Ding Ganren,
courtesy name Zezhou,
was one of the four great physicians of
the Menghe medical school.
Life Journey of Ding Ganren
Documentary about his life
1896
A severe epidemic of "Scarlet Fever" (Lanhousha) broke out in Shanghai. Ding’s innovative "Integration of Cold and Warmth" (Hanwen Tongyi) therapy saved countless lives, making him a household name. He established his own clinic and residence on Fuzhou Road.
1866-1885
Born in Menghe Town, Ding Ganren began studying the Treatise on Febrile Diseases (Shanghan Lun), entering the world of medicine due to family financial hardships. He later studied under Ma Zhongqing, Ma Peizhi, and the Chao family.
In 1885, he left Menghe for Suzhou to practice medicine. Faced fierce competition and initial poverty.
1910
"Broad Benevolence to the Masses" by Sun Yat-sen
Risked his life to hide and treat three wounded members of the Tongmenghui (Revolutionary Alliance). He was later awarded a plaque inscribed "Broad Benevolence to the Masses" by Sun Yat-sen.
1916
The Gate of The Shanghai School of Special Chinese Medicine during the Republican era
The Shanghai School of Special Chinese Medicine (the first formal modern TCM educational institution in China) officially opened. Ding served as the Director/Chairman. He established the school motto: "Refinement, Sincerity, Diligence, and Devotion" (精诚勤笃).
1918
Founded the South and North Guangyi Chinese Medicine Hospitals to serve as clinical internship bases for students while providing free medical care to the poor.
1926
He devoted his later years to school management and clinical teaching. At 1926, Ding Ganren passed away in his residence on Weike Road, Shanghai, due to exhaustion and illness.
Ding Ganren's Former Residence
1866
1872
1878
1881
1885
Born in Menghe Town, Wujin, Jiangsu Province.
Entered a private school to study the Four Books and Five Classics, establishing a strong foundation in classical Chinese literature.
Began studying the Treatise on Febrile Diseases (Shanghan Lun), entering the world of medicine due to family financial hardships.
Formally apprenticed to his cousin Ding Songxi to learn the theories of Fei Boxiong. He later studied under Ma Zhongqing, Ma Peizhi, and the Chao family, mastering internal medicine, external medicine, and throat specialties.
Left Menghe for Suzhou to practice medicine. Faced fierce competition and initial poverty.
1894
Recommended by Chao Chongshan to practice at the Renji Benevolent Hall. During this period, he also studied under the Scarce Cold (Shanghan) master Wang Lianshi.