Author name: Nathalie Pereda

As a child, Juan Cepeda was exposed to traditional healing methods as he assisted his mother Francisca Quitano Cepeda, a suruhåna with the picking of medicinal herbs and other chores required in the preparation of medicines. An everyday occurrence, patients visited their home seeking help from Tan Francisca, providing Juan a means of learning to identify the different plants and their medicinal purposes. However, it would be many years later before Juan actually practiced the art of traditional healing.

As a child growing up in Saipan, it was a common sight for young Genaro Saralu, to see his mother, a local healer treating her patients. Genaro’s great-grandfather, grandfather, and mother were all healers. Genaro’s mother and grandfather taught him the proper methods and techniques of gathering the plants used to prepare medicine for various ailments, as well as various methods of massage. Genaro also learned to call upon the strength of his ancestors to heal his patients.

Master Suruhåna Tan Regina and Master Suruhånu Tun Jesus Terlaje have treated hundreds of individuals from throughout the island who have sought healing through a suruhånu.

Master Suruhåna Angela Santos Palacios has treated many individuals and is a well-known and well-sought suruhåna.