Biography I am often asked how I became interested in acupuncture. In 1980
my father was ill with Parkinson's disease, and I took him to visit an acupuncturist. My
father responded well and received some alleviation of his symptoms such as less rigidity
and a feeling of well being. We were both impressed by the results and when I wanted to
change careers a few years later I decided to go into the healing arts and study Traditional Chinese Medicine. Taking care of my father I later
learned was a gift that I received from him. It has enabled me to better understand how
illness can change priorities, and affect patients and families. I worked in the film
business at the time and the decision to go into healing was one of my best decisions, and
it has taken me on a continually evolving journey of discovery.
Dr. Fusco in Chinese clinic, 1987
Upon graduation from SAMRA School of Oriental Medicine, I traveled to China and
interned at Hangzhou College Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
China enabled me to obtain experience invaluable to my professional development. I was
lucky to study with Dr.Wei a Master Herbalist and a kind and caring person.
Upon returning to the states I received a Doctor of Oriental Medicine
degree from South Baylo University, in Orange County.
I believe that holistic healthcare should
incorporate the best of East and West, so I have studied extensively the western holistic
therapies such as clinical nutrition, dietary supplements and Mind/Body therapies.
My interest in Mind/Body therapies led me to Harvard
University's program on Behavioral Medicine, with Herbert Benson MD and also to study
Mindfulness based Stress Reduction with Jon Kabut Zinn Ph.D. Realizing the importance of
self esteem in adopting lasting healthful behaviors, I also attended Facilitating Self
Esteem Training with Jack Canfield, and have led several seminars on the subject, as well
as helping individuals to reduce stress and feel good about themselves.
