Michael O'Brien

I just found out about Dr. O'Brien 's passing. I was his assistant for 4 years before he left to Texas. I am deeply saddened to hear he passed. He was like a father and a mentor to me. I started working with him when I had just turned 22 and he gave me an opportunity to be his assistant even though I had 0 experience. I learned and grew so much those years. He cared so much about each patient, each worker, and every person he came accross. I have alwasy and will always admire his heart, his...

I knew "Mikey" back in Lafayette, NJ, and then Brooklyn. A dear friend. Any time I hear a Linda Ronstadt song, I think of him.

I recently learned of Dr. Obrien's death and wanted to express our sadness in his passing. He profoundly affected our lives! Not only did he operate on my husband's spine but my sister as well. We were without hope when no one would help my husband and by God's will were referred to Dr. O'Brien by another one of God's angels among us. He studied the x-rays and announced he could fix the problem in 45 minutes but he would only take the case if my husband promised him he would be the only...

I am deeply saddened to just learn about this recently. Dr. O'Brien changed my life. I had felt like I had no hope and no future and he gave me that back. His work allowed me to be whoever I wanted to be, someone who was not defined by a long list of physical limitations or being the "crippled girl". I know would not be the person I am today without his work and the years he dedicated to improving the lives of people like me. I carry pieces with me, both literally in my spine and...

God Speed my friend, it will be good to see you in the next life full of perfection and glory.

Shocked and sad to hear of Mike’s passing - he was a great guy - I worked with him when he was doing his spine fellowship at Wash U in St. Louis and saw him at meetings over the years after that. Rest In Peace Mike!

Dr O'Brian was my back doctor and did surgery on me in 2006. He was kind, compassionate and also an expert spinal deformity surgeon. He rescued me from excruciating pain when none other could and for that I will always be grateful. May his family be comforted from all the prayers of friends. Thanks so much Dr. O'Brien rest in peace.

He was a very kind and compassionate doctor who rescued me from so much pain when no other doctor I knew could; and for that I am forever grateful.
May his family rest in peace.

What a beautiful tribute to Mike !
Our sympathy to all
The Shimkus Family