A. Bernard Ackerman M.D.

December 8, 2008 was a day that we lost such a brilliant dermatologist, outstanding teacher and philosopher and dedicated scientist. Bernie was one of the few that left behind such a profound influence in Dermatology and Dermatopathology. I am happy that I was so lucky to be with him for a while, but at the same time feel sad how so soon we lost him. Bernie, We will love you and miss you always.

Dr. Ackerman's lessons about the pathology of the skin continue to enlighten over 7 years after his passing. Thank you, Bernie, for such a great legacy.

24 years ago Dr. Ackerman, as a favor to my step father Harold Wagenberg (a dermatologist) reviewed my case and determined I had melanoma on the upper right back of my skin. I thank him for that quick diagnosis and quick treatment.
Unfortunately last week I was diagnosed with "consistent with metastatic melanoma" currently only in my lymph nodes under my right arm (PET SCAN and a pathologist review of biopsy).
I know this is not the best forum to ask this, but if anyone knows who...

What more can I say new. I echo everyone's sentiment and sadness. One personal regret I have though; is that "you" will not be here to receive my five year effort dedicated to you- An Abridged Dermpath "Dictionary". For 20 years plus you have talked of this and I have been working "overtime" to deliver. I know, Bernie, you would say "Thank you, and do not worry, in my next incarnation I will read it. I hope you got it right, Bruce."

(Who still "listens" to you all the time!)

I just wanted to add that there is a tribute to Dr. Ackerman at http://drbremer.blogspot.com/2009/03/tribute-to-dr-ackerman.html.
I am grateful for his clinical care and hope other physicians emulate him.

Dr. Ackerman called me on New Year's Eve 2004 to tell me he profoundly disagreed with other famous pathologists about my daughter's lesion. He knew I would want to know right away that he thought it was completely benign and they were full of nonsense. I have never been so grateful to anyone, I think. I still am. My daughter four years later is perfect. I think he was right. God bless him. I am so sorry he has passed.

He brought dermatopathology to life for me, and everything he wrote was pure enjoyment to read. My sincere condolences to all who, like myself, will very much miss him.

Bernie;Thank you very much for teaching me not only dermatopathology, but also how to think in a critical ways.
Have a good sleep...
You're always in my heart...

Bernie, I did not train under you in dermatopathology, but I and others learned so very much from your writings and lectures. I enjoyed our occasional times when I was able to visit you and join you for lunch and dinner. Saying that you were a legend in dermatopathology does not say enough. You always gave your trainees and me a lot of encouragement; I tried to return the favor when you were under attack from those who did not like hearing alternative views. Once you told me that I was a...