Q&A with Gavin K from Cayman Physio.
Provide a Bio on yourself
Gavin has been practicing acupuncture for 15 years, he completed his degree in 2 styles of acupuncture, TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) and Five element Acupuncture. The latter gives him many tools that he’s found incredibly effective in the treatment of cancer, the side effects of chemotherapy and related meds. Gavin holds the highest qualification for acupuncture on island and has had great success in treating many conditions. He particularly enjoys the challenge of treating and helping those that felt there was no other way forward.
Gavin trained in London under Dr. Jing, a highly regarded TCM doctor from Beijing and finished his training in Reading, UK. He came to Grand Cayman in 2016 and has had family here for nearly 30 years. He also holds a diploma in Emotional Intelligence Coaching which he finds very effective in managing expectations and dealing with the emotional aspects of tackling treatment.
What service do you provide through our Wellness Program?
Gavin employs a number of modes of treatment. As well as emotional coaching and acupuncture he has extensive training in diet therapy and exercise. He has had great success treating; nausea, neuropathy, insomnia, vertigo, constipation/diarrhoea and virtually every side effect of chemotherapy and related meds.
When did you start partnering with BCF and why?
I started treating patients from BCF in 2016 but my first experience treating cancer began in 2012. Currently Ive been getting great success with patients’ suffering from the effects of treatment and as the clinical evidence grows more and more Doctors are now referring patients for treatment frequently.
How does your acupuncture training help breast cancer patients and their families in Cayman?
Acupuncture is an entire system of medicine by itself. We use specific points to stimulate the central nervous system to help the body correct issues relating to inflammation, circulation, neurological pain, hormonal regulation and to help increase the bodies own ability to heal and detox.
Are there any tips you can share that could help breast cancer patients and survivors during their breast cancer journey?
First most powerful tip and you’re not going to like it(!) If you have nausea then cut out banana and pear (avocado) immediately. Dense and moist foods like these are difficult for the body to break down. You may not know but this could be the main thing tipping you over the edge to nausea and acid reflux. Many patients experience almost immediate relief when cutting these foods down.
Can you share with us a memorable experience since being part of our Wellness Program?
My memorable experience is a regular one. When people are going through emotional and physical turmoil, they hold a different kind of focus.
They are in ‘fight or flight’ to an extent. In terms of TCM their spirit has been affected. When we start to turn things around for them, there is a different spark in their eye, and they smile naturally. As if the fear has left them. Seeing people come back to themselves is one of the most rewarding feelings I’ve ever experienced, I consider myself truly blessed to be able to have that experience with my patients.
Interesting fact about me?
Since being in Cayman I have inadvertently adopted a nick name. After many patients decided on it, I now fully accept the name ‘The Wizard’! Everyone loves a bit of magic!