Therese H. Yang

Career Story: 

In 1988, after completing residency, I was the sole doctor and medical director of Mountain Health, Center, a nonprofit clinic in the mountains about an hour east of San Diego until 1994. As a member, then president, of the Lakeside Health Task Force, we opened a new branch of the East County Community Clinics. Starting in 1994, I worked both at the Lakeside clinic and in a private office until founding Dr. Yang's Family Care in June 1997, where I could serve both the insured and uninsured. As a full-time volunteer, our mission is to serve those who are uncared for by others. To to serve the medically underserved, I have been studying chronic Lyme disease and related infections for 22 years. Because we are one of the few providers in the Western United States treating these devastating and complex diseases, people are traveling to us not only from California and the United States, but also from all over the world. Our comprehensive training and holistic approach has enabled us to utilized therapies from, and work with providers from, many branches of healthcare. In addition, we do first aid and health booths at several local community events.Also volunteer President and CEO of Dr. Yang's Family Care

Notable Professional Accomplishments: 

I've been on several non-profit Boards, including LIAF 2007-present (Lyme-Induced Autism Foundation), DYFC (Dr. Yang's Family Care); professional advisory committee for VNA (Visiting Nurses Association) 1992-1997, VNA Board member 1994-5, Co-Chairperson Professional Advisory Board 1994-5; multiple talks for home health agencies and community groups.2009 NBC Channel 4 interview regarding Chronic Fatigue: Faces of an Illness (and replays)2009 Channel 6 (Fox CW6) news interview regarding Lyme disease2009 Grossmont Healthcare Heroes, Nominee2008 Discovery Health channel interview for show regarding Lyme disease (and replays)2003-present Beneficiary (DYFC) of annual Knights of Columbus Fundraiser Dinner & Auction2002-2003 Beneficiary (DYFC) of Santee Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament2002 Lion's Club (Santee-Lakeside) Award for Community Service2002 Beneficiary (DYFC) of 13th Annual Optimist Club of El Cajon Golf Tournament2001 Honor Alum from Wylie E. Groves High School in Birmingham Michigan; Key note address2000 Channel 10 Spotlight and Telethon2000 Proclamation presented by Charlene Zettle our California State Legislator2000 Proclamation presented by Diane Jacobs from the County Supervisors2000 Awarded Santee Business of the Year, presented by Mayor Jack Dale2000 Citizen of the Year Nominee, Santee Chamber of Commerce1999 Recognized by the County of San Diego Board of Supervisors for outstanding service, leadership and commitment to the San Diego community and the general well-being of area residents1999 Sam Walton Business Leader Award1999 Recognition as Active Teacher in Family Practice for 1998 Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, The University of Utah American Academy of Family Physicians1999 Channel 10 Spotlight and Telethon1998 Lifetime Television interview regarding Lyme and the Internet1998 Channel 10 Community Leadership Award (replay 11/98, 2/99, 2005)

Favorite Recreational Activity: 

Swimming, hiking and family activities

Favorite Memory from Residency: 

Teamwork and flexibility. The entire group of residents and staff helped me through some very difficult times, enabling me to complete the residency and continue in family Practice.

Personal Story: 

Pete and I have been married since 1981. Greg, born in 1986, has graduated and is working as a Computer Engineer. Lisa, born in 1988, is completing Athletic training and Boston University. Michelle, born 1991, is studying at Cal Poly Pomona, to become a high school math teacher. Jennifer, born 1993, is applying to colleges, including Rhode Island School of Design, to become a fashion designer.