20 years later
and I still
remember
everything…
“… third-degree burns all over my body.”
I was merely 9 years old when my mother, two sisters, and I were severely injured in a house fire in Vietnam. I sustained third-degree burns all over my body.
During the first few months after the accident I was often in excruciating pain. However, the physical pain I felt was nothing compared to the heartache I felt when I found out my mother had passed away. I was still in the hospital with fresh wounds and could not attend her funeral; I never did get the chance to say goodbye to her.
Many nights I asked, “Why me?”
Two years later, at 11 years old, my family and I left everything we ever knew behind to immigrate to America where I could get advanced burn treatments.
The years that followed often felt like nightmares. I underwent more than 25 painful surgeries, often dealt with intense depression, while struggling with a negative image of my body; all while living below the poverty line and learning a new language in a foreign country.
At the age of 18, my world turned upside down again.
I lost my beloved father to liver cancer. I was devastated; I thought my life was over. I didn’t know if I had the strength to continue living. I became an orphan and an undocumented immigrant.
Despite all the pain, I did not give up.
I channeled my grief into purpose. My father sacrificed so much so that I could exist, live, and pursue my dreams and goals. His strength and unconditional love gave me the courage to stay resilient, push forward, and believe. I went on to attain my bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of California, Berkeley, and my master’s degree in Social Work, with an emphasis in Community Mental Health from California State University, East Bay. Today, I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a special certification as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
I am my deceased parents’ legacy and wildest dreams.
Why Thrive with Kiki?
Everything I’ve gone through strengthens and molds my mindset to fight like a warrior for my goals and dreams. Whether you have physical and/or emotional scars, navigating life can feel overwhelming and challenging. I am here to let you know you do not have to do it alone. In our work together, I will combine my personal experience, professional expertise, and coaching skills to help you not just survive, but thrive in life.
Walk with me.
