"When I first met Dr. Cooperstone he was very cordial and seemed to ask me a lot of questions. I realized he wanted to be sure that I was 100% positive that it was something I wanted to do. There were some tests I already had the results of as I had visited St. Lukes hospital first and wasn't impressed after having the tests and then speaking to them a few times. Dr C. then told me other tests I needed to have and to make an appointment for a sleep study. I was impressed with his thoroughness. His examination was short but I guess thorough enough for him to know what he needed to know. I saw him again and he said Fern (his office manager - or should I say his right arm - kind, thorough, always there for you) would give me a surgery date. That was that and I spoke to him once after I had sent him an e-mail (which he answered quickly). I did not see or speak to him again until the day of surgery (4/23/02). One thing - he will NOT do the surgery if he feels you are not a good candidate - he is careful and cautious. I saw him 2 weeks after surgery (I had to go back into the hospital for a few days due to a complication because of meds I was taking). After care is good - I've seen him 2X - no extra blood tests yet - he explains exactly how and when certain foods can be introduced into your regimen. He did explain any and all risks of surgery and I feel surgical competence AND bedside manner are important. I NEED and WANT someone I can relate to and Dr. C. fits the bill. On a scale of 1 to 10, I would rate Dr. C. a 9 3/4 since none of us is perfect in the scheme of things. I would use Dr. C. again if I had to do it over and I've recommended him to anyone I've come in contact with that asked for a surgeon. I need to say one thing - when I call or visit an office I need to feel comfortable and Fern (office manager) goes above and beyond the call of duty in those aspects. If she were not a part of the team it would definitely impact the office. The flow of how all is done is impecable and the Dr. is just about always running on schedule - not more than 15 minutes off compared to other Dr's where you can wait 2 hours. NOW I'M DONE!!"
