Danielle Carr-Gomm’s journey into alternative therapies began at a workshop where she met Hongchi Xiao, a man she believed could transform her life.
“You’re definitely a messenger from God,” she told him, convinced that his methods had helped her reduce her insulin use by half. As a Type 1 diabetic, this was significant to her.
Xiao’s teachings promised a new way to manage her condition, and Danielle was deeply grateful.
However, Danielle’s faith in Xiao’s methods came at a high cost.
In a video testimony, she displayed bruised arms, the result of Xiao’s controversial practice known as “paida lajin.”
This therapy involved slapping the body to expel toxins and restore energy flow.
Xiao, who lacked any conventional medical training, advocated for intense self-inflicted slapping and stretching exercises, often using hands, sticks, or even specialized tools sold on his website.
He claimed that these practices could cure a range of ailments, including diabetes.
The Fatal Consequences of Belief
In October 2016, at a retreat in Wiltshire, Danielle completely stopped taking her insulin, following Xiao’s encouragement.
Within days, her health deteriorated dramatically.
She became seriously ill, displaying symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis—a life-threatening condition caused by a severe lack of insulin.
Tragically, she died a few days later.
Despite this, Xiao continued to hold workshops, even after a previous incident where a six-year-old boy died under similar circumstances in Australia. Xiao was later convicted of manslaughter for the child’s death.
The Trial and Aftermath
During Xiao’s trial for Danielle’s death, it was revealed that he had dismissed her worsening condition as a “healing crisis,” assuring other participants that she would recover.
The jury found Xiao guilty of manslaughter, recognizing his gross negligence and the undue influence he had over Danielle.
The case highlighted the dangers of unregulated alternative therapies and the importance of proper medical guidance.
A Family’s Call for Accountability
Following the verdict, Danielle’s family expressed relief at the conviction but disappointment that others involved in organizing the retreat had not been held accountable.
They emphasized the importance of researching alternative therapies and warned of the risks of following unqualified practitioners.
As they seek to move forward, the family hopes that this case will serve as a cautionary tale for others.
Hongchi Xiao is set to be sentenced on October 1, marking a crucial moment in the ongoing battle against fraudulent medical practices.
TDPel Media
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