UCSD with Schwartz and Friedman is THE PLACE TO GO!!!!!!!
I had surgery there on 12/15/17 to remove my 2.2cm tumor. Its just about two months ago and I went on a 2 mile run today. I do still have some recovery to do and I am working with a Vestibular physical therapist. I am progressing rapidly. I will be back to work in a few weeks. I have absolutely NO FACIAL Weakness. NO Spinal Fluid Leak.
I received 9 opinions regarding my tumor (NYU, Cornell, Mayo, CU, Duke, UVA are some). I narrowed it down to UCSD or NYU (Roland and Golfinos). Schwartz and Friedman are amazing at what they do and they make themselves available to speak anytime. Dr.Schwartz gave me his cell phone number when I arrived in San Diego (I live in Denver). The program they are building there is going to be world class. UCSD Intensive care nurses were all amazing. I have no negative feedback.
I can't stress enough how important it is to do research before you make your decision. I have seen and heard of some bad outcomes in other places. Schwartz has performed 2000 surgeries and Friedman has performed 1000 surgeries. Together they are an amazing match. They have different personalities but they compliment each other well.
Kris Siwek is the "Patient Navigator" and she is amazing. She is a former patient of Dr. Friedman and had her tumor removed a few years ago, which makes her even more valuable to speak with.
I'm happy to talk to anyone who has questions.
-Dan
39 yrs old.
2.2 cm tumor (Retrosigmoid 12/15/17)
