Dear Doctor Samadi!
I just want to take the time to thank you and your staff, particularly Anna and Helen, for the genuine care and compassion that was bestowed upon me and my family during this difficult time.
As you know, I was alerted to the potential of having prostate cancer in January of this year due to an elevated PSA at 6.83, and then a second test in March of 4.8. I had a biopsy in May that confirmed that I did, in fact, have prostate cancer.
Once officially diagnosed, I began the long process of researching and weighing in on the different treatment options; considering both the short term and long term implications to my health and overall well-being. I began to gather information by talking to doctors, urologists and other men who have had prostate cancer. The number of options available to me seemed overwhelming; having to make a decision that would ultimately impact my long-term health was, and rightfully so, not an easy one. Then one day, on the suggestion of my local urologist, I contacted Dr. Carl Olsson, Chairman Emeritus of Columbia University. He examined me and suggested I get in touch with you for another evaluation.
On June 30, 2006, accompanied by my wife and daughter, I made a visit to your office. Electing to make that visit was perhaps the most important decision I have ever made. It was as a direct result of our confidence in you and your abilities and experience that I decided, then and there, to have a Robotic Laparoscopic Prostatectomy.
On September 8, 2006 you performed the surgery on me to remove my cancer. I could not have been more pleased with the speed at which I was able to recover. As early as that evening I was able to walk around the hospital, and I was home the next day and getting around quite well. My experience with you has shown that not only are you a very intelligent and capable surgeon, but you are also a person able to show great compassion and understanding towards your patients and their families. Even to the extent to give me your personal e mail address and cell phone number.
I had my six week visit with you on Oct. 24, 06 and my PSA was down to zero. The anxiety that accompanied my initial diagnose, a burden that I had carried with me for close to a year, had finally dissipated. I had kicked my cancer thanks entirely to you.
Again, on behalf of myself and my family, I just want to thank you for your compassion, capableness and concern during this difficult time. As a result of having had a Robotic Laparoscopic Prostatectomy I can now look forward to a long and cancer-free life.
Sincerely,
B. Koenig
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