Dr. Pakpilai Thavisin, affectionately known as “Dr. Om,” has recently become a prominent figure in the public eye. Her emergence into the spotlight came as she embarked on her role as First Lady on August 23, coinciding with the day when her husband, Srettha Thavisin, received royal confirmation as Thailand’s new Prime Minister. Dr. Om, celebrated for her outstanding contributions to the field of medicine, has been married to Srettha for an impressive 34 years, and their enduring love story is a source of inspiration to many.
Their long-standing partnership is not only marked by their deep affection for each other but also by their robust health, despite both being 61 years old. Together, they have raised three children who have pursued diverse career paths. Their eldest son, “Nop-Napat Thavisin,” holds a prominent position as the Director of Project Development at the Sansiri Company.
The second son, “Naeb-Warut Thavisin,” has found his niche working with the Raine Group. Meanwhile, their youngest daughter, “Nub-Chananda Thavisin,” is a successful entrepreneur who owns “Cafe Mikka” in Future Park Rangsit and a restaurant named “Tasty Congee & Noodle Wantun Shop” located in Siam Paragon.
Dr. Om’s journey into the world of medicine commenced at Chulalongkorn College, the very institution where her husband had pursued a degree in civil engineering. Her decision to enter the medical field was profoundly influenced by her family background. With her parents being artistic professionals, they harbored the hope that at least one of their children would become a doctor, foreseeing a reliable source of support in their twilight years.
Initially, Dr. Om aspired to specialize in psychiatry, driven by her belief in the intrinsic link between mental and physical health. However, her perspective took a turn when she was exposed to real psychiatric cases. It was during this time that she discovered her true passion and aptitude for surgery, earning her the nickname “The Best Children’s Pediatric Surgeon” during her formative undergraduate years.
Upon completing her medical studies, she chose to specialize in dermatology. Her pursuit of excellence led her to receive a prestigious fellowship, allowing her to study and practice laser technology under the mentorship of Professor Leon Goldman, a luminary in the field famously known as the “Father of Lasers.”
This remarkable experience took her to Cincinnati, Ohio. Upon her return to Thailand, she made history by establishing a groundbreaking skin laser center at the Rajdhevee Clinic. Here, she introduced cutting-edge laser treatments for the skin, blazing a trail as the first to employ such technology in Thailand.
However, a significant turning point in Dr. Om’s life occurred when she endured the profound loss of her older brother and mother to cancer in quick succession in 1997 and 1998. This deeply personal tragedy became the catalyst for her burgeoning interest in anti-aging studies and research. This life-altering experience spurred her to explore avenues that could promote longevity and overall well-being.
At present, Dr. Pakpilai Thavisin dedicates her professional endeavors to VitalLife, a renowned vitality and wellness center situated at Bumrungrad Hospital. Her commitment to holistic well-being extends beyond her medical practice as she passionately advises individuals to consider six crucial facets for their overall health and happiness:
- Nutrition: She emphasizes the importance of making mindful dietary choices to ensure proper nourishment.
- Exercise: Physical activity is key, and she encourages people to incorporate it into their daily routines.
- Fresh Air: Dr. Om underscores the significance of fresh air, which provides a vital source of oxygen.
- Rest: Prioritizing restful sleep and relaxation is essential for maintaining good health.
- Digestion: Promoting detoxification and cleansing through optimal digestion is crucial.
- Emotional Well-being: Cultivating emotional balance and mental health is equally vital.
Dr. Om concludes her wisdom with an uplifting message: “Start today, don’t defer happiness until tomorrow. The most important thing is to view the world with a positive perspective and find joy in life’s simple pleasures. While we may not always have control over our physical health, a positive attitude and a clear mind can help everyone find happiness.” Her words resonate as a testament to her unwavering dedication to well-being, both in her professional pursuits and her personal life, as a steadfast partner to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.