Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

About

Syracuse University

FUNERAL HOME

Riverside Memorial Chapel - New York

180 West 76th Street

New York City, New York

DANIEL PRESENT Obituary

PRESENT-- Dr. Daniel H.

A brilliant, creative, and abundantly loved giant has left us. Dr. Daniel H. Present, born April 3, 1934, passed away on January 12th from complication of Parkinson's Disease. He was 81 years old. His passing will be deeply mourned by Jane Werner Present, his wife, partner, lover and best friend of more than 59 years, his three children, their spouses, and four grandchildren, Tracy Present, Stephanie, Michael, Billy and Katherine Podalak, Douglas, Susan, Adam and Margot Present, and his sister Judy Present Liss; his friends, associates and the thousands of lives he touched during his 50 years of practice. Dan graduated from Syracuse University Magna Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa in 1955 and State University of New York Downstate College of Medicine, Magna Cum Laude, in 1959. He completed an internship, medical residency, Gastroenterology residency and GI Fellowship at Mt. Sinai Hospital, and entered private practice in 1964, where he quickly began to focus his attention on the management of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. He was the recipient of the first research award given by the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. Dan brought clinical trials into clinical practice. His first paper was accepted for publication in 1966. He subsequently published 329 papers. At the time of his retirement, his publications had been cited more than 15,000 times. During his 54 years at Mt. Sinai, he served as President of both the Association of the Attending Staff and the Alumni Association for which he received the coveted Jacobi Medallion for Conspicuous Service to the Alumni. Dan received every award in his field including the Samuel Bronfman Department of Medicine Distinguished Service Award, The American Gastroenterology Association Distinguished Clinician Award, Master of the American College of Gastroenterology, The WiIIiam Dock, M.D. Master Teacher Award in Medicine State University of New York, the Janssen Award for Outstanding Achievement Award in Clinical Gastroenterology, the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America Lifetime Achievement Award and the George Arents Award for Excellence in Medicine, the highest achievement awarded by Syracuse University. He is generally recognized as having pioneered the way Crohn's disease is treated. More than any recognition, Dan loved taking care of his patients. He loved them and they returned that love many times over. His joy came from sparing his patients the pain, discomfort, and humiliation of inflammatory bowel disease by finding the right combination of medications and thoughtful creativity. He fought against surgery if there was a possible medical solution. He talked with his patients for many more hours than any HMO wouId have allowed. He sat at their bedside and visited them late at night, he celebrated when they felt better. Nothing made him happier than a college student being able to return to school, or a young adult feeling well enough to plan a wedding or bear a child. He loved teaching young Gastroenterologists and, along with a grateful patient, created the Present-Levison fourth year fellowship in Clinical GI, which allowed the brightest young men and women to spend a post-graduate year learning clinical GI at Mt. Sinai. These fellows now care for IBD patients all over the world. Funeral services will be held on Thursday at 12pm at "The Riverside," 180 West 76th St., New York. Contributions in Dan's memory may be made to the Present-Levison Fellowship at Mt. Sinai, and sent to the Division of Gastroenterology, Mt. Sinai Hospital, Box 1069, New York, New York 10029.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by New York Times on Jan. 13, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for DANIEL PRESENT

Sponsored by Anonymous.

81 Entries

Bobbie Horowitz

January 7, 2022

I've already visited the burial ground an donated. Daniel Present helped my wonderful sister live to 54 years old. they thought she would pass as a pre-teen. I bless Dan Present again and again. I've commented before and I can't help but express the thankfulness I feel for his having lived! I think of him often.

Andrea D.

August 28, 2021

I am so saddened by such a tremendous loss. Dr. Present was my hero at 22 years old. He properly diagnosed me with Crohn´s disease when other doctors misdiagnosed me for 2 years. He was such a warm caring doctor that took me on at a time when he was not seeing new patients. My mother wrote him a letter explaining my situation along with the fact that I was only 22yrs. We received a phone call from Dr. Present along with an appointment to come see him. I am now 47 years old. I will never forget this kind loving human being that touched many lives as well as saved many lives. My condolences to his family.

Maria Martinesi

April 7, 2021

Dr. Present saved my Dad’s life 30 years ago. He is the reason my dad is still here with us. I family will forever be grateful for Dr. Present. It truly saddens me to hear of his passing. He was truly a god send to many.

Maria Martinesi

April 7, 2021

Barbara Horowitz

January 7, 2021

He was such a help to my younger sister who died in her early 50s from Krohn's Disease - before any cure had been found for Krohn's. He helped make her last years productive and bearable.

August 11, 2020

He saved my life after I was diagnosed with chrons. I am so saddened to just learn that he had passed away. Such a great doctor and kind person. I was just recommending him to a friend whose son now has Chrons. I will be forever grateful to him and I hope his approach is carried on by the doctors in his practice.

Dan Edney

July 9, 2020

I am saddened to learn of Dr. Present's passing. He was a very caring and considerate soul...especially caring as a doctor. After seeing many doctors and much frustration, I traveled to NY for a consultation with him and he spent time talking WITH me and not TO me about my Crohn's issues. He prescribed meds that gave me my life back, for many years until I finally required surgery. God bless you, Dr. Present and thank you so very much!

Barbara "Bobbie" Horowitz

January 10, 2020

I am forever grateful to Daniel Present for the way he treated my wonderful baby sister Susie. He was brilliant and as kind and loving as he was brilliant. He became a true friend of our family.

Robert H. McLaughlin

January 7, 2020

It's sadly four years since Dr Present's passing, but I still think and talk about him very often each and every year since. I was very blessed to have been referred to him at a point in my life when I thought there was no hope following many years of unsuccessful management from several other gastroenterologist's. His impact on the quality of my life can NEVER be over-stated! He was an amazing physician and as I quickly came to learn, one of the great thought-leaders in the field of gastroenterology. Rest In Peace to a great person who made an incredibly significant impact on the lives of so many people around the country and world.

Debbie S.

September 17, 2019

This is a very long time coming. I've known that Dr Present passed away for a few years now -- in fact, I had an appointment with him a few days before his last days in the office --but I haven't taken the time to let the family know just how grateful I was for his help. I have UC as well and had been in the hospital with a terrible GI doc who wanted to do surgery. Someone recommended Dr. Present who simply advised sending me home and seeing him in his office in a week. I did and I was so overwhelmed with gratitude -- after all those years of dealing with Drs who really didn't believe or know how to treat me, Dr. Present brought me back to health quite quickly. I also really enjoyed his personality and sweet nature. He was a great man who helped so many people, and it is tragic that he left us too soon.

Ron Ross

July 29, 2019

Dr. Present controlled my UC for over 10 years until he found cancer on my colon for which I had surgery. I was not interested at the time to get a colonoscopy, but he insisted and saved my life. RIP Dr. Present.

Darren Jaffe

July 17, 2019

I'm so sorry to learn of Dr. Present's passing. He treated me when I was at my most vulnerable as a newly diagnosed teenager and got me on track with my Crohn's Disease by putting me on 6MP. Take care, Dr. Present, wherever you are...

Stefani McMurrey Watters

July 5, 2019

I am so sorry to just now learn that Dr Present passed away. I consulted with him once while visiting NY from TX and he was so kind caring and conscientious to work me in to his busy schedule knowing I was perplexed by my Crohn's disease. He was a true hero and pioneer and his work will forever change lives of those of us with IBD!

I wonder how I can locate a copy of my medical records from that consultation 20 years ago??

Susan Defontes

May 1, 2019

Just learned the passing of dr present, he was a brilliant and caring doctor. My husband went to him 25 years ago and he saved his colon. We are ever grateful for saving my husband. Rest In Peace

Virginia Weiler

April 4, 2019

Dr. Present treated my mother for over 40 years. Not only did he save her life, but he allowed her to enjoy a good quality of life. Our family is forever thankful for the care he gave her. Very sorry to learn of his passing.

Barbara Silver

May 21, 2018

I was at a eye Dr.in Boca Raton when i started speaking to a lady next to me,somehow we got to speaking about Crohn's disease,i told her i had the best Dr.in NYC,it turned out so did her husband &daughter,she informed me of Dr.Presents passing.He was so caring,funny,genuine,i was blessed to have him as my Dr, for 15 yrs.My most sincere condolences

March 17, 2018

I wanted to add that Dr Present saved my life as well. I was his patient and have since been in remission 15+ years because of his thoughtful care. Three healthy children later, I still think about how lucky I am to have had such an amazing Doctor - I will be forever grateful.

November 9, 2017

Robert McLaughlin

September 24, 2017

I was referred to Dr Present in 1997 by my Gastro on Long Island when I was suffering with debilitating Crohn's Disease symptoms that he could no longer manage. Dr Present hospitalized me at Mt. Sinai and managed my disease incredibly well from that point forward. He was a very gifted GI physician and thanks to him I have been in remission now for 20 years. Dr Present saved my life!! I was very shaken when I learned that he had passed away. He was a great doctor and will forever be missed!

Carolyn Zimmerman (formerly Goldstein)

September 15, 2017

Dear Jane and Judy,
So very sorry to hear of Danny's passing, he will be greatly missed. I only found out about his death because my daughter had a GI problem and I wanted to send her to the very best.
My family and I lived across the street from the Presents on East 49th Street and my first ever crush, when I was 9 years old, was Danny. I even was so bold as to tell him when I got older I would marry him! Alas, it was not to be, because Jane stole his heart.
RIP Danny

Melanie Levine

May 30, 2017

I saw Dr. Present February 26, 1999 ONE TIME. I was deathly ill since 1983. Even thought I have had a rough time... Lots of operations... I have been in remission since Dr. Present took my case and gave my gastro direction. I can say it's been 17 years of remission and a couple of pills!!! All thanks to my doctor to have the wherewithal to seek help!!! I will forever remember my gift of life from Dr. Present!!!

Kevin Shaw

April 9, 2017

What an amazing man and doctor. Dan Present was my Gastro doc for 15 years, starting in 1985, and he helped me deal with the difficulty of IBD. I was one of the lucky ones to use 6 MP for close to 10 years until major surgery was required. He was an awesome individual who I will never forget. I know he's resting in peace after living such a purposeful life.

Bobbie Horowitz

February 28, 2017

Getting this email brings my mind back to the time when Dr. Present was such a positive force in my precious Sister Susie Hank's life. I'm sure that their vibrations are working in heaven to benefit this planet. They both enriched my life. I thank him, once again, for bringing so much comfort to Susie.

Judy Hoffpauir

February 27, 2017

I'm the North GA girl whom you and your staff loved to hear talk. I think it was my very southern accent lol After my 3rd bowel resection my parents asked who was the best Dr they could get me to. My local GI said Dr Daniel Present in NYC. I remember my family making a donation to buy more mice in order for him to take me as a patient. His heart's desire was to find a cure for Crohn's. I was his patient from 1991 until his retirement. He helped save countless lives including myself. May you rest in peace my good Doc.

Michael Mania

September 16, 2016

I just now learned about Dr. Presents passing. I am deeply saddened. I became a patient of his in 1997.I was very sick with Crohn's disease. He assured me that he could help me and that I was not a unique patient like I was told by Dr's in NJ. He would say to me "when I tell you I can't help you then you worry" Dr. Present was a true person and not just a great Doctor. I will so miss his wit and personality. I know I am in good hands with Dr. Marion. But thank you Dr. Present for saving my life. I would not be here today with out you.

Nanci Colangelo

September 10, 2016

I just found out that Dr. Dan Present passed away and I am heartbroken. Words could never convey my connection with him- not just as my doctor for 40 years but I also felt like he was part of my extended family. Even though my visits were out of necessity, I still looked forward to those days because I was going to see this dear man. He always showed me kindness and compassion. He raised my spirits, even when my body felt otherwise and reassured me when I was at my lowest. I always tell people he was my miracle-workerthe only doctor who was able to make me whole again and give me back a normal life. I am so fortunate to have met this great doctor and I will miss his good-bye kiss on my forehead and his wonderful stories - will miss him...He is my hero.

Scott Grenz

August 31, 2016

When I was in my early 20's, I was hospitalized with UC. I was wracked with pain. Dr Present with me and held my hand. This to me is what he was all about.

Carol Kaplan

June 17, 2016

I just heard this very sad news and I am so sad. Dan Present became my Doctor way back in the mid-1960's when he diagnosed me with IBS.
When our Sons were teenagers, they had problems and became Dr. Present's patients as well. They were both diagnosed with Crohn's and both were eventually operated on. Our older son went in as an emergency and had to have surgery. Our younger Son moved to Baltimore and had a resection at Johns Hopkins. Dan was always concerned as how our Sons had Crohn's and I didn't. It still remains an unsolved mystery.
We had a summer home in the Berkshires in Western Massachusetts and used to run into Dan and Jane when they were up at their summer home. When we retired to Delray Beach, I asked him for a referral for a Gastroenterologist and he sent me to one of his former Students who is a wonderful Physician.
RIP dear Dan. Jane, please accept our deepest sympathy.
Hugs,
Carol Kaplan, Delray Beach, Florida

Richard Hollenberg

June 15, 2016

I started seeing dr. Present in 1968 while a senior in high school. I was diagnosed with ileocolitis from dr. Henry janowitz. Dr. Janowitz suggested I see this young understudy of his dr. Daniel present who I feel saved my life. At just 18 I was scared ileocolitis wasn't that much known back then and he made me as comfortable as I could be. As the years went on my condition got worse until surgery had to be performed in 1977. Basically I have been Crohn's free since then. I used to do bodybuilding shows and dr. Present would use my picture to show some of his other male patients that having Crohn's disease is not a death sentence. When I would see him in his Manhattan office we would talk about everything from his jogging to his daughter's role in bodybuilding shows I felt like I was part of his family. Even when I moved to Florida in 2005 I would make the trip up to Manhattan once a year for my yearly checkup. He was perhaps the only doctor I really had trust in what he said. He will be missed and I hope all those doctors who learn from him follow his rules

Marc Barcan

June 15, 2016

Words cannot describe how I feel upon hearing of this great man's passing back in January. I knew he was on medical leave but thought he would always be back.
I remember him fondly running the NYC Marathon as a young man before he blew out his knee or seeing him in several restaurants in Manhattan while I was eating something I should not have been.
My condolences to Dr. Present's immediate family and his family of doctors and patients. You will be sorely missed and thank you for the care you gave to me.

Mitchell Galane

May 22, 2016

I apologize in advance over the length of this:

I don't know whether or not Dr. Present saved my life, but he most definitely improved the quality of it. It was November 1st, 1979, and I was a terrified 12 year old, After several days of increasing stomach pain, followed by the discovery of blood in my stool, my local doctor sent me to my local hospital in Freehold Twp., NJ, where I continued to get sicker and sicker. After being pricked, poked, and prodded for several weeks with no improvement, I was transferred to Mt. Sinai by ambulance. And Dr. Present entered my life. I don't remember a lot of my time there, only bits and pieces. One memorable incident involving my parents bringing me a hamburger, my first solid food in ages, which I proceeded to eat while being wheeled to a colonoscopy. And upon completing the procedure, I was wheeled back while finishing the burger. But there was one thing that has stuck with me my entire life: Because of Dr. Present, I left Mt. Sinai on December 8th, 1979 much improved, with no surgery, and no colostomy bag. He was willing to take the time to see if I could improve with just oral medications. And I did. I had a couple of flare ups during my teen years, but nothing since. And I owe that to him.

I remained his patient for years. When my family moved to Northern California, I still flew in every Christmas for my checkup (and was totally devastated when the Madison Deli, my post-colonoscopy pitstop) on the corner closed. As for Dr. Present, he showed more concern about my health than I usually would. He rightfully, constantly lectured me to take my medicines. He was the one who recommended I get tested for HIV (I did have either 8 or 12 blood transfusions in NYC during Nov-Dec 1979). Luckily I dodged a bullet on that one. And my weight. I was/am a film student. As I started gaining too much weight in my 20's, he started calling me Orson Welles, and it was not based on my great talent. He hated seeing me so heavy. The last time he saw me, I was still overweight, but had lost a lot of it. And I was able to give him a copy of my first feature film that I wrote and co-produced.

As I got older, financial issues, physical and mental health drama, and other assorted mayhem made it impossible to see him. Now living in Philly, I am on Medicaid, so I see a local GI. I always assumed I would still see him in the future.

When my mother called me to tell about seeing his passing in the paper, I was floored. I was too upset, too guilty to write anything. But now, 5 months later, it came back to me, perhaps in part, because I am going for my yearly colonoscopy this Friday. I'll skip the burger til I'm finished!

My great regret is that - at least in the later years - I never thanked him for all he did. He did everything to turn what could have been a life altering experience (perhaps even life ending one) and taught me how to live with Crohn's Disease. I will forever be in his debt.

My deepest, most sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. He was a very special man. And he will be missed.

Mitch

George and Heather de Armas

George de Armas

May 6, 2016

I relocated to Florida about 2 years ago and just heard about this. It really has hit me hard. I have beaten the odds. I am UC free and no cancer. Due in no small part to the care and dedication of Dr. Present and his team Including Dr. Marion. My deepest condolences to the entire Family.

April 29, 2016

I am so saddened to just find that Dr. Present has passed. He was my doctor for over 20 years. When I first came to him I was a very sick 13 year old girl who didn't think she would live much longer. With his kindness and knowledge he gave me a life I never thought I would have. Allowing me to later on become a mother of 3. After every visit he would hug me and tell me I would be fine. He will be missed.

Melinda Menke

April 28, 2016

Jane,
I am completed saddened to just hear of the loss of Dan Present to the world. He set an example of what every doctor should be, and everything in this beautiful obituary is completely true. I admired him so much and his contributions were immensurable. So kind, so warm, so real. He told me a story about your children and when they refused to go to bed. He said that he made them stay up and would not allow them to go to bed and never had that problem again. My love and condolences go to you and your children.

PS I would like to make a contribution. Could you let me know where to send it?

Melinda (from Memphis)

Abraham M. Chomali

April 7, 2016

I am very saddened to hear of Dr. Present's passing. I was a patient of his for close to 20 years, and he took great care of me. He was a pioneer in his field and he will be greatly missed.
My condolence to his family.

R Scahfer

April 1, 2016

After months of frustrating misdiagnosis I was referred to Dr Present who met with me and diagnosed me with ulcerative proctosigmoiditis. He put me on the right meds to get me into remissions and since then his treatment and care of me have left me with very few flares. He was a life savor who gave me my quality of life back and was such an amazing Doctor. I'm forever grateful for his treatment and he was a wonderful caring Doctor.

Steven Goldshore

March 16, 2016

Dr. Present saved my life! I had ulcerative colitis and Crohn's desease and first saw him at the age of 33. He treated me for 35 years. At the end of my first visit he said "We will solve this and make you better." He did! He gave me back my life. He was empathetic, understanding and encouraging. He also referred me and my family to the best specialists when they were having medical problems.

As a patient I always enjoyed his company and look forward to visiting with him. He was empathetic and understanding. We talked a lot about his travels and especially the love of golf we both shared.

He was a blessing to all who knew him, an angel from heaven. My son is now a surgery resident and I can only hope that he brings the same kind of skills and human understanding that was Dr. Presents hallmark. If so, he will be represent the medical profession at its highest level.

Dr, Present will be sorely missed.

Sincerely and with gratitude,

Steve Goldshore

Alan Schwartz

March 12, 2016

Dr. Dan Present first treated me at Mt Sinai in 1967, when I was a 21 year old, saving my life while holding me off from surgery until he forced my UC into remission. I was hospitalized twice more in the next several years. He finally suggested the Koch pouch surgery which was a fledgling procedure back then, in 1977. I was forever grateful to him for that. Overall I was his patient for over forty years, and he also treated my wife Pearl and my brother-in-law Joel Steinberg. I don't think the field of medicine has ever had such a wonderful human being and teacher as Dr. Present, and he will be greatly missed.

Katie Ferguson

March 10, 2016

What an incredible man! His contribution to medicine and society will clearly be felt for generations to come. Cheers to you, sir. Thank you for positively impacting so many lives.

Deborah Tarno

March 8, 2016

I'm very sad to learn of Dr Presents passing. I was a patient of his for over 22 years...he was a very compassionate and knowledgable dr. If it wasn't for him, I would of had my colon removed 3 months after diagnosis in 1990. The IBD community has loss someone very special. Prayers to him and his family .

Andrea Martinez

March 3, 2016

Although this is quite late, learning of Dr. Present's passing was extremely upsetting. I met Dr. Present when I was diagnosed with Crohns at age 27 and felt scared and hopeless. He was no longer taking new patients at that time but was kind enough to include me in this blessed group as a patient of his. That was one of the best things that happened in my life. Dr. Present helped me manage my crohns for the past 20 plus years and I am doing AMAZING for that reason. I am so sorry to his family for the loss of this AMAZING man who is not only irreplaceable as a doctor but as a person. My sympathy to his family and my prayers that he is in heaven and at peace.

Sheri Bach

February 16, 2016

My heart breaks at the loss of Dr. P a wonderful doctor and special man. I grew up with his care going back to 1971, when I flew up from Miami with only hope. I was on so many meds that no one could get me under control. Until 6MP and my being on the trial of this medication did I get started on the right path. Like the others who have shared their love, respect and admiration for this wonderful man and doctor. I also send my condolences to the Present family and all that were lucky enough to have him touch their lives. RIP Dr. Present.

Paula Langsam Campbell

February 2, 2016

Dan Present saved my life -- several times. I met him in 1965,and remained his patient till I moved to CA in 1972. He always said I was his first patient. He saved me from colostomy when he developed the long tube treatment on me, after a diagnosis of toxic megacolon. After I moved to CA I was told I had colon cancer. I phoned Danny and he told me to come to NY where a colleague of his was developing a new diagnostic test. The test was what we now call Colonoscopy. I'll never forget my first admit to Mt. Sinai. I was young and terrified. Dan said he couldn't see me till the next day as he and Jane had tickets that night for the opening of Annie Get Your Gun at Lincoln Center. A little after midnight my door opened -- and there was Danny, still in his tux, come to see how I was doing. I am proud to have called Danny my friend for the last 50 years. My heart goes out to Jane, who he never stopped speaking of, and the family.

January 31, 2016

Dear, Dear Jane: The news of Dan's death shocked and saddened me. He has always been so vital and energetic in my mind and heart -- and in our occasional encounters over the years after our running days had passed. What camaraderie, what fun, the two of us on the road (especially for the "training sessions" for the Boston Marathon) and when you weren't running with us, cheering us on. Neither snow nor rain...

Remember the battle "against the shadow," and your "gotta have park"?

Please pass my heartfelt wishes to the family, whom I remember clearly. You were a magnetic pair, and I can't believe he's gone.
As well, he was always concerned, reliable and sympathetic as my physician.

I regret having missed learning about Dan's death in time to attend the funeral.

Love, Marjorie Hirsch

rita friedman

January 24, 2016

dearest Jane, how lucky you two where to find each other and to have shared such a great love. I was there at the beginning and I know it was magic.
your roomie

Randi Korobelnik

January 20, 2016

Dr. Present, a.k.a "my savior," was a true mensch with a heart of gold. I met him for the first time during the summer of 1994 following my second semester at Brandeis University. From our initial meeting, he treated me like a person rather than a patient, and put me at ease with his smiles, hugs, collaborative spirit, and reassuring voice. Additionally, despite my doubts, he had me back to college in a little over three weeks after determining surgery was my only option. I hoped he would live to see a cure for Crohn's disease/ ulcerative colitis in his lifetime--especially after his 50 years of dedication to advancing IBD research and improving the quality of life of those of us he fought for daily.

You leave behind quite a legacy, Dr. Present. Rest assured you will never be forgotten; if we witness a cure in my lifetime, it will be thanks to you and your sacrifices. May your family find some comfort in the countless lives you touched, and the heartfelt and warm memories which will live on ALWAYS through each of us. RIP to a fine man and adored Doctor.

Rosanne F.

January 20, 2016

Very sad to read that Dr. Present has died. He became a great hero to me in the early 1980s when he published his Crohn's & Ulcerative Colitis Fact Book. At that time it was still very hard for a newly DXed IBDer to get accurate info on the best possible treatment for these scourges!!!!! His text led me in the right direction & luckily I eventually ran into him & told him on-the-spot how much his work had helped me. He absolutely beamed with happiness on hearing that! Rest in peace, my deepest condolences to his family.

David Levy

January 20, 2016

Dr. Present most definitely saved my colon, but also saved my ability to live a full life. My family and I are forever grateful to him and we are so saddened to hear of his passing.

Steve G

January 19, 2016

Dr. P was recommended to me after he treated my aunt. He quickly treated and relieved my issues. I brought my then-girlfriend to him a few years later and he treated her as well. He also advised us that if we should ultimately marry we would likely produce a child with gastro problems. We did marry and sure enough our daughter, now 23 has an unfortunate gastro diagnosis.

Lisa Welsien

January 19, 2016

Dear Jane and family, sending my deepest condolences and sympathy at this time. Dr. Present was a kind and generous force, who sincerely touched my life and, as you know, the lives of so many others. With love, Lisa Mueller Welsien

Michael DeMeo

January 18, 2016

What a great man we have lost! Dr Present was a gentle man with a gift a healing and a great communicator to his patients.

January 17, 2016

Jayne
So sorry to hear about your loss
He truly was an outstanding doctor
and great life partner.
My condolences,
Annette Schofler Jacobs

Martin Portnoy

January 16, 2016

So sad. So many memories of all of us as young MDs and young parents.

Nancy Z

January 16, 2016

Dr. Present saved both my life and my bowel:) He affectionately called me 'Queen of Denial' as on more than one occasion we reunited bedside at Mount Sinai after some pushing the limits of 'handling it' on my part. He was such a gracious, caring, humble and human physician. He was my doctor for 30 years spanning the decades through diagnosis, college - even weekly long distance phone conversations while I studied in the Midwest, two pregnancies, and many twists and turns during the course of my Crohn's disease. The man was truly a superhero to me and my family. The care and support he provided is beyond words for those of us fighting the good fight on a daily basis. It is hard to believe he is at rest - this gentle giant and love of a man seemed like he would be eternally working to solve IBD. Love Always, Nanz

Alisa Arnoff

January 16, 2016

Jane, you and Dan touched and improved my life in so many ways. I think of you both often. Much love and heartfelt blessings from my family to yours.

Sari Schwartz

January 16, 2016

My heart breaks. Dr. Present saved my life. My first time meeting him was Sept 16, 2001; 5 days after our city was terrorized. I had waited for this appointment for over 3 months and I was figuring out a way to get into NYC...and so I did! And on that very day, he saved me. After years of hospital stays, medications, and just plain feeling awful, he knew exactly the right path to set me on. He allowed me to have children when I never thought I'd be able. He treated me like a person, not a patient. Always put me at ease and somehow made it all seem better. Thank you Dr. Present for your invaluable contributions to the IBD community. You helped so many to lead a normal life when it often felt impossible.
My deepest sympathy to the Present family.

January 15, 2016

Please accept my condolences. Dr present was my doctor for many years and was kind , caring, and considerate. I' hold every other doctor I see up to his standards. He taught me so much. I will never forget him.. Kathryn Schenker.

Patricia Melchior

January 15, 2016

My heart is broken. This wondeful doctor gave me the strength to carry on each and every day while I fight this dreaded disease. I will never forget the day I first visited him, I was 18 years old, been to 13 doctors in NJ and he looked at the same test results all the others looked at and diagnosed me immediately. I am nos 60 years young and he saw me through 2 wonderful pregnancies, my only regret is that I did not name one of my boys after him. I was hospitalized many times for months at a time and on a Sunday morning he would visit me is his (at that time) jogging suit. I have the best memories and I owe my happy life to him for always giving me the guidance, support and nurturing that any patient could ask for. My deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and friends, for a piece of my heart is too feeling a great loss. I feel as if I knew his family because of the bond we had. I do keep in my heart all the times we laughedand cried together. One Christmas morning, many years ago,I believe it was 1984, he came to see me and my husband dressed as Santa and set up a car racing set in my Mount Sinai room, and he raced cars with us. One of many stories, through the 42 years of being his patient. Dr. Present did so much for so many with his knowledge and heart as big as the universe. i will miss him and truly loved going to all my Dr. and hospital visits. So many times I was so ill I couldn't speak a word but just hearing his voice made me feel so much better. He will always live in my heart and I will miss him...

Larry Finkelstein

January 15, 2016

Dr.Present was my go to GI doc when my Crohn's was at its worst. He always was able to give good advice and comfort no matter how bad it was. Condolences to his entire family. CCFA and the IBD community will miss but always gratefully remember him.

Abi Babcock

January 15, 2016

When our daughter moved to NYC after graduating college, she has the fortune to be one of Dr. Present's patients. I only met him once before they decided she would see Dr. Chapman, as she has both IBD illnesses. These two amazing physicians have given their life to this terrible disease and done important research to finding a cure. We joined the community and last year funded a CCFA grant for genetic research to continue Dr. Present and Dr. Chapman's fight for the cure. RIP Dr P, gone, but never forgotten.

Kim Calvo

January 14, 2016

Dr. Present gave me the courage and ability to get healthy to have my children. I will forever cherish his memory for giving me the best present a person could give...life.

Darryl Becker

January 14, 2016

Darryl Becker May I please send my deepest regrets. dr Present was my doctor for 38 years No one could have given me more care because we were together for so long I cannot give you allof my gratitude this doctor gave me my whole life with patience and gratitude. I have been morning him since he retired in 2014. I have always looked to speak to him I have learned that he cared forme butnot even close to how I cared for him.This is a man who gave me my life. I will care for him always and cannot thank him enough. I miss you every day. May you rest in peace and get all the love you deserve

Gerry Morgan

January 14, 2016

During the medical intake of my first meeting with Dr. Present, I confessed that my symptoms began when I became engaged (my future mother-in-law did not want to lose her son)! Dr P. laughed and said that he hadn't heard that one before and asked if he could use that story at "rounds"!
Daniel Present was not only an excellent doctor, but had the compassion and kindness to make those of us afflicted with IBD feel more human. He was a gentle human being and will be sorely missed.

January 14, 2016

Dr. Present was truly a unique, kind and wonderful man and doctor. He will be missed beyond words by patients, friends, colleagues and family. Thank you for always making me feel like I was everyone else while dealing with my Crohn's. Most importantly, thank you for racing me around Mt. Sinai one day post op to get me back into fighting condition for my wedding. I will miss you Dr. P.

Rebecca Babcock

January 14, 2016

Dr. Present was the beacon of light for me when first moving to NYC as a young professional trying to "balance" a terrible disease and a budding career. His kindness, wisdom and grace will be missed, but his impact will be forever felt.

Rachael Golden Mortensen

January 13, 2016

Dan was a patriarch in the truest sense of the word. He was defined by a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of others; to setting the bar at the highest rung, and then soaring past all expectations.

His strength and enthusiasm for life will live on in those who were fortunate to have shared even a moment of his brilliant light.

My heartfelt prayers go out to the Present family as they reflect on the many treasures of a life well-lived.

Barbara "Bobbie" Horowitz

January 13, 2016

Dr. Present made my wonderful sister, Susan Hank able to have a successful and peaceful, if short life. I, forever, thank him from the bottom of my heart.

Elaine Jones

January 13, 2016

I worked for him for over ten years. I've missed him since his retirement and I'll miss him even more now. RIP Dr. P.

Barry Greenberg

January 13, 2016

Dr. Present was a god-send when our daughter Blythe was stricken with Crohn's Disease. My wife and I recall sitting at the edge of our chairs in front of you awaiting your calm and insightful words of wisdom. If one protocal failed you were sure to keep our hopes high with an althernative pathway. We will never forget you and wish to let your family know how very much you meant to us. May you rest in peace.

Shelley, Barry, and Blythe Greenberg.

Randi Gladstone

January 13, 2016

You are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.

Ronnie Grill

January 13, 2016

I was so sad to hear of Dan's passing. I was his patient since 1975, he was the most caring, concerned - loving doctor. I will miss him.

January 13, 2016

Dr Daniel Present was an exceptional person and truly gifted physician. He took the greatest care of his patients with his kind, gentle and compassionte heart and incomparable understanding of IBD. He always said he treated people not patients. His legacy will live on through his beautiful family and the countless physicians he trained and the grateful patients he cared for.
He cared for both my Mom and myself and I will always remember him and the hope he instilled as we would leave his office.His memory will always be for a blessing and he will
remembered with the greatest respect, admiration and deepest appreciation.
Our heartfelt condolences to his family and his staff of many years on 86th Steet.

January 13, 2016

Dr. Present took care of my husband for many with compassion and kindness. He will be missed! Phyllis Meisner

January 13, 2016

I will never forget my dear Dan Present. I had such a complicated case of Crohns that he used to joke that my medical file weighed more than me! His humor, compassion, and openness to my thoughts and pains were most unusual and rare in a Doctor of his stature. I still miss him, and will always remember him. The IBD community has lost a great champion, a hero. My deepest condolences to Jane and his family, and those close to him. He was a brilliant and unforgettable man and healer.

With Love,
Adele (Miranda) Gold. Patient for over 20 years!

Arlene Begelman

January 13, 2016

I am one of the hundreds or patients who was fortunate to meet Dr. Present at a time when I was close to having surgery to remove my colon. I was sent to him through the Murray family and his intelligence and advice were both literally stunning and life changing. I am so sad for everyone in his family and all the many he helped along the way. He will be sorely missed.

January 13, 2016

I have known Dr. Present since I'm 19 years old. He was a wonderful doctor and father figure to me! When I became pregnant with my son, while using 6mp, every doctor advised me to abort the pregnancy. I waited till Dr. Present called to advise me on what to do. I told him that I trust him like a father and I am going to listen to whatever he tells me to do. He said the baby will be just fine and to go ahead with the pregnancy. He was absolutely correct! I gave birth to a beautiful, healthy baby boy who is now 24 years old. You will be greatly missed! Thank you for your dedication, knowledge and most of all your compassion for trying to make life for those of us that suffer from Crohn's Disease a little easier!!! RIP, Dr. Present.

Sue Joustra

January 13, 2016

I am sorry to hear of Dr. Present's passing. I was a patient of his for over 30 years. I was proud to be part of his clinical trials - he helped bring me to better health - and I owe my daughters life to him. My deepest condolences to his family.

Linda Sikorki

January 13, 2016

I was a patient of Dr,Prsent, way back when he worked out of small brownstowne ,He had one secretary, named gail.As he grew and changed offices he became even more poplar and esteemed. I was a patient fro 1978 until 2003. HE HELPED ME to keep my colon for year we were ona rolle roater, fo sure. But Dr Present was always available to finesse the new meds we tried. he was a team Player with his patients and I have yet to meet a doctor as caring competant and devoted to his patient. i will miss you as so many others will. I do now that you gave it your all for all your patients. YOU, Dr P. will me missed forever. You were one of a kind!!!

David Bagdan

January 13, 2016

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Best,David and Maureen Bagdan

Allison Fells

January 13, 2016

Dr. Daniel H. Present...

From the moment I walked into your office on June 3, 1990 and you diagnosed me with Crohn's Disease, we were a team.
There is so much to say, so much love, respect and appreciation I have for you.
You were truly the best.
You laughed with me.
You cried with me.
You were unique.
You were a doctor who always went the distance.
You gave me hope.
You were a mensch.
You saved my life.
Because of you, I have been married for 24 years and have my beautiful HEALTHY twin 15 1/2 year old daughters.
You allowed me to dream, and you made sure my dreams could come true.
I will miss your big hugs, your kiss on top of my head, your calls at night always checking in on "Alli," and I will miss having that reassurance that you are out there fighting for our cure, I will miss you very much!!

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you

My deepest and sincerest condolences to Jane, Tracy and the entire Present, Podalak and Liss families.