Dr. Fred Epstein

He operated on my husband in 1986. He was on his death bed. 38 years later he is still alive and doing well. I remember I argued with him that he could not help him for we had been thru so many surgeries before. He told me before we left New York, " If I ever get sick, I´m calling you". GOD sent DR Epstein to us....still remembering him and we will remember him for the rest of our lives.
Angela Davis Padgett
Jasper, GA

I had the honor of being in the presence of this magical man,met his dad too!Grand rounds at Bellevue.There are no adequate words.magical! Lauren deHolczer RN

Dr. Epstein operated on me when I was 10 years old back in 1983 after we saw him on "That's Incredible." My dad took my x-rays to him and he said he would operate on me. I would write letters to him and he would write back to me. In 1991 I had a spinal hemorrhage. My dad called him and he told my dad to get me there as soon as he could. I am 50 years old now and cancer free. He saved my life twice and I will never forget him.

I worked at NYU as a pediatric OT in acute care with Dr. Epstein. He invited me to observe his posterior rhizotomy surgery on my CP patient. He brought in a stool and explained to me everything! A true gem of a person inside and out. What a strong warrior he was!! I think about him often. All those children who he saved and no one would operate. Got bless you Dr. Epstein!

Fred was my Doctor in 86 I was 7 I'm 44 now I Love You Fred, you always made me laugh when you came in my room, Can't wait to give you a Hug, Not a Day goes by that I don't think of you, Thanx for being the Best

i saved a readers digest article about fred from 1994 and told his story to many parents and children to encourage them today i found the article and googled fred i am so sorry to hear of your loss. our son was killed in 2002 in the army in israel he fought so our country would be a good place to live in. fred fought for the lives of children we have so much to be thankful for .

Thank you for saving my life. I was 5 years old when you operated on my brain stem tumour. I am now 28 years old and have 3 children. You did that. I am so sorry youre not with us anymore. You truly left a mark on many lives xx

I wish I would have found this sooner, but I still wish to express my thanks and condolences.

I was only one when Dr. Fred Epstein saved my life. It wasn't until years after when I understood what had happened to me and desperately wanted to say thank you to the person who I literally would not be alive without. I wish I could say thank you in person. I'm sure my parents at the time thanked him enough for all us, but I wish everyday to show how thankful I am here because of Dr. Epstein.

At seven months old, my brain bled and a group of blood vessels had to be removed from my head. The doctors were unsure of this at first as the rupture in my brain bled and then dried, making the MRI unclear for a long time.

As I was writing an essay recently for my nonfiction Class in college, I asked my parents if they could give me any and all information about the events leading up to the discovery of the AVM and after. I had known from asking earlier in my life that Dr. Epstein was the one who performed the operation, but I did not know that he had said to my parents that he could "easily get this repaired. Dr. Epstein discovered the AVM in my head because of a new technology called Vector Vision. Instead of having a surgery that would remove a portion of my skull as another doctor had described doing, I was able to have the AVM removed easily and with minimal side effects.

Though I am weak on my left side, I often remind myself that without Dr. Epstein's help and amazing technology, things could have been much worse. I am thankful to be here. I am thankful to be here exactly the way I am. It is not a disability, but a reminder of the person who saved my life .I am unique, and I am incredibly thankful to be following my dream to become a writer. I am thankful for Dr Fred Epstein. I remind myself often how lucky I am. I was on Good Morning America shortly after the surgery and I have the VHS tape of the day in 1999 when my family and Dr. Epstein were interviewed. I watch the video to see what Dr. Epstein looks like. I watch it to hear his voice. I watch it to thank him again because I can't in person.

Dr. Epstein, thank you for saving my life. You are my hero. I will never forget what you did for me, and I will be forever grateful.

TO FRED'S FAMILY, I HAD THE PLEASURE OF ATTENDING ONE YEAR AT HALSTEAD WITH FRED. WE PLAYED FOOTBALL AND BASEBALL TOGETHER. HE WAS A GOOD SPORTSMAN AND TEAM LEADER. HE SURE WANTED TO WIN THE " BUD LORFINK " TROPHY FOR FOOTBALL, BUT I WON INSTEAD. HE TOLD ME HE HAD HOPED TO WIN IT, BUT CONGRATULATED ME WITH A HEARTY HANDSHAKE. HE WAS A GREAT PLAYER. I WILL NEVER FORGET HIM, AND I AM PROUD OF ALL HIS ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN HELPING MANKIND. MAY HE REST IN PEACE. CONDOLENCES TO HIS FAMILY.

Dear Dr Fred Epstein,

You operated on me in 1995 for a brain stem tumor and only gave me 3 months to live. I am now 23 years old today and I would like to extend my condolences and thank you for giving me life. You were the only surgeon in the states who would perform the operation and I am grateful that you did.
Because I would not be here otherwise.

I only wish that I could have said this in person. You are the most inspirational person I have ever come in contact with and your legacy will live on with all of the children's lives you have saved.

Thank you again, words can not describe how much I owe you.

Thank You Dr. Epstein for saving my life. I was one of the many children you operated while at NYU.

By: Michael Frank

To Fred's family,
Eleven years ago when I was being wheeled into the operating room, I asked Fred to keep me around at least long enough to see my son graduate from high school. You kept your promise. My handsome, kind, intelligent son graduated last weekend and my husband and I were there to proudly celebrate with him. Because of you and your team, we can plan to share many more such memories in the years to come. I'm sorry your time with your family was cut way too short. I think about you every day when I am able to do the things I can. If the length of your life was measured by the thoughts of those who cared for you, you will live forever.

Dear Dr. Fred Epstein,
you never met me, but I was the longtime girlfriend of your last patient, Michael Roach. Mike spoke fondly of you often; you allowed him to live for another 11 years. He died of causes unrelated to his spinal brain tumor, but without your help, he never would have lived to graduate, to love, and to touch the lives of so many. I think of how you allowed him more time on this strange Earth everyday. Thank you for being the man that you were and for giving hope towards the future. May God bless and rest your soul. With much love, Angelique

I've never met Dr. Epstein.. Yet, thousands of miles away, in India, he was my role model and inspiration in life.. I used to read his articles in Reader's Digest magazine when in high school, how he overcame his difficulties to become one of the most compassionate physicians ever, how he used to operate on his patients for free when they had no money, and how he inspired 'me' to become a better human being and a better doctor.. Years later, when I came to USA for my graduate studies and decided to fulfill my life's dream to meet him in person that I found he had already passed away.. I have never cried more on hearing about the death of a stranger as much as I did after hearing the news of his passing away.. I would never forget this extraordinary man and an exceedingly compassionate physician.

I just now heard of Dr. Epstein's passing and I sit here feeling a little stunned. He saved my life 12 years ago. By some twist of fate, I was able to travel across the miles from Kansas to NY. He gave me that comforting smile and told me "we can fix this". I am now married and have 2 children. I owe my life to him.

Dr. Epstein, was are most important medical advice, and an angel sent to save our son. 15 years later, we now look for the gift he has left behind, trained surgeons. Diane

Dear Epstein Family,

So many years later, 25 to be exact, I sit in my kitchen on this snowy morning thinking about the Gift of Time that Dr. Fred Epstein gave to me at 19. A teenager, interested mostly in boys woke up one day and had a seizure which resulted in a benign brain tumor. I was referred to Dr. Epstein through the GHRF Guardians of Hydrocephalus Research Foundation, as I was friends with the Fischetti Family. Dr. Epstein and his team operated on my immediately and although there was no bed space at NYU the surgery was performed at St. Vincents. I was a fiesty teenage girl that had no real clue that I wasnt going dancing in two weeks. For the next 12 months, with the support of my family and friends, Dr. Epstein helped me to recover. It was his love and support that made me feel safe and secure. Today I am a proud mother of a 16 year old boy, who is a junior in high school.

Yesterday our 17 year old cousin was diagnosed with brain cancer. My thoughts took me back to when I was 19 and how I wish today, Dr. Epstein was here to consult with. My cousin is in NYU awaiting direction after the biopsy and I found myself reseaching via internet and came across this website and guest book.

Dr. Epstein remains in my heart and I think of him often and the irony of life that he would suffer in an accident that caused him to have problems with his brain function. There is a deeper meaning to all of this that we endure and I wanted to express my feelings of gratitude to your family.

Stefanie Dortz, Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn

Dr. Epstein operated on my daughter at age 6 when others said take her home and enjoy your time with her, she is now 15 3/4. I would love for you and his family to know that we thank God every day for sending Dr. Epstein into our life. Mrs. Epstein thank you for sharing your husband with a world of people who dearly loved and appriated your husband, our hero.

I miss Dr. Fred Epstein. He operated on my 5 year old son, Matthew, who is now 14 and enjoying his life.

There are no appropriate words to describe Dr. Fred who was an Angel sent to all of us from Heaven. He saved my 3 yr old son in 1983 from a malignant medulla blastoma. Derek is now 28 yrs old and the best he can be. His passing has left a huge hole in our hearts. Heaven has gotten their best angel yet to shine in the heavens.
All our love, Cheryl & Derek Andreas

Dr. Epstein is a saint. He put my first shunt in when I was born and fixed it when I was 2, since then I have not seen him b/c my family moved to NC. When I got to college and was doing research on my condition I looked for information on this amazing doctor. I came across a e-mail address. I thought I would never get a reponse from him, but I did and I was able to keep in touch w/ him up until a few days before his death. There are no words to decribe the excitement I got every time I received an e-mail with the answers to my many questions. Receiving an e-mail from him made my day and my whole week so wonderful. The night my mom told me he passed away I could not believe it. I cried for at least 24hrs. straight. He meant so much to me. My deepest sympathies go out to Kathy and his kids. It was b/c of Dr. Epstein that I decided to become an attorney for the disabled communty. He was a wonderful person and no one will ever be able to replace him.

we will never forget you dr fred epstein. i now you take care for my brother in heaven now.my brother died at the age off 29 from a brain tumor. dr fred epstein try to save his live. that why dr fred epstein is a very special person.for ever and en ever in oure heart. claudia from holland.

How can I thank you, Kathy, and your children for sharing such a superb man with all of us. There will never be another Dr.Fred:caring,compasionate,loving and oh so humble. In 1996 he removed a tumor for my 7yr.old grandson. The first removal done 2years earlier in Detroit but the recovery was no where near as good as when Dr.Fred operated on the brain stem. He served humanity well. "Enter into the kingdom that I have prepared for you my good and faithful servant."

I am deeply saddened by the loss of the world's best Neurosurgeon!
Dr. Epstein did surgery on my son Wally in 1999 for what we thought was recurring brainstem glioma.
What he found was not recurring tumor but a whole cotton ball left behind by the first Neurosurgeon.
I will never forget his words "have I heard of this yes, but I have never seen it"!
When he walked into a room, you knew you were in the company of an Angel. He was the kindest man I have ever known. You could call or stop by his office and he always had time to talk to you and calm your fears!
I always felt like his family must have given up alot for his patients and to them I say THANK YOU! Reading his book explains just how much his family supported his cause to save children's lives!
I read about Dr. Epstein years before my son Wally was dxed and I knew in my heart I would need him one day. The very month Wally was dxed, Dr Epstein was on the cover of Readers Digest again. That was fate!
I know there is a special place in Heaven for him! He is looking over his family, children that he saved and the Doctors he has trained.
There was a question on who would replace him (there will never be another Fred Epstein) but dr. George Jallo was his assistant at Beth Israel and he was great! He is now at Johns Hopkins. I would trust him with my son's life!
Rest in peace my dear friend and THANK YOU for saving my son's life!
Linda

I first heard about Dr Epstein when I was in high school. I read this article about him and decided to make him my source of inspiration to become a physician Years later I wrote him a small note of thanks when I finished med school. Much to my delight, he wrote back..I still have that e-mail. Today, I wanted to let him know that I am graduating from my residence and I found out about his passing. He was...life itself..so what does one say when that is taken away. Dr Epstein..you told me once that our business is to serve patients and to make a difference..I promise you I will try to do my best to serve your words. Rest in peace, teacher, mentor, friend.

I just found out about Dr. Epstein's passing. I feel stunned. My daughter, Rachel, was diagnosed with medulloblastoma in 1989 at the age of 4. Dr. Epstein and his team removed it and she received follow up treatment. I remember him telling me, "We are going for the cure." Rachel is now 22, married and in college. I am forever indebted to Dr. Epstein for saving her life. I am deeply saddened.

Dr. Fred Epstein saved my brother Anthony Wines's life in 1972 at NYU. He was a wonderful human being. We frequently discussed the Doctor during family get togethers. I asked my Mom about him last night and she sadly told be about his passing. It was hard news for me and brought back a flood of memories. May God Keep him.

Dr. Epstein, you were an angel on earth and surely you are an angel in heaven. RIP.

To the entire Epstein Family,

I just heard of Fred's passing. I loved Fred's book If I get to five. My sister is a cancer survivor so I loved his inspirational story. I am so sorry to hear of your loss.

Dear Epstein family,



We were also saddened to learn of the death of your husband/father, Dr. Fred. We met Dr. Fred in February of 2001 when our 5 year old son Jack was diagnosed with a brain tumor. I remember talking to Dr. Fred on the phone and he told us to come to the hospital right away and he even was kind enough to give us directions! I remember arguing with our son to take off his cowboy boots to go meet the doctor, only to be faced with Dr. Fred's own pair! He operated on our son the day after we met him, February 14, 2001. He saved his life and for that we will always Thank God for Dr. Fred. We will pray for you and thank you for sharing your husband/father with those that needed him. May God bless you all and God Bless Dr. Fred.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------





August 9, 2006

Dear Kathy and family,

We were so sorry to hear what happened. We were shocked. We are so glad that we got to see everyone the year before in Boca at your house. We had a great visit. We were planning another visit this fall.

We will never forget all of your kindness to us in a moment of unbelievable agony. It's amazing how God works and brings people into your lives.

We had been told that Jared had an inoperable Brain tumor when he was 9 and he had a 50/50 chance of survival.

We read the Reader's Digest article in Feb 93 and immediately called the office. Jared had his tumor removed and it was 100 % successful. Three weeks after the surgery he was back in Gymnastics and succeeded going to the Jr Olympics for 5 years in a row-He competed at the ELite level for many years. To go from survival to a sport of this magnitude is unbelievable. He even played high school football for 3 years and showed saddle seat equitation at the World's Championship horseshow. Today, he is 22 and currently attending Capital Culinary School in Tallahssee, Florida to be a chef. Thanks to God and Dr Epstein !!

After the surgery, Jared had many articles written about him. He made the front page of the Palm Beach Post which just praised Dr Epstein. Jared was mentioned in Reader's Digest in the following year how he was one of 22 cases he took, out of hundreds of calls. We can never thank him enough for giving Jared the surgery. At the time we had no health insurance and he performed the surgery for free. We will be forever indebted ...

One highlight we will remember was the time you all came to the farm and he rode Chief and we went for Chinese Food (in Boca Raton), that was a great night !

When Jared had the surgery everyone was so unbelievably nice. Before he had the surgery he was very scared so Dr Abbott called and talked to him for a long time.He was afraid he wasn't going to wake up (he even wrote a will) and Dr. Abbott reassured him that it would be okay. Tania and Joanne were awesome too.

We always wanted to send something special but Fred said he liked oranges so that's what we always sent every holiday season. What do you send someone that saved your son's life ??? What an amazing and humble man. He will be forever remembered as one of God's angels..

Dear Kathy and family,

We were so sorry to hear what happened. We were shocked. We are so glad that we got to see everyone the year before in Boca at your house. We had a great visit. We were planning another visit this fall.

We will never forget all of your kindness to us in a moment of unbelievable agony. It's amazing how God works and brings people into your lives.

We had been told that Jared had an inoperable Brain tumor when he was 9 and he had a 50/50 chance of survival.

We read the Reader's Digest article in Feb 93 and immediately called the office. Jared had his tumor removed and it was 100 % successful. Three weeks after the surgery he was back in Gymnastics and succeeded going to the Jr Olympics for 5 years in a row-He competed at the ELite level for many years. To go from survival to a sport of this magnitude is unbelievable. He even played high school football for 3 years and showed saddle seat equitation at the World's Championship horseshow. Today, he is 22 and currently attending Capital Culinary School in Tallahssee, Florida to be a chef. Thanks to God and Dr Epstein !!

After the surgery, Jared had many articles written about him. He made the front page of the Palm Beach Post which just praised Dr Epstein. Jared was mentioned in Reader's Digest in the following year how he was one of 22 cases he took, out of hundreds of calls. We can never thank him enough for giving Jared the surgery. At the time we had no health insurance and he performed the surgery for free. We will be forever indebted ...

One highlight we will remember was the time you all came to the farm and he rode Chief and we went for Chinese Food (in Boca Raton), that was a great night !

When Jared had the surgery everyone was so unbelievably nice. Before he had the surgery he was very scared so Dr Abbott called and talked to him for a long time.He was afraid he wasn't going to wake up (he even wrote a will) and Dr. Abbott reassured him that it would be okay. Tania and Joanne were awesome too.

We always wanted to send something special but Fred said he liked oranges so that's what we always sent every holiday season. What do you send someone that saved your son's life ??? What an amazing and humble man. He will be forever remembered as one of God's angels..

Dearest Family of Fred,

I just learned of Fred's untimely death yesterday, 8/8/06. Words cannot express my shock and sadness. I was blessed to have worked with Fred in helping to fundraise for the incredible INN at Beth Israel. He was everything that all have noted and more. I loved his kind demeanor, his cowboy boots, his Yankee memorabilia, his office nameplate that simply read, Dr. Fred and the fact that as notable and renowned that he was...he truly made time for and cared for everyone. I have lost touch having left Beth Israel in 2002 but have always remained grateful for the opportunity to have known Fred, worked with Fred and watched him as he performed the miracles of the One, most high. I am truly sorry for the loss of your husband, father, grandfather and friend to all of us. Vickie McGinn Cummings

Dear Kathy and Family,



I am so deeply sorry to hear about Dr. Epstein's passing. This is truly a lost to the entire world. Dr. Epstein was an angel sent us for 68 years and many of us have been so touched by him. If it was not for your dear husband, I probably would not be alive today. I recently learned of his death when I was making plans to visit him for health care again. What a terrible disappointment. I don't know what to do at this point.



Unlike most of Dr. Epstein's young patients, I was 28 years old when I was diagnosed with Syringomyelia and Chiari 1 Malformation. Paralysis had started setting in in my hands when my doctors from Long Island Jewish sent me to Dr. Epstein for surgery. You see, they wanted the best to do the surgery because the disease was so rare and needed an expert. He was the best.



On June 9, 1991 I drove myself to New York Univeristy for surgery. I remember this calm, gentle, smiling doctor visiting me to assure me that everything was going to be ok. He assured me that I had too much to accomplish to think that I was going to die. I prayed for him, committed myself to God and went into surgery.



It was a shock to everyone including Dr. Epstein when I woke from surgery and found I was paralized in my lower extremity. I was devasted! Dr. Epstein came immediately to see me and just like the calm confident person that he was, assured me that they were looking into my situation and they would do the best they could to help me. After six weeks in rehab, I left still unable to walk but confident that God would restore my health. I knew Dr. Epstein was disappointed in what had happened but he knew my faith in God was strong and encouraged me to keep believing.



My recovery was long and painful. The late diagnosis of the disease had resulted in a lot of damage to my nerves and the paralysis after surgery had further complicated things but Dr. Epsteins' wonderful care made such a difference.



It took me several painful years to recover from the after effects of the disease and paralysis. Dr. Epstein provided my health care through those years. In 1998, I had a relapse in paralysis and was taken to NorthShore Hospital. But at 3:30 AM the doctors came and told me that Dr. Epstein who was now at Beth Israel asked them to send me to him right away. I was transported immediately to Beth Israel where he worked hard to bring back my mobility. I recovered after several months and thanks to Dr. Epstein, I could regain my work life again.



It is now 25 years later and I still can walk. It is difficult for anyone to tell that I had been paralized: however, I am still dealing with after effects.



I was just making plans to come back to New York to see him when my sister told me she heard on 20/20 that Dr. Epstein had died. I am still in shock. He was such a wonderful doctor. It is hard to find doctors today with the heart that he had. He has left a legacy to all of us and we thank you for shareing him with us.



I will continue to pray for you that God would comfort your hearts and that the memory of your huband, father and grandfater will bring peace, joy and hope to your hearts for years to come.



I am so glad to have met such a MAN as Dr. Epstein. We will all miss him.

Dear Kathy and family, We were so blessed to have known Fred and are saddened that our friendship was cut short in this tragic way. Our prayers are for you all as you deal with this terrible hole in your family and in your hearts. Fred was one of the most gifted and brilliant people we have ever known and yet also one of the kindest and most humble - a rare and beautiful combination!



We send you our love and our sympathy.



David & Nori Nicholas

Dear Epstein family

I am deeply saddened by your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.



I first met Dr. Fred in Dec. 1982, I was 12 and had a spinal cord tumor. Right away he was different than all the other Doctors. He greeted me with a sense of peace and confidence and he had answers. He made me feel safe and brave. My operation was a complete success. Throughout my recovery he would bring his positive energy and sit on my bed to talk, he never seamed to be in a hurry. He was amazing!



It snowed the day I left NYU. It was a new begining to my life. I grew up, graduated, married, and to the amazment and delight of many I had two beautiful and healthy babies.



Soon after my 2nd baby I started having familiar sharp pains and loss of feeling in my feet. I was devastated, but this time I knew what to do. Dr. Fred called me as soon as he saw my scans and said "you just come see me, I'll take care of you". It was Aug. 1998 and I was 27. This time it was harder for me to have the optimism I had as a child. Dr. Fred on the other hand was more confident and positive than ever. On that first visit we gave him a picture of our kids. I will never forget the way he looked at them, it waslike they were his grandkids, in many ways they are. Once again my surgery went perfect. He got even more of my tumor this time. My hospital recovery time was shorter and Dr. Fred was still interested in what was in my box from the bakery around the block.



I am now 35 and was blessed once more with my 3rd daughter. I never talked to Dr. Fred again, but we knew that "no news was good news".I will now believe in the parts of him that he left with us. I am deeply grateful for having him in my life. I didn't have the joy of being with him every day. I had the joy of every day because of him.



Thank you Epstein family for all of your sacrifices that enabled Dr. Fred to be so much to so many.

Dear Epstein Family,

What a remarkable man! We will all miss him a great deal. I remember speaking with him about a patient soon after I went into practice. I was nervous about speaking to such a great surgeon but he was so kind he put me at ease. Please know you will be in my prayers.

Dear Kathy and family,

The world has lost great human being,

With our deepest sympathies,

Roy and Pamela Bailey

In 1993, I met with Dr. Epstein to remove a tumor from my beautiful daughter, Lauren Elizabeth Hayes. He gave her & her family a second chance at life. We had beat the odds! Once again, in 1998, we flew to Beth Israel to have emergency surgery on Lauren. Once again,Dr. Fred came through to give Lauren another chance- God has surely been good to us! Lauren soon became wheelchair bound due to clubbed feet. In 2001, we heard of Dr. Epstein's accident. We cried & prayed. We are all so grateful & blessed for having met this truly compassionate & extrodinarily, brilliant man! Our paths were meant to cross, for this we are truly blessed! In August of 2005, we lost our home & neighborhood to Hurricane Katrina. Living today with a cousin,we are having volunteers helping us to rebuild our home. In the wake of all this, God decided it was time to take another angel of His back home. Our little angel, now 19, Lauren Elizabeth Hayes, was received back to Heaven on May 6, 2006. God has blessed us tremendously! Dr. Fred & lauren can now converse in joy & laughter. Together,once again! We will miss them both greatly! Thank you Dr. Epstein from the innermost depth of my heart so filled with love & gratitude for all you have done for our little angel. Our prayers are with the Epstein family during these sad & difficult trials of life. Our thanks to you also for sharing this wonderful father & husband with the rest of the world. Without his God-given skills, our childrens lives would have taken on another course. Thank you all immensely! An old Tibetan saying goes- "Everyone dies, but no one is dead," holds so true to our very existence. Til we meet again, Dr. Fred & Lauren....I love you both. Thank you for teaching me about the power of love! I have been truly blessed!

Dear Epstein family,

We were so sorry to hear of your profound loss. We feel so blessed to have been touched by his brilliant and compassionate man. Dr. Fred will always be remembered by our family as a gift from God.

With our love and prayers,

Mary Lou and Bruce Kloss

Epstien Family



Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Your loss I hope is tempered with the knowledge of how many lives Dr. Fred touched and the number of young people that were given hope and a second chance at life.



Our story started in Seattle after our daughter was diagnosed with a spinal tumor which was considered to be inoperable. We happened to read an article in Readers Digest entitled "Aaron Aligator" armed with hope we contacted Dr. Fred, in less than a week we had a date for surgery. That first meeting was in December of 1982. Dr. Fred immediately made two very scared parents and a terified 12 year old confident that we were in the right place at the right time with the right man. After surgery we asked what the prognosis would be, and were told I don't know Kim is the 12th procedure that has been done and that she would be the prognosis for all those to follow.



In 1998 the tumor had returned and we called on Dr. Fred again to provide hope and the skill to provide yet another chance at life, again all our hopes and prayers were answered.



Thanks to Dr. Fred there are three new lifes in this world that would not have exsist but for his compassion, dedication and love.

Thank you for sharing "The Man"

To the Epstein Family,



I am deeply heart broken by the news of Dr Fred Epstein's passing. I was diagnosed with a genetic Blood vessel defect in the brain at the age of 8. Dr. Fred Epstein was the only surgeon willing to operate on me. He always kept me in good spirits. His humor and compassion kept me at ease. As a child I really didn't know the effects this surgery would have on my life and thinking back I thank him profusely for saving my life. Very seldom do people encounter such a brilliant, kind and loving person and I am extremely lucky to have met Dr. Fred Epstein. His aura just brightened the room. Dr. Epstein will be deeply missed.



I want to send my deepest sympathies to the Epstein family.

To the Epstein family and friends,

I wanted to express to you my sincere sympathy. I had come to the INN in 2001 and only briefly met Dr. Epstein but was instantly aware of his "larger than life" demeanor. We are all fortunate for his dedication and his love for neurosurgery. May you find peace in knowing how many people all over the world were touched by his life and will carry on in his memory.

We were so sad to hear of the crossing over of Dr. Fred Epstein.
Because of him our son was able to live an extra 6 years.
The day we walked into his office for the first time, and he told us he knew what the problem was and could help, we were overjoyed.
Although over the next 6 years we delt mostly with Dr. Abbott, Dr. Epstein never forgot us or our son Ryan. He would stop and see him, he always was ready with a hug and conversation for Ryan and the rest of us.
When my son heard him on the radio and asked him if he could get him a tape of the radio show, he went out of his way to somehow find it. Ryan listened to it over and over. Even while at the hospital.
Ryan spent most of the last year of his life at the INN, and it was a happy place for him.
It was your husband/father's dream that made that place what it was.
We enjoyed seeing him every year at the service they would have. He never once forgot who we were.
We are so grateful to him.
To say he was an incredible man is an understatement.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
We will always remember him.

The Carew Family

Dear Kathy & Family,



We were shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Fred's passing. Had we known sooner, we would have shared our condolences in person.



In 1996, we brought our 5-yr. old daughter, Audrey, to see Dr. Fred. She had undergone numerous surgeries elsewhere and was suffering from slit-ventricle syndrome (a complication of hydrocephalus and a previous bout with bacterial meningitis). While researching this condition, nearly every medical article I found was written by Dr. Fred, or written by another Dr. (using quotes by Dr. Fred to make their point).



When we went to our consultation with Dr. Fred we were so dizzy from previous experiences in other hospitals that I asked if I could use a hand-held tape recorder to ensure that we clearly understood Dr. Fred's diagnosis. He chuckled and said "absolutely".



Dr. Fred took the time to answer any, and all, questions that we had.

He exuded such confidence and compassion that we were convinced to admit Audrey immediately for further testing. Dr. Fred hugged my distraught wife (who had never been to NYC, and did not come planning to stay) ans said "you will not leave here without a resolution to Audrey's problem".



During the six-hour operation that followed (cranial vault expansion),

Dr. Fred came out several times to give us hope & updates. He noticed that I was reading his book, "Gifts of Time". He said "I'll have to get you a hard copy of that".



Audrey's recovery was so miraculous that when he gave me the book he inscribed it..."To Audrey, Thanks for making us both look so good."



Audrey is now a healthy, beautiful 14-yr. old. She and our entire family wish to thank God, and you, for sharing Dr. Fred with us. His skills, commitment, and compassion will be forever remembered by everyone that he touched.



Eternal Love,



Greta, John, Audrey, Sean, & Mary Lintott

Kathy and Family--



Sheri and I were stunned to learn of Fred's illness and passing.



From Japan to New York, from the O.R. to the conference room, The memory of his joy in his work, love for his patients, as well as his concern for his residents will stay with us always.



Our prayers are with you.



George and Sheri

Dear Epstein Family,

When I heard of the untimely passing of Dr. Fred I was shocked and saddened by the news. Dr Epstein was my guaardian angel sent to me after months of pain, helplessness and defeat. I remember the first time I met Dr Epstein. It was in April 1982. I was nine years old and tired of seeing so many doctors and tired of being in pain. Tired of all of the guess work that the countless doctors I had visited before hand seem to display. The bright light and freshness that came in to the room when Dr. Epstein came in was a feeling I still remeber today, as if it were yesterday. Within moments Dr. Epstein was able to diagnose my spinal cord tumor and scheduled the surgery immediately. I remember his charismatic smile, his candy in his mouth and his big cowboy boots. The night before the surgery Dr. Epstein carefully explained to me what was to be done in order to take away all my pain. I remember him holding my hand until I fell asleep and holding my hand when I awoke. During days which one could look back at with despair and heartache I look back at with greatfulness and cheer. Dr. Epstein saved my life, enabled me to move on and live and fully normal and productful life.

Over the course of the next several years Dr. Epstein and my paths crossed a few times.

First when I was in NYU nursing school I was able to be in the operating room with him as a student. Before the surgery when I told him who I was thinking he would not remember me from eight years ago, he delighted me so when he knew exactly who I was. Later on after I was married and had a son of my own I had to visit Dr.Epstein in order for him to look at a bump on my son's head. How surreal it was to be back 14 years later. But it was if we had seen each other yesterday. Reminiscing about days past and Dr. Epstein, like always, putting me at ease.

Dr. Epstein was taken from this world and all those who loved him and all those whos lives he saved far to soon. What he accomplished with his time was far more than anyone could ever dream of. I thank G-d everyday for Dr. Epstein, for having him save my life and therefore allowing my four children to be born. His legacy lives on through you and through all the lives he enabled to be brought to this world through his extraordinary gift.

Thank you Epstein family for sharing your husband and father with us all. May you be comforted with the mourners of Zion and may your lives know no more sorrow.

Daniella Bernstein Schertz

(Woodmere, N.Y.)

The Greenzweig family offers it most sincere condolences to the Epstein family.

For the truly wonderful, almost miraculous work Dr.Epstein performed on my dear cousin, Christine Casey, he will be in my prayers for a long, long time.

May he forever rest in peace.

Dear Epstein family - I was shocked and saddened to hear of Dr. Epstein's resent death. I had surgery by him in 1987 for a tethered spinal cord problem that seemed inoperable by almost everyone else. His skill enabled me to do very well and to have an enjoyable life with a husband, three children and a dog. I was always impressed with his casual manner concerning his extraordinary skills. He also spoke so highly of his family. It was obvious that he had a real sense of "joie de vivre". I would say he lived a life well-lived and we are all better off because we knew him.

Dear Kathy and family of Dr. Fred,



Just wanted to send along our family's deepest sympathy and prayers for all of you at this difficult time. We were very saddened to learn of Dr. Fred's recent death. He had successfully operated on my husband, Jim, back in May, 2001, at Beth Israel, by removing 2 spinal tumors. Jim had been clear for 5 years after that operation, until this past spring when 2 new tumors returned in his spinal canal. Our entire family just went down to NYC for Jim's 3rd (overall)surgery, less than 2 weeks ago. In fact, Jim is still down in the New York area recovering at his parents' house, until he is able to fly back home (VT). Dr. Allen was the doctor Jim connected with this past spring and who put him in touch with his partner, Dr. Harter (at NYU), who also did a very successful surgery. What Dr. Fred and Dr. Harter did is buy Jim some more time. This tumor might keep coming back every so often in Jim's life, but so long as there are doctors as well-trained and dedicated as Dr. Fred, I know Jim will be alright.



I'm sure I don't need to tell you just how amazing your husband/father was, but I would like you to know just how amazing everyone else thinks he is. He is nothing short of a legend in his field and in Humanity, itself. His innovations and skills, his tenacity and compassion, his accessibility to ordinary folks needing nothing short of medical miracles were beyond measure. I will always picture him standing tall with a big, wide grin, walking in his cowboy boots around his office that looked more like a baseball shrine than some prestigious-celebrity doctor on the Upper East Side. As soon as we arrived from VT, we felt welcomed by him and his wonderful staff and were given hope. You just knew that there was no way he was gonna let this beat us--and he didn't let us down.



When we had learned of his bike accident a couple of years later, we were obviously shocked and confused about how something so terrible could've happened to someone like Dr. Fred who helped so many people. We couldn't understand it until we read his amazing book, If I Get to Five, when we realized how he had used that experience to learn first-hand what many of his own patients go through during their recoveries, and so how someone so gifted and generous as himself was able to grow even further in courage and compassion. Throughout his journey back to health he showed the world what hard work and determination can achieve. Maybe his accident slowed him down some, but in the end I suspect it just made him work that much harder, made him that much more determined. He didn't let that adversity stop him from establishing his medical legacy. Thanks to his training and surgical innovations (including holistic approaches to healing), patients now have at their disposal some of the best neurosurgeons in the world. I know we consider ourselves to be very fortunate, not only because Jim was helped medically, but because we can say we knew truly one of the greatest doctors--and human beings--ever. I'll never forget Dr. Fred--the man, the doctor, the miracle worker.



May God give peace and comfort to all of you. I can only imagine the welcome he must've received when he entered heaven and returned home to be with God, for Dr. Fred served Him and others so well. We will always be so grateful for him and keep him and you in our prayers.



Sincerely,

To the Epstein Family,



My most sincere condolences on your loss.



My surgery was in November, 1984. I was 21 years old with a 6 inch tumor on my Spinal Cord. I remember going back to see Dr. Epstein 15 years after my surgery. I wanted to present him with copies of the three Klezmer recordings that I had completed since my surgery. I wasn't sure if he would remember me. He responded, "Alan, of course I remember you, you were one of my first with the new procedure"



I will never forget Dr. Epstein, and I will be sure that my 6 year old son knows what a great, special and gifted man he was.



May you be comforted by the memories of all of the people touched by or saved by Dr. Epstein.

Dear Epstein Family, I'm sure you know how very special your Dad was. My Dad is 68 years old and he's an awsome Dad. But your Dad truly had a gift from God and knew what to do with it. Your Dad's picture is on my mantel holding my daughter Riley. He operated on her 8 years ago when Boston Children"s Hospital told us that her tumor was inoperable. Riley is now 9 years old and doing great. She just had an MRI on Wednesday. She plays 3rd base on her softball team. Your Dad would love to hear that they call her Brooks Robinson. I am walking the 26 mile Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund walk in September to help raise money to fight cancer. I am now walking for your Dad.

We are truely heartbroken to here of Dr. Epsteins death. We had the honor of meeting Dr. Epstein in Feb. 2000. It was then that our son was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Michael was 2 1/2 at the time. We put our trust, and our son, in his hands. Dr. Epstein gave us a future with Michael. For that we are and always will be beyond grateful.

His ability to comfort a family through agony and dispair was remarkable. He would let you know the facts, but guided you directly to a positive state of mind. The whole time you were around him you would only feel relief. We knew from his smiles and hugs that your child owned a piece of that mans heart, and he was going to do everything in his power for the best possible outcome.

We were brought to Dr. Epstein and his amazing team, and have not left their care. Yesterday we went to the city for Michaels MRI and follow up appt. with Dr. Jeffery Allen. It was then that we heard of this tremendous loss. The mood was somber, but the care still the same- extrodinary. We will be forever greatful for having the honor of knowing Dr. Epstein and being cared for by him and for the future we are enjoying with Michael.

Today Michael is 9 yr's old. He loves swimming, shooting his bow and arrow for target practice, and riding his trike. Thank you for sharing your Husband/Father with the world and changing the course of so many lives.

Our deepest sympothy,

The Novenche Family

I too was lucky to experience the wonderful compassion of Dr. Epstein. No, I don't have a story where he perfomed a miraculous life-saving operation. In 2000, my wife and I brought my one-year-old daughter into Dr. Epstein with mild positional plagiocephaly (irragular shape of my daughter's skull). I remember sitting in his office waiting for him, and feeling a bit guilty. I had not realized the scope of Dr. Epstein's profession, and here we were, new parents, worried about the shape of our daughter's head. Dr. Epstein was so nice, and gave us his full attention. We were new parents, and he immediately put us at ease and got us on path to resolve my daughter's issue. He said 'It's so great when I see a healthy child. She's beautiful!'. I became aware of his bike accident on TV, and was cheering for his recovery. It's a comfort to know that so many are praying for him and his family. Prayers from my family to the Epstein family in your time of loss.

Kathy,



I am so sorry to here about the loss of Dr Epstein. I was telling someone today about how thankful and blessed my husband was to have had a doctor like Dr Epstein. My husband had spinal cord surgery July 1996 (10 yrs ago)and was given very little hope of coming through his surgery until THE GREAT I AM (Lord Jesus Christ) opened doors for us to find Dr. Epstein. We were told today about your loss today and we are so sorry. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

This has been one of the hardest things to swallow for me the last few days. I just found out two days ago and it hurts.

I was a patient 7 years ago, when I was just 16. Dr. Epstein operated on me at Beth Israel, and the surgery lasted over 10 hours.

I still have the scrub mask and gloves he used to dress my stuffed frog that I took into surgery with me.



I just finished college in May, and in the last month and a half wrote Dr. Epstein a letter telling him that because of him I chose to go into health care and help others like he and his nurses helped me. He responded in an e-mail on May 29; I am so glad he knew how much me meant to me.



I feel so lucky to have known this man. He changed my whole outlook on life when he saved mine. I have never met anyone so wonderful, and so funny, and so compassionate.

This is a huge loss for everyone.



My heart hearts, and I will continue to pray for you all (Kathy and family) as you begin to endure this loss.



With Love,

KATHY--

Please accept this expression of sympathy at the sad news of the death of your husband, Dr. Fred Epstein. I am so very sorry.

Between Dr. Ransohoff and your husband, my life was returned to me in 1977 at NYU's 11th Floor East.

It has been some years since we have spoken, but I am here for you (in Connecticut).

MARGARET (STEINGLASS) WIRTENBERG

(Barnard '66)

I read the biography of Dr. Epstein after I found out my boyfriend was going to medical to become a neurosurgeon. I have read a lot about this man and he was a fantastic human being and an inspiration to all. I send my deepest condolences to the family and kiss heaven as well. I am truly sorry for your loss of what could of been an angel on earth

My heart literally broke when I heard the news about Dr. Fred Epstein. Ten years ago, on August 1, 1996, just 2 weeks shy of my 21st birthday, this amazing and most compassionate man operated on me. A benign tumor was found on the base of my cerebellum, as a flook, during a routine MRI as my doctors were trying to find the cause of my chronic migraines. Shocked and not knowing what to do we researched and asked around for recommendations and in the end we were led to Dr. Fred Epstein at the NYU Medical Center. From the moment we walked into his warm and welcoming office, we knew we made the right decision. His gentle tone, his non-alarmist, laid back approach and his kindness touched us deeply and put us at ease. Dr. Fred Epstein knew my "big" birthday was quickly approaching and he didn't want me to miss it. By squeezing me into his busy surgical schedule, I miraculously was able to go out and spend my 21st birthday with my friends. He even said if he was around that night he would stop by the bar for a drink with me-unfortunately he wasn't!



There is not a day that goes by where I do not think about this experience. Dr. Fred Epstein was a kindhearted, wonderful, intelligent, warm and loving doctor and human being. My deepest sympathies go out to his family. He will be greatly missed and will always hold a very special place in my heart.

Dear Kathy,



I was saddened to hear of the death of your husband on the television program viewed this week while we were vacationing in Canada.



When I saw the original TV story about Fred's operation on a pug dog as well as people, I had to ask myself -- is this the same handsome, sweet, and obviously talented doctor -- the tall red-headed guy who used to live across from us at the Chesapeake on East 28th Street and Third Avenue back in the sixties?



I vowed then to call you and him and tell you your former neighbor still thought of you and your two happy little Maltese dogs and the few nice times we had together. But I never got around to making the contact.



Today, Kathy, I see the obituary for your husband and my heart breaks. As it turns out, my ex-husband Peter and I divorced in 1971 in Florida and married other people to whom we are still married. My present husband and I lived in Boston, Massachusetts for 30 years, and I worked for a company in Stamford, Connecticut. I frequently passed through Greenwich, CT and wish I had gotten in touch.



Regrettably, my ex-husband is now terminally ill with cancer and has been given only a few more months to live.



I hope you see this message and understand that we all must live in the moment. Life can change in a second -- in 1995, my husband fell off a ladder more than 30 ft., broke his arm and lost so much blood that they thought he would die.



Anyway, I hope they accept all of this for the guestbook, and I hope you read it.



Perhaps I can call you sometime if I can locate your telephone number.



In peace,



Ellen Kimball (Rabow)

Portland, Oregon

I had the honor of working with Fred in 1970 at NYU when I was a new graduate RN. We were both trained at the feet of the Master Joe Ransohoff. We learned skills, compassion and respect. We were colleagues, co-conspiritors and students. It was an amazing time and Fred took all of it to three levels beyond any of us.



Over the years I followed Fred's career and courage with great admiration. He was a beacon, a pioneer and a blessing to so many people.



I'm honored to have been a small blip in his life.

i knew Dr. Epstein for years. i first met him as a patient at nyu. later on in life i worked with one of his daughters at the Hassenfield center in manhatten. i later on in life ran into issues do to my disabilty with spina bifida and had a teathered cord that was taking my ability to walk, away. and major back pain. and so on. needless to say i knew he had to be the one to operate on me. i tracked him down to beth israel hospital at the time. and needless to say, that man saved my life. yes my life. i would not be walking today if it wasnt for him.he also said that my insureance did not cover the hospital stay. he said forget about it. he also sent my mom home in a cab cuz we forgot the MRI scans for the sugury. he paid for that. i was on the table ready for sugury at the time. i am soo sorry i missed the service. and if at all his family reads this. please contact me, i am in deap sorrow, i cried when i saw this news cast on 20/20 friday night. i am still in schock. god took an angel from us on sunday. this world was changed because of this man, no.. this saint in a mans skin.

From someone who only knew Dr. Fred Epstein for a very short while, flew into New York for surgery, and flew back to Arizona, my prayers go out to the family. He will be greatly missed, he had such a gentle bedside manner, so concerned, and listened to all your questions and answered them to his best of knowledge. I will always treasure his autographed book and remember what great accomplishments he did for me and others less fortunate.

God be with you, Dr. Epstein.

I first met Fred in 1990, during a time when I was being paralyzed by one of my shunts. He did the first surgery for that problem, along with six subsequent revisions that same year. Since 1998, I have been cared for by Dr. Abbott, but Fred would always stop in to see me when I was in the hospital. So I have been twice blessed by Fred and Dr. Abbott. Fred was a star as a human being when he was on this Earth, even though he didn't act as such. But we can take comfort in the fact that now he is truly one with the stars in the universe.

To the Epstein Family,

Not a day has gone by in the past six years that I don't thank G-d for the gift of my life and health which Fred gave to me. I was a 45 year old wife and mother when Fred and his team operated on me. Because of their skilled intervention, my 13 year old son, my husband and and I have been able to build a wonderful family life together based on love, compassion and doing for others.



After my surgery, I changed my career from accounting to helping others. I try to use the gift of life that Fred returned to me to benefit other people. I hope your cherished memories of your husband, father and grandfather bring you some comfort during your time of bereavement. Fred's legacy will live on through his family, the patients he treated and their grateful families, and the numerous neurosurgeons he trained.



Thank you for sharing Fred with all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

With much love,

The Homans Family (Susan, Bud and Zach)

I first heard of the good doctor on 20/20. My aunt suffered the same type of bicycle accident and similiar outcome as Dr.Epstein.

I am touched by not only Dr.Epstein's wonderful accomplishments but the fact that he was touched by a poem of one his dying patients: that is when Dr.Epstein shared that it was not about the technological and scientific accolades but rather the human experience and the connection. This was apparent after his accident,when he stayed connected with the field he loved through the patients he helped. Although his prior technological ability hindered after the accident, his true spirit of compassion lived on and was fully present. The world needs more of that above all. I was truly touched by his life experience, what a great life in every aspect, he was truly a blessed man.He will be missed. May his love live on through his family and all he touched.

Dear Epstein family,



I knew Dr. Epstein only through the media and his national reputation as a skilled neurosurgeon. I was thrilled to read of his successes with children through the pages of Reader's Digest over the years, and to see him on ABC's 20/20. I was deeply saddened when I learned of his bicycle accident years ago, and I prayed that he would recover. I am so grateful that he was able to help so many patients and to share his knowledge with others. I am also grateful that he had a loving family to care for him and love him every step of the way.

I hope that the scriptures give you comfort in these sad times. May the words at Isaiah 25:8 bring you comfort; "He will actually swallow up death forever, and the Sovereign Lord Jehovah will certainly wipe the tears from all faces..."

May you have peace this day.



Sincerely,

Lisa Wright

To the family, friends and co-workers of Dr. Epstein,

I saw a brief profile of Dr. Epstein tonight on ABC. What a wonderful man, what a wonderful doctor. My life is just that much less because our paths did not cross. His work will live on in the hearts and minds of those he touched. Those of you who have been blessed to know and love this man I trust will carry on his legacy.

From one of many whose life has been touched by Dr. Epstein, my sincere condolences.

I met Dr. Epstein in October of 1987. I was 10 years old. I had been born with a-typical spina bifida, but it wasn’t until ’87 that I needed to be operated on. At that age I didn’t fully understand what was happening to me, but I absolutely trusted and loved Dr. Epstein – Fred. His compassion, sincerity and sense of humor made me feel at ease. I couldn’t have known the impact he would have on the rest of my life then, but he certainly changed me. He saved my way of life and my quality of life. He gave me a physical freedom and an outlook on life that I cherish.



Today I’m 29. I was recently operated on 5 months ago by Dr. Abbott – a long time friend and colleague of Fred. I was once again saved – both the quality of it and my physical freedom. So I have been doubly blessed in my life.



To have known a man such as Dr. Fred Epstein is to have known an extraordinary human being. Something most people never get to do. I am so thankful to him, it’s almost impossible to find all the words to convey it. I do know that Fred was nothing short of an angel and this world is not the same without him in it. But I find comfort in believing that he is in a better place and that he is at peace. For he has done nothing but good with his life. He was selfless, and unwavering in his love for children – his love for life in general. He will be missed - by me, my family and the thousands of people whose lives he has touched and saved.



God Bless Dr. Epstein… may your memory and legacy live on.



Forever Grateful,

Christine L. Casey

Fred was the teacher of my neurosurgeon, George Jallo. While I was preparing for surgery, I wrote to Fred and he, very generously and kindly, wrote back. I later sent him a photo of George and I, nine days post-op. He was delighted. I didn't know he was ill at the time. A truly brave, generous and kind man, he has meant much for many. I hope we, in our own ways, can carry on in the works he has continued and started.

My husband had heard of Dr. Epstein and knew he was "the guy to call" when our son was diagnosed with hydrocephalus after a brain bleed. I was pleasantly surprised that my husband was able to get him on the phone as well as get an appointment right away. I have to admit i was a little scared, because i never met a neurosurgeon, let alone one who wore cowboy boots and a funky multicolored surgical scrub hat. He kept referring to our son as "she" and i gave my husband a look and then he said "I know, you're wondering how i'm a neurosurgeon" His door was always open and he treated everyone in a most dignified manner. When our baby was hospitalized at Beth Israel North, one of the night orderlies was telling us how Dr. Fred had a big party at his house and always included everyone. That's what kind of guy he was- one that treated everyone with respect. He was compassionate to those in tough situations as well as patient. I heard him speak years later at a high school in Chappaqua about growing up learning disabled. He spoke very personally about his situation and was truly an inspiration (as well as very funny). I feel lucky to have met him. My condolences to his family on the loss of this great man.

Dear Kathy and family,



Our hearts are so heavy as we share the loss of Fred with you. What a profoundly great man your husband and father was. Few people will leave this earth with the legacy that he has, both professionally and personally. What an honor it is to have known him!

I can recall so vividly the moment when we first met Fred. We were a terrified and distraught couple who had brought our 3-year-old daughter, Kelsey, to 'the big city' to be saved by this renowned man. He emerged from a closet-like room where he had just reviewed the MRI's of her brainstem tumor. I remember the way he carried himself, somewhat hunched from the endless hours in the OR. He gave us hope where others had not, and months later removed enough of her tumor to finally end the 'spells' that had traumatized her for over a year. He gave us our life and our daughter back.

I also cannot forget the ambiance that he brought to the 9th floor of NYU. The world of pediatric brain cancer can be a very dark place. But he, so often with Tania at his side, consistently brought light to it as he strolled the halls on his rounds. There was almost an aura about him, and he exuded hope. There is no other way to describe it. We have met many angels along the way in our seventeen year journey, and Fred was certainly the first.

We have enormous gratitude for him - pioneering operating in the brainstem, graciously sharing what he knew, training other neurosurgeons, his honesty, integrity and huge heart. We have gratitude for you, his family, as well. Thank you for sharing this amazing man with us. Undoubtedly, he missed many a family event because of his unique skill and dedication to children like Kelsey. He, as well as you, will forever be in our hearts.

God bless you all, and know that Fred and you are loved by many.



Janet, Stuart, Kelsey and Braelynn Hawkins

Dear Kathy, Joey, Ben and Epstein extended family,

The Gibbs family send our deepest sympathy on your loss. Fred was one of a kind and he will truly be missed. Our thoughts and prayer's are with you.

Giselle, Michael, Ali & Adam

To Kathy and family,



My deepest sympathy to you in the loss of your husband, father, grandfather.

Dear Kathy & Family,

We are so sorry to hear about Fred.

It was March 1971 when our daughter was born with Spina Bifida and Fred was there to help her. He was the most loving man I have ever met. each time Alison needed surgury he was always there to fix her problem.

When we moved to Kansas Alison would always go back to NY and see Fred for what ever medical procedure she needed and once again he would fix it.

His smile and his love for each of the children that he has helped in this world will always be remembered. Today Alison is 35 years old living on her on and working for the Topeka Assocation for Retarded Citizens and loving every minute of life. We thank you Fred for giving us 35 wonderful years and I know Alison thanks you also.

Words cannot say and I shall not attempt ....

Dear Kathy, the Epstein children, grandchildren,

I want to share with you what Fred meant to our family.

In 1987 our first son Tory 19 months old was diagnosed with a brainstem tumor. We were referred to Fred. In the weeks following surgery there was a great deal of controversy surrounding the medical course that should be followed. Fred's opinion was not consistent with many of his colleagues. Fred reviewed and re-evaluated his recommendations and findings and firmly stood his ground.

As parents, we were shocked and overwhelmed because only days before we believed that we had a healthy child. We were overwhelmed and overcome with grief and anguish. There were conflicts around the pathology of this tumor and no consensus could be reached on how to treat it. We sat down with Fred and asked what he would do if this were his child. He was very pensive and replied,"If this were my child I would go home with him and watch and wait. If this is the malignancy they say it is the 8 drug chemotherapy they're recommending will take away the quality of his life and it will not change the outcome. He is too young and it would be too devastating. If this is a low grade tumor, the recommendation is to watch and wait. You will live MRI to MRI.

At that moment we learned something very important about Fred and that was about his honesty, integrity, and his main value of treating children respectfully as children. He understood that this was our child we were talking about not a medical experiment. He treated the fact that this was "our" child with the utmost caring and concern for maintaining the quality of life of a child.

From that moment, we knew that on this journey, we would have to choose someone to trust and that someone would be Fred.

In 1989, Tory's tumor recurred just before his 4th birthday. I was 9 months pregnant. Years later, Joanne Baldwin told me how she remembered that day and how difficult it was for Fred to break the news that Tory would need more surgery. She described Tory walking down the hall at Rusk in his batman costume.

Fred operated and this time chemotherapy was started. Our son Jordan looked healthy at birth but unfortunately at 3 months old, while Tory was on chemotherapy was diagnosed with a genetic disease called Werdnig Hoffman disease. He died shortly before he reached 7 months. Within days we were back in Fred's office as we often were with Tory at that time. I will never forget this day as Fred extended his condolences to our family.

Tory eventually completed the 18 months of chemotherapy.

In 1992 we adopted our daughter Jesse. Fred seems overjoyed for us when we brought Jesse to meet him at one of Tory's appointments. He asked me to PLEASE speak to Tania about adoption. And so, began the next level of our relationship with Tania.

In 1994 Tory's tumor again recurred and he was quite sick this time. It was very scarey as surgery after surgery could not control the rapid growth any longer. Chemotherapy no longer worked. Eventually Fred helped us to make the decision to go forward with radiation.

Tory is now 20 years old and just completed his 2nd year of college as an accounting major. He is happy, and healthy and faces his own challenges with dignity, integrity and grace.

I gave Tory life the first time, Fred gave him the gift of the rest of his life.

Fred taught us some of our most important life lessons along with Tory. I could never have chosen this journey and yet I can't imagine having gone through this life without the privledge of having personally known Fred.

Over the past 5 years I have felt blessed every time I had the opportunity to see Fred and Kathy at his side. I have been so grateful that Fred has been surrounded by his remarkable family. We've watched and learned as he faced his own challenges and been inspired by him once again. We learned as we watched your family love and care for Fred through this.Those are memories that will always be with me. Fred was unique in every way and has been taken from you and from us too soon. We are so very sad.

I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to spend the day in early May at the Montefiore conference with Fred and Kathy. I will hold that day close to my heart as I will hold Fred's lessons for eternity.

We hope that each of you find strength and healing from one another.

We loved Fred and we love each of you.



Linda, Zev, and Tory Wachtel

Dr. Fred Epstein was the most intrepid champion of children with very difficult brain lesions. He dared to go where all others often feared to go.



He was rightly known for his surgical skills and innovations. He was less well known for the rapport he had with his young patients. But the children knew that side of him, and that is all that seemed to matter to him.



He cared for many patients with Neurofibromatosis (NF), who often develop difficult and sometimes life threatening brain lesions. Dr. Epstein created better lives for them.



All of us in the NF community are endebted to him and will cherish his life's work and memory.



Peter Bellermann

President Emeritus

The Children's Tumor Foundation

(formerly known as the National Neurofibromatosis Foundation)

Dear Epstein Family,



We met Dr. Epstein in Dec. 1987 , he was reffered to us by a family doctor I worked for years prior ,when our daughter 10 months old at the time was diagnoised with an AVM, at our visit our daughter slept in my arms while he reviewed the cat scan..and he assured us he could take care of her and she will recover...he reffered us to his associate Dr Wisoff..Our Daughter is now 19 and doing wonderful!!..He made us feel so confident and less afraid about the whole situation.



Five years later I too was diagnosed with a bleeding AVM..he gave my husband his home phone # if he needed him and reassured us once again all would be well...



As I was waitng to be taken into the operating room he appeared and said would a kiss help the worry...He was truly a compassionate wonderful person.



Our deepset sympathies!



Cioffi Family

Dear Kathy and family,



Our deepest condolences to all of you during this painful time. I can't express my feelings well enough but please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Fred's compassion, love of life and genuine devotion to family and children will never be forgotten.

Dr. Epstein:

In 1975, you alone, saved our son, Jonathan's life, when he suffered a blood clot on his brain following an auto accident. Your miracle went far beyond just saving his life or our family from destruction. You see, Jonathan has just been appointed Chief of Vascular Surgery at Beth Israel Hospital and our hope is that he will be able to pay forward your remarkable gift. Our only regret is that Jon wasn't able to tell you this in person.

The loss of Dr. Fred Epstein is immeasurable. He was a gifted neurosurgeon who pioneered countless proceedures and techniques, an innovator who brought the best medical minds together to improve brain tumor treatments, a caring physician who gave his patients hope and comfort, and simply an extraordinary human being.



We will never forget the evening many years ago when he drove to Brooklyn after a long day of surgery, to address a small parents' support group about the issue of pediatric brain tumors. Despite his world fame and hectic schedule, he was not too busy to answer our questions, give encouragement and provide sage advice.



Jewish tradition states that after death, a person's soul goes to the next world carrying the good deeds one accomplished in this life. Fred Epstein's soul is accompanied by a heavy load, indeed.



May his memory be a blessing.

The Jegle/Rogers family send their deepest sympathy for a great man. He was more to people than you can know..

"Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy."



He will be missed. All our love

I never met Dr. Epstein, I only know him through my boss, another pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Michael Edwards in California. I was introduced to Dr. Epstein through his book "If I Get to Five: What Children Can Teach Us About Courage" and also through many stories of the Epstein and Edwards family outings - he was truly a wonderful human being. I'm so sorry for the loss of this special man.

I don't have much that is poignant or comforting to say right now, I'm afraid - I just keep thinking how sorry I am that I didn't get to see Dr. Epstein the last time I was out visiting Ilana. Someone else already noted how Dr. Epstein was always glad to see their son during follow-up visits to the hospital, no matter how many years had gone by or how busy or tired Dr. Epstein might be. That is one of the qualities that I will remember as long as I live - how honestly interested he was in the people who came into his life, how gracious and caring, and how those qualities were even sweeter and more refined in him in those final years. I don't think that I ever saw or read a story about him after the accident without crying, in fact - not because I felt sorry for him, but because I just admired him so much, and really loved him. I'll miss him, and I know it's nothing compared to your loss - you're all in my prayers, and I will see you at the memorial service.

Our very deepest sympathy to
kathy andall the
Epstein
families.

Dear Mrs. Epstein and family,



I am so sorry to hear about the loss of one of the most compassionate doctors that I have ever met. I was introduced to Dr. Epstein in 1990, when my daughter Sarah was diagnosed with hydrocephalus. He saw us immediately and operated on her within the week. I remember his reassuring words, as he gave me hope that she would live a normal life. Sarah is now 16 and entering her junior year in High School. She is an honors student, who is planning on studying marine biology. We were honored to have met such a great man, and I will always be thankful.

Sincerely, Sharon, Mark, Rachel and Sarah Hochberg

Fred Epstein was my teacher, mentor and friend. In addition to his well known contributions to Neurosurgery, he was best known for his humanistic qualities. He had the most generous heart any man could have. He made a difference in my life. My deepest condolences to Kathy and the family. I will never forget him.

Spenser, Joy and I first met Fred Epstein in May 1991. Spenser was just diagnosed with a horrible looking brain stem tumor that spread from the cerebellum to the upper cervical cord. He was 2 years and 10 months old. We will never forget the way Dr. Epstein referred to Spenser's vitality as he told us "I will do the least amount of surgery to get the greatest benefit and return him to you just as he is, without destroying his integrity."

Our journey turned into a fourteen year odyssey, and Fred was to operate on Spenser two more times.



When we learned of the accident in 2001 it was with great sadness since we knew just how many other children would be denied the opportunity of experiencing not only his magical surgical wizardry but also his compassion and wisdom.

The boundary that he set between his patient and his feelings was a one that seemed penetrable at times. I remember so many evenings after the last surgery on 2000 watching as he made his evening rounds by himself, slowly walking into each room with the familiar sound of the cowbay boots which was his relaxed attire. He knew how to handle each parent so well and would tell us, "your not stopping into my office enough if you feel this way, all you have to do is focus on today."



We understood his piece of the war on fighting the brain tumors, but there was no substitute for knowing him since his approach was personal and sincere.



When Spenser shared with him the perspective from the patient in "IF I GET TO FIVE" I understood that their two minds had melded and I always wondered what it could have possibly been like to actually be in someone's head.



With Fred's devastating accident we all prayed for the miracle and we know how much his family did also. The dedication that they showed and the dignity that was his from both sides of the health care spectrum will always be an inspiration to anyone who needs a life lesson. Don't sweat the small stuff, take one day at a time and live each day with the love and passion for life passion was certainly the Fred Epstein Creedo.



His place in pediatric surgery was well established, his personal love of family and all that it means to keep on going throughout difficult times is something he wanted to learn from his young patients, was he a quick learner, and he passed that on to all of us.



We will all miss him know that his soul will be bound up in the bond of life. Thank you for sharing him with us.

I had the honor to work with Dr.Epstein many years ago. He was an incredible man. Although I have lost touch with him over the years, I always found him to be one of the most brillant physicians I have ever met and one who most certainly made a difference in the lives of many sick children. He will be greatly missed.

Dr. Epstein took care of and was a beacon for my nephew Spenser Scharfman (diagnosed at almost 3 and died last year at 17). There is an ache in the universe at Dr. Epstein's absence. May his family be richly surrounded by all that comforts them. Dr. Epstein's legacy lives.

Dear Mrs. Epstein and family,

We, the Harris Family, are so sorry to hear of the passing of this great and compassionate man.



He was a critical person in our lives as we met Dr. Eptstein in 1988 when our son was 5 months old. Our son, Michael, was born with an AVM which was discovered by a doctor in Danbury, CT. We were referred to Dr. Eptstein at NYU. Dr. Epstein made time to meet with us personally and gave us hope that the AVM might be able to be fixed. Even though Dr. Epstein referred us to Dr. Berenstein for embolization procedures which saved my son's life we often stopped in to visit Dr. Epstein and show him how well Michael was doing over the years. He loved seeing that Michael was growing and living a normal life. Dr. Epstein always made time to visit with us even though sometimes he seemed so tired and overwhelmed. We were always thankful and very honored to have met such a great man.



There will not be any way to replace such a man as Dr. Epstein. I hope all the many lives he touched and the wonderful memories he created around the world, and in his own backyard with his family, will help you all through this sad time. He will be missed by so many people near and far. Thank you for sharing him with us.



Most Sincerely, Bob, Nancy and Michael Harris

Dr. Epstein was the chief neurosurgeon when I was 6 years old. I have not seen him since then (18 years), but always read about him and saw him on t.v. His death has deeply touched me. What a great man he was.