12/12/05

To Whom It May Concern:

My name is Kristin Summers and I am a fourth year medical student from the University of Maryland. I am a volunteer at Common Ground Free Health Clinic in New Orleans. Our clinic provides basic primary care, counseling, massage therapy, physical therapy, and acupuncture. Many of our patients have chronic medical conditions and none have been unaffected by the Hurricane. Many patients are struggling with insomnia and depression as a result of their stress. Most people in the community have never experienced acupuncture. The Acupuncturists Without Borders group has been providing daily service at our main clinic as well as traveling with us on our mobile clinics. I believe the acupuncturists are offering a great service – an alternative to drugs, for coping with stress. It helps our patients relax and also shows them that there are alternative ways to cope other than with drugs and alcohol. The acupuncturists are providing a very valuable service to a population that is struggling.

Thanks,

Kristin Summers