Photo:Dr. Susan Wang Selfridge is delighted to share the process of making Japanese jelly cakes with attendees.
August 27, 2024, Pasadena and Walnut, California
On August 4th and 10th, Dr. Susan Wang Selfridge introduced a delightful selection of Japanese jelly cakes at Tai Ji Men Qigong Academy's Pasadena and Walnut branches. The cakes, offered in four flavors—red guava, Kanko grape, Japanese matcha, and passion fruit—reflect her passion for culinary arts. Despite her background as a PhD in music composition from UCLA and a dedicated Tai Ji Men Qigong practitioner, Dr. Selfridge finds joy in watching Food Network, learning from renowned chefs, and sharing her creations with friends. During the events, she also shared her inspiring story of overcoming a significant health challenge.
In the summer of 2022, Dr. Selfridge began experiencing vision problems, prompting her to visit an ophthalmologist. The initial diagnosis suggested something more serious than farsightedness, leading to an MRI that revealed a 50mm tumor in her pituitary gland. This tumor, pressing on her optic nerves, had likely been growing for five to ten years.
Despite the shock and uncertainty, she drew strength from her nearly two decades of Qigong practice under the guidance of Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, the head of Tai Ji Men. She underwent a surgery in 2023, which utilized a minimally invasive procedure through her nostrils, reducing the risks associated with the surgery. Remarkably, she was able to leave the hospital the day after her surgery.
One of the most significant challenges she faced was managing severe dizziness, which at times was so intense that she nearly had to visit the emergency room. However, by calming her breath and practicing Qigong exercises, she was able to stabilize her condition and avoid further medical intervention.
Photo:Dr. Susan Wang Selfridge (second row, third from left joyfully poses for a photo with attendees, showcasing the four flavors of Japanese jelly cakes.
Throughout her recovery, she received immense support from her Tai Ji Men family, including encouraging messages and guidance from her grandmaster, Dr. Hong. This support, combined with her own determination and holistic practices, allowed her to navigate this journey with grace and strength.
Her story highlights the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, embracing holistic practices, and trusting in medical advancements. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that with the right support and resilience, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.
The event was not just a culinary showcase but a celebration of Dr. Selfridge’s recovery from a major surgery last year. She expressed deep gratitude for her renewed health, which enabled her to share her culinary passion with family, friends, and the broader community. Throughout the event, she emphasized the importance of patience, positive energy, and a joyful mindset—qualities that resonate both in her Qigong practice and her approach to cooking.
Her presentation was more than a display of culinary skill; it was a powerful reminder of resilience, positivity, and the simple joys found in everyday life.
About Tai Ji Men
Tai Ji Men is an international, non-profit cultural organization committed to preserving culture and promoting the physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing of people worldwide. In 2000, Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, the head of Tai Ji Men, established two Tai Ji Men Academies in California. In October 2023, Dr. Hong inaugurated two additional academies, one in Santa Clara and the other in Pasadena.
Over the years, Dr. Hong has led members of Tai Ji Men and the Federation of World Peace and Love to take on self-funded tours across six continents to promote a culture of peace with love and conscience. Dr. Hong played a pivotal role in the United Nations’ adoption of the International Day of Conscience and received the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from the office of President Joe Biden in March 2023. This award recognized the 1.2 million hours that Dr. Hong and members of the Federation of World Peace and Love have dedicated to the nation.
About GPDN - Global People Daily News
GPDN (Global People Daily News, https://www.globalpeopledailynews.com/) is an independent non-profit web media organization based in Pasadena, California. Our mission is to serve as a beacon of positivity, connecting with people around the world through the dissemination of good news.