I am running the 2024 NYC Marathon to support the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA). 

The Asian American Journalists Association was founded in 1981 by Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) journalists a way to support one another and encourage more AAPI to pursue journalism. Their mission is to "champion the development of AAPI representation and leadership in journalism through trainings, opportunities, and resources for our members." They have a strong network throughout the U.S. and globally.

As a physician, a large part of my job is telling my patients' stories to consultants, social workers, and other health care members. Too often, I have been told by a colleague that an AAPI patient is difficult and noncompliant with care. In these cases, I make it a point to revisit their narrative of illness. Connecting with patients as an Asian American physician has thereby allowed me to retell my AAPI patients' story. Many times, the "difficult" patient was confused by the medical system or unable to interpret the jargon-laden instructions. By reframing the narrative, I have been able to advocate for the care they deserve.

Much in the same way that increasing diversity in medicine benefits patients, advancing AAPI representation in the newsroom ensures fair and accurate coverage for communities of color. We need our stories told by people of our community!