Last week I learned of the passing of Dr. Nathan Friedman. On May 27, 2009 in Los Angeles, Nate died at the age of 97. Susan Friedman, his daughter, called to let me know. I felt so, so sad – the world was a better place with Nate in it. It didn’t matter that it had been a while since I’d talked with him – I knew he was out there and there was comfort in that.
Oh so many professional terms can be applied to this man only a few of which are: Periodontist, USC Professor, Department Head, founder of Department of Behavioral Science. He was a man far ahead of his time.. However these terms don’t come near to touching the essence of the man. He was one of the most remarkable human beings I’ve ever met and I feel fortunate, pleased and honored to call him friend and mentor. His understanding of people and the depth of his empathy toward patients helped to make him such an exceptional person. He shared his knowledge with me so openly and freely.
I felt like he was with me in spirit at each presentation I gave at dental meetings. And his spirit will remain with me in all future meetings. I’ve spoken about Dr. Friedman at hundreds of dental meetings. On numerous occasions when I spoke at meetings on the west coast, his past dental students (now practicing dentists), would come up to me after the meetings and they’d relate stories of his classes and the impact he had made on them. Their comments were always filled with respect for the man and his knowledge.
For years I’ve had Dr. Friedman on a pedestal of sorts – in awe of his knowledge, in appreciation of his skills in treating anxious patients and in admiration for his mission in teaching dental students. I am so grateful to him for his interest in my work and his willingness to share with me. And so it is with greatest respect that I say, I’ll miss you Nate – but you’ll always remain with me and I’ll always feel your encouragement and support. Rest in peace.
TO READ EXAMPLE of Dr. Friedman’s work, “Managing Patient Anxiety: The Iatrosedative Process” click here.
