Association, its challenges, and goals for the AOM profession. AAAOM-SO Vice President of Events Elisa Behnk reports on several “in the news” topics about AOM. Jim Pastore, a student at Tai Sophia in Maryland, reports on a fellow student’s initiative to form an integrative alliance with Howard County Medical Center. Martha Lucas, PhD, LAc discusses a case study regarding the treatment of depression by releasing the spirit and compares it to the Western treatment. The QUR also announces the Rally AOM into the Future event to be held at San Francisco State University, Downtown Campus, featuring presenter Michael Taromina, Esq. We invite you to watch for our upcoming Eblast report, by Claudette Baker, LAc, chair of the AAAOM National Government Affairs reflecting on the success at the National Foundation for Women Legislators (NWFL) Conference in New Mexico over Labor Day weekend.

Reminder: You only have until September 30th to take part in the MayWay Matching Donation Drive, in support of HR 646. Any donations made via their website will be match up to $5000 (for a total of 10,000). To make your donation, please see their website, www.mayway.com.

The AAAOM Board and Staff want to extend a truly fond farewell to Doug Newton. Doug served as the AAAOM Program Manager for two years - from August 2007 - 2009. Most of you knew Doug in his leadership of The American Acupuncturist and the Qi-Unity Report. But for many it wasn't just the work, but the relationships and lasting friendships Doug formed with those he worked and interacted with on a daily basis that will forever remain in our hearts. Doug brought tenacity, commitment and passion to this profession and the imprint of his service will leave a lasting impression in the hearts and minds of those he worked with and along side. Doug, the AAAOM wishes you the best as you forge your next path in life. Our deep gratitude and friendship travel with you!

For more information, questions or to submit an article to the AAAOM’s Qi-Unity Report, please email Jolene Habeck, jhabeck@aaaomonline.org.

The AAAOM is interested in your feedback. We invite you to use our General Feedback page to let us know your opinions and insights.