2013
UCLA Neurosurgery
2013
honoring
VISIONARY AWARD
STEVE TISCH MEDICAL VISIONARY AWARD
RICHARD MERKIN, M.D. VISIONARY ICON AWARD
WILLIAM FRIEDKIN RODNEY RESPECT AWARD
CHUCK LORRE COURAGE AWARD
RABBI DAVID WOLPE EVENING HOST
LARRY MILLER
Thursday, October 24 The Beverly Wilshire Hotel
The visionary starts with a clean sheet of paper, and re-imagines the world. —Malcolm Gladwell Best-Selling Author of “The Story of Success”
EVENING PROGRAM THE OPENING! UCLA Gospel Choir WELCOME
Larry Miller Evening Host
UCLA NEUROSURGERY
Dr. Neil A. Martin
Chairman and W. Eugene Stern Professor in Neurosurgery
2013 COURAGE AWARD
Rabbi David Wolpe
Presented by James Burrows
FEATURED PERFORMANCE
Brad Carter DINNER SPECIAL GUEST ARTIST
Randy Newman 2013 VISIONARY AWARD
Steve Tisch
Presented by Peter Morton
2013 MEDICAL VISIONARY AWARD
Dr. Richard Merkin
Presented by Dr. David T. Feinberg
2013 VISIONARY ICON AWARD
William Friedkin
Presented by Dr. A. Eugene Washington
2013 RODNEY RESPECT AWARD
Chuck Lorre
Presented by Bob Newhart and Joan Dangerfield
2013 VISIONARY BALL
EVENT CHAIR Edie Baskin Bronson GALA COMMITTEE Elizabeth Candias Meritt Elliott Carlberg Leslie Danelian Louise Danelian Lisa D’Andrea Schwartz Joan Dangerfield Susan Dolgen Jacqueline Monash Rita Rudin Ralph Rudin Afa Shafa Monte Stettin Linda Weinstein Scott Yonkouski
EVENT COORDINATOR Grant Associates
SHOW PRODUCER Scott Mauro Entertainment
EVENT GRAPHICS Not So Square Design
EVENT PUBLICITY Marleah Leslie & Associates
A MESSAGE FROM
THE VISIONARY BALL CHAIR October 24, 2013 Dear Friends, Welcome and thank you for joining us for the 2013 Visionary Ball benefiting UCLA Neurosurgery! Tonight we are privileged to celebrate five remarkable individuals: Steve Tisch, Dr. Richard Merkin, William Friedkin, Chuck Lorre and Rabbi David Wolpe. Not only are they highly regarded for their accomplishments in their chosen fields, they are five of the finest individuals one could have the pleasure of knowing. Each one has generously shared his time, talents and resources to improve the lives of others and to protect the planet we all share. We are indeed honored to recognize them. As the chair of this dinner, I want to express my deep appreciation to our dinner committee, many of whom are the family members and friends of grateful patients, or are grateful patients themselves. They know first-hand that at some point in everyone’s life, someone you know will likely need a medical facility that specializes in the complex treatment of brain tumors, stroke, brain trauma, spinal disorders, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease or other cognitive impairments. While no one wants to come face-to-face with these illnesses, having a world-class neurosurgical center right here in Los Angeles is extraordinarily beneficial to everyone in our community. Our inspiration is Dr. Neil Martin, Professor and Chairman of the UCLA Neurosurgery, and his incredible team. It is a credit to all of them that UCLA Neurosurgery has consistently ranked in the top ten in the nation, with the UCLA Health System ranked best in the Western United States for 24 straight years by U.S. News & World Report. We want all of you with us to know that your support of this event will directly benefit neurosurgical research, education and patient care. You are making a tremendous difference in the future of Neurosurgery at UCLA and the patients served—and a difference in the future of healthcare in our Los Angeles community. You should all feel very proud. With sincere gratitude, Edie Baskin Bronson
2013 VISIONARY AWARD
STEVE TISCH
S
teve Tisch, Chairman and Executive Vice President of the New York Giants and partner at Escape Artists Productions, is the only person with both an Academy Award and a Super Bowl ring—or make that two Super Bowl rings!
Steve won an Academy Award as a producer of Forrest Gump, which won the Oscar for Best Picture in 1994. He has received two Super Bowl rings as Chairman of the Giants, who defeated the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII and XLVI. Steve joined the Giants organization as Executive Vice President in July 2005, but has been involved with the team since his father, Preston Robert Tisch, purchased 50 percent of the franchise in 1991. With the passing of his father in 2005, he assumed the additional title of Chairman. Steve worked closely with John Mara on the planning and construction of MetLife Stadium, which was completed in the spring of 2010. Steve also helped in achieving a successful bid to bring Super Bowl XLVIII to MetLife Stadium in February 2014. Highly regarded as one of the most successful producers in the motion picture industry, Steve is a partner at Escape Artists Productions, whose credits include The Pursuit of Happyness, The Weather Man, Seven Pounds, Knowing, The Taking of Pelham 123, The Back-Up Plan, and Hope Springs. He recently completed filming on The Equalizer, directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Denzel Washington. His most recent project, Sex Tape, starring Cameron Diaz and Jason Segel, began production last month. Steve has long been a leader in the philanthropic sector and generously contributes his time and resources to a variety of organizations including The Epilepsy Foundation, Women’s Cancer Research Foundation and The Simon Wiesenthal Center. He is a member of the Board of Advisors at the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University and is on the Board of Trustees of The Geffen Theatre in Los Angeles, The Sundance Institute, The Los Angeles County Museum of Art and The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Cancer Center at Duke University—and he has been a longtime and loyal supporter of UCLA Neurosurgery. UCLA Neurosurgery is proud to present the 2013 Visionary Award to Steve Tisch.
2013 MEDICAL VISIONARY AWARD
RICHARD MERKIN, M.D.
R
ichard Merkin, M.D. is a role model of excellence as a healthcare leader. Since 1980, Dr. Merkin has served as the Chief Executive Officer and founder of the Heritage Group, named one of the world’s “10 Most Innovative Companies” in healthcare. Under his stewardship, the Heritage Group has become the largest, physician-owned and operated integrated delivery system in the United States with over 50 related healthcare companies that are all dedicated to quality, affordable health care and putting patients’ wellness first through the Heritage Provider Network (HPN). HPN’s clinically focused networks bring efficient and quality-driven systems to the communities in which they operate by working with physicians and physician organizations, hospitals and integrated delivery systems, health plans, public and community-based health care entities, and other health care professionals. The success of this business model has garnered Dr. Merkin national prominence in this field. As such, he is deeply concerned about our country’s $3 trillion health care crises. In response, he created, developed and sponsored the $3 million Heritage Health Prize for predictive modeling to save more than $30 billion in avoidable hospitalizations. Inspired by the X-Prize Foundation, an educational nonprofit organization whose mission is to bring about radical breakthroughs for the benefit of humanity, the Heritage Health Prize is the largest predictive modeling prize in the world, larger than the Nobel Prize for Medicine and the Gates Prize for Health. He is genuinely excited to bring new minds to the healthcare table with this prize and believes it holds great potential for not only bringing a winning algorithm, but also for encouraging the private sector to step up to the plate and assist in a globally transformative way with the end result of keeping patients healthier and out of the hospital. Dr. Merkin’s reach to help others extends to his outstanding philanthropy and far-reaching volunteerism. He serves on the Board of Trustees of the California Institute of Technology and the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. He is deeply committed to the neurosciences and he established the Richard Merkin Foundation for Stem Cell Research at the Broad Institute at Harvard and MIT; the Richard Merkin Initiative at the Johns Hopkins Brain Sciences Institute; the Richard Merkin Foundation for Neural Regeneration at UCLA; and he serves on the Board of Directors at the California NanoSystems Institute at UCLA. In addition, he is the Co-founder of Fastercures and founded the Heritage Medical Research Institute, a non-profit medical research corporation emphasizing health care quality and outcomes studies. UCLA Neurosurgery is proud to present the 2013 Medical Visionary Award to Dr. Richard Merkin.
2013 COURAGE AWARD
RABBI DAVID WOLPE
R
abbi David Wolpe, Rabbi of Sinai Temple, was most recently named the most influential Rabbi in America by Newsweek as well as one of the 50 most influential Jews in the world by the Jerusalem Post.
The author of seven books, including the national bestseller Making Loss Matter: Creating Meaning in Difficult Times, Rabbi Wolpe’s newest book is titled, Why Faith Matters. His work has been profiled in The New York Times, and he is a columnist for Time. In addition, he regularly writes for many publications, including The Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post’s On Faith website, The Huffington Post, New York Jewish Week, among others. He has made numerous television appearances on programs including The Today Show, Face the Nation, ABC This Morning, and CBS This Morning. He also has been featured in series on PBS, A&E, the History channel, and the Discovery channel. He previously held teaching positions at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America in New York, the American Jewish University in Los Angeles, Hunter College and UCLA. Rabbi Wolpe has said: “There are no guarantees, no protected people.” While he has been a constant source of strength and guidance for his congregants and our greater community, it is Rabbi Wolpe’s exceptional courage that inspired us all when he underwent surgery, performed by Dr. Neil Martin, after being diagnosed with a benign brain tumor that resulted in his having the very best outcome possible. UCLA Neurosurgery is proud to present the 2013 Courage Award to Rabbi David Wolpe.
2013 VISIONARY ICON AWARD
WILLIAM FRIEDKIN
W
illiam Friedkin is an Academy Award® -winning film director. His achievements in motion pictures and his opera productions have moved audiences throughout the world.
For sheer cinematic punch, it’s hard to equal two of his films in particular. His 1971 The French Connection was released to wide public and critical acclaim. Shot in a gritty style more suited for documentaries than Hollywood features, the film won five Academy Awards®, including Oscars for Best Picture and Best Director. He followed up with 1973’s The Exorcist which revolutionized the horror genre and is considered by most critics to be the greatest horror movie of all time. Nominated for 10 Academy Awards®, including Best Picture and Best Director, it won the Best Screenplay Award as well as the Award for Best Sound. Among his other big screen credits are To Live and Die in L.A., Sorcerer, Rules of Engagement, The Hunted, Bug, and Killer Joe starring Matthew McConaughey and Emile Hirsch, which was released last year. Mr. Friedkin began directing operas in 1998 with a widely-acclaimed production of Berg’s Wozzeck at Maggio Musicale in Florence. His subsequent productions have been in Torino, Italy; Tel Aviv; Washington National Opera at The Kennedy Center; the Bayerische Staatsoper in Munich; the Theater An der Wien in Vienna, as well as several productions for the Los Angeles Opera. Mr. Friedkin started in live television in Chicago, then moved on to documentaries and series television on programs such as The Alfred Hitchcock Hour. Beyond his remarkable professional accomplishments, he and his wife Sherry Lansing are dedicated in their support of the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. They established the Surgical Infections Quality Improvement Project, a program that promotes innovation to improve the quality of care and, more specifically, establishes a set of guidelines to prevent post-surgical infections. UCLA Neurosurgery is proud to present the 2013 Visionary Icon Award to William Friedkin.
2013 RODNEY RESPECT AWARD
CHUCK LORRE
O
ne of the most accomplished television comedy writer/producers of the past twenty years, Chuck Lorre co-created the blockbuster comedy series The Big Bang Theory and Two and a Half Men and executive produces the hit sitcom Mike & Molly. He most recently created the critically-acclaimed series Mom, which premiered in September. Previously, Lorre created hits such as Dharma & Greg, Grace Under Fire and Cybill, and served as co-executive producer on Roseanne. The Long Island native got his start in the entertainment business as a guitarist/singer touring the country and writing pop songs, including Debbie Harry’s Top 40 hit “French Kissin’ in the USA.” After more than a decade on the road, Lorre turned his attention to television. He began writing animation scripts for DIC and Marvel Productions, and wrote and produced the themes and scores for several animated series including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Lorre won the BMI Crystal Award for co-writing the Two and a Half Men theme song, was named an honorary member of the Royal Canadian Institute for the Advancement of Science, and received the David Angell Humanitarian Award on behalf of the American Screenwriters Association for demonstrating charitable efforts at the Venice Family Clinic. In 2009, Lorre received the NATPE Brandon Tartikoff Legacy Award and was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 2012, he was inducted into the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame. Lorre has also become known for expressing his thoughts and views through personal messages in the split-second vanity cards which appear at the end of his shows. The cards were compiled into a book, released in 2012, entitled “What Doesn’t Kill Us Makes Us Bitter.” Proceeds from the book benefitted the Venice Family Clinic, to which Lorre has been a long-time contributor. He also established the Dharma/Grace Foundation and The Robert Levine Family Health Center. For his charity work, he was honored with the Silver Circle Humanitarian Award. UCLA Neurosurgery is proud to present the 2013 Rodney Respect Award to Chuck Lorre.
RODNEY DANGERFIELD
The man who joked that he “got no respect” was wrong. Rodney Dangerfield did get respect— from his peers and his audiences. And he got it the old-fashioned way—he earned it.
B
orn in New York, Rodney Dangerfield began his career at the age of 15 writing jokes. At 19, he worked as a comic and a singing waiter. He sang, and people threw money! He traveled the comedy circuit for 10 years but reluctantly gave up show business for a more stable income. At the age of 40, Rodney re-launched his career. He spent his days in an office and his nights working in New York clubs. Not satisfied, he opened his own club in Manhattan. “Dangerfield’s” was the venue for Rodney’s HBO show and helped in popularizing the careers of Jerry Seinfeld, Jim Carrey, Tim Allen, Roseanne Barr, Jeff Foxworthy, Sam Kinison, Rita Rudner, and Bob Saget, among others. The club was a huge success and so was Rodney. Rodney Dangerfield became a household name. In addition to headlining on the Vegas strip, he made countless appearances on talk and variety shows. His first big break was The Ed Sullivan Show, which he did 16 times, as well as This Is Your Life, What’s My Line, Saturday Night Live, and a record 70 times on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. Additionally, he did guest appearances on Mad T.V., Late Night with Conan O’Brien, The Single Guy, Home Improvement, The Simpsons, The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn, and his favorite, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. His feature film credits included the classic hit comedy Caddyshack, Easy Money (which he co-wrote), Back to School, Ladybugs, Steven Spielberg’s Casper, The Godson, and his friend Adam Sandler’s film Little Nicky. In contrast to his comedy roles, he accepted a dramatic role offered to him by Oliver Stone for Natural Born Killers. Critics praised his realistic portrayal as the “Father from Hell.” Rodney also worked behind the scenes. He produced, wrote and co-composed the music for the animated feature Rover Dangerfield and provided the voice for ‘Rover’ as well. He starred in and co-wrote Meet Wally Sparks. He also co-wrote My 5 Wives; starred in and cowrote with Harry Basil the unusual love story The 4th Tenor, which was released on Rodney’s 81st birthday; and co-wrote and appeared in Back by Midnight. His many other achievements include writing his autobiography It’s Not Easy Bein’ Me, recording an album of love songs called Romeo Rodney, and being the first entertainer to own a Website. Among his many honors, he won a Grammy Award for his album No Respect and was the recipient of the Lifetime Creative Achievement Award from the 1994 American Comedy Awards. And—his famous trademark white shirt and red tie are on permanent display at the Smithsonian Institute. But perhaps Rodney’s proudest accomplishments were his family: his wife Joan and his two children from his first marriage, Brian and Melanie. He also experienced the joy of becoming a grandfather. For more than four decades, Rodney brought smiles to the faces of millions and enjoyed a very successful career. He took nothing for granted and was the first to say “yes” when asked to do a charity benefit. He truly cared. His final television appearance was on an episode of the CBS sitcom Still Standing, which aired on September 27, 2004, only eight days before his death. He was 82.
SPECIAL GUEST LARRY MILLER As one of Hollywood’s most recognizable faces, Larry Miller has appeared in over 100 film and television shows. He began his career with a memorable scene alongside Richard Gere and Julia Roberts in the blockbuster film, Pretty Woman. He has since gone on to unforgettable roles in such films as The Princess Diaries, The Nutty Professor, Bee Movie and Ten Things I Hate About You. He is also a proud member of Christopher Guest’s ensemble casts in the films: Waiting for Guffman, Best in Show, A Mighty Wind and For Your Consideration. Larry has made dozens of appearances on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Late Show with Photo by Greg Gorman David Letterman and Real Time with Bill Maher. He has also starred in his own HBO comedy specials and on Broadway in Neil Simon’s play, The Dinner Party. Among his other television credits are Desperate Housewives, Medium, Burn Notice, Law & Order and Seinfeld, in addition to a recurring role on Boston Legal. he is also the only “bad guy” to return on Law and Order as an unrepentant—and uncatchable—wife killer. In addition to his on-screen work, he hosts the podcast This Week with Larry Miller for the Ace Broadcasting Network, where he unleashes a barrage of humor about the absurdities of daily life, and he can be heard weekly on the most downloaded podcast on iTunes, The Adam Carolla Show. He frequently tours the country with his one-man show Cocktails with Larry Miller: Little League, Adultery and Other Bad Ideas, and he is a contributing humorist to The Huffington Post and The Weekly Standard as well as the author of the best-selling book Spoiled Rotten America.
SPECIAL GUEST RANDY NEWMAN Randy Newman has long been one of the most musically and lyrically ambitious singer-songwriters ever to be at play in the fields of popular music. A Los Angeles native, Randy was born to a renowned musical family. By the age of 17, Randy was a working songwriter. In 1968 he debuted with Randy Newman, and before long, an unusually wide range of artists including Judy Collins, Dusty Springfield, Peggy Lee, Harry Nilsson, and Joe Cocker were recording his songs. Critics lauded the musical depth, edge and literary quality of his lyrics as the 1970s brought 12 Songs, Live, the classic Sail Away and brilliant and controversial Good Old Boys. Little Criminal caught the public’s ear with the hit “Short People” and Born Again followed. In the 1980s, his foray into film composing earned him his first of 16 Oscar nominations. Trouble In Paradise and the Grammy-winning score for The Natural followed. Next, Land of Dreams was considered another breakthrough work. In the 1990s, Randy earned an Emmy and several more Grammys for work on films like Toy Story, James and the Giant Peach, A Bug’s Life and Toy Story 2. He also tickled his adult audience with his darkly hilarious take on Faust. The four-CD compilation: Guilty: 30 Years of Randy Newman and Bad Love followed, and in 2002, Randy won his first of two Academy Awards for Best Original Song for Monsters, Inc. He has garnered six Grammy Awards and three Emmy Awards throughout his career. In 2003, he signed with Nonesuch Records. The Randy Newman Songbook, Vol. I, his first effort with the label, introduced powerful new solo versions of early classics and recent gems alike. The 18 songs are an intimate and powerful reminder of the enduring work that Randy has established. In 2008 he released Harps and Angels, his first collection of new songs since 2009’s Bad Love. More recently, Randy wrote the songs and score for Disney’s The Princess and the Frog as well as for Toy Story 3 and garnered two more Academy Award nominations (for a total of 19 Oscar nods) in the Best Original Song category for Almost There and Down In New Orleans. Three years ago he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
BOARD OF ADVISORS Donald P. Becker, M.D. Jeffrey Berg Edie Baskin Bronson Richard “Skip” Bronson Melvin Cheatham, M.D. Lisa D’Andrea Schwartz Joan Dangerfield Marco Ferreira Evelyn A. Freed Joshua S. Friedman Beth Friedman Ted Gagliano Steve Garvey Tony Granato Lisa Gregorisch-Dempsey Bob Harper Neil A. Martin, M.D. Patricia Neuwirth Peter Neuwirth Connie Padden John B. “Jack” Simon Wendy A. Tucker
A MESSAGE FROM
THE CHAIRMAN Dear Friends, Colleagues, and Guests, Thank you for joining us for the 2013 Visionary Ball. The outpouring of support we have received through this annual celebration has allowed new therapies that will help patients previously paralyzed to take steps for the first time in years, live ten times longer than their prognosis once diagnosed with brain cancer, and enjoy productive lives free from debilitating seizures. Our work reminds us each day that the human brain is both miracle and mystery. It transforms our capacity to shape the world around us, to meet the challenges facing humanity: poverty, conflict, environmental sustainability, even space travel. The innovation that springs from the greatest minds of this era—and for generations to come—demonstrates that our brain is an asset of incalculable worth.
Neil A. Martin, M.D.
Chairman and W. Eugene Stern Professor in Neurosurgery
Yet, neurological disorders are the #1 cause of disability and loss of life in the nation. At UCLA, while we are proud of our accomplishments thus far, there is so much work to be done to change this reality for millions of people each year. Your support through the Visionary Ball provides an opportunity for a new reality for the patients we serve. Through the partnership of our supporters, physicians, scientists, nurses, students and residents, UCLA’s greatest minds will converge to accelerate progress on perfecting how we heal and repair damage caused by brain tumors, stroke, epilepsy, trauma, and myriad complex neurological disorders. We are all working to redefine the future of neurosurgical medicine in order to inspire new hope in our community and beyond. On behalf of all of us at UCLA, especially our patients, I extend our sincere thanks to tonight’s honorees: Steve Tisch, Dr. Richard Merkin, Billy Friedkin, Rabbi David Wolpe, and Chuck Lorre; our event chair, Edie Bronson, and the gala committee; and the hundreds of supporters including you for the care and discoveries you have made possible. Sincerely, Neil A. Martin Chairman and W. Eugene Stern Professor in Neurosurgery UCLA Department of Neurosurgery
OUR MISSION
THE MISSION OF UCLA NEUROSURGERY: • t o provide the finest neurosurgical patient care and the best hospital facilities available anywhere, to best serve our community and the world • t o invent the future of neurosurgery through research and technological developments, so the untreatable problems of today can be cured tomorrow • t o train the next generation of neurosurgical experts and leaders, so they are there when our children need them
NATIONALLY RANKED PROGRAMS
“To raise new questions, new possibilities, to regard old problems from a new angle, requires creative imagination and marks real advance in science.” —Albert Einstein For 24 consecutive years, U.S. News & World Report has recognized UCLA Neurosurgery as one of the top neurosurgery programs in the nation.
Society’s best hope for major advances in the treatment of acute brain injury and neurological disease lies with the diversified, multifaceted environment found in a major research institution. At Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, outstanding scientists and clinicians work together to translate new research findings from the laboratory to the patient’s bedside.
UCLA NEUROSURGERY UCLA Neurosurgery has a distinguished faculty of neurosurgeons and scientists who are inventing the future of patient care, research and education with the pursuit of perfection, power of technology and commitment to be worldwide leaders in the field. Each patient who enters our clinic receives individualized care tailored by a team of neurosurgeons and research scientists who collaborate in creating the most comprehensive plan that brings the latest technologies and treatments to the bedside. We treat each person with dignity, respect and compassion—just as we would wish for one of our own family members. Our premier Neurosurgical Residency Program continues to attract the elite applicants from across the nation. We condition our residents today to become neurosurgical pioneers of tomorrow. The seven-year rigorous training program focuses on developing a superior expertise in neurosurgical care in the operating room and beyond. Our residents are specially trained in research, innovation and leadership to expand the field of knowledge and application of novel technologies. In the research labs, clinicians and scientists work side-by-side to unravel the mysteries of the central nervous system and improve the treatments for brain and spinal disease. Our explorations in neuroscience go beyond the lab walls to connect globally with other innovators in neurosurgery through a seminal “Global Neurosurgery Academy� that will be powered by technology and based at UCLA. We aim to create new initiatives that translate to global cures and medical solutions in neurosurgical care. Our patient-friendly hospitals are outposts of innovation constantly evolving with the implementation of the latest in diagnostics, treatment technologies, state-of-art operating rooms and ICUs, cutting edge-communication systems and teamwork approaches that deliver the highest level of patient care. Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and Santa Monica UCLA Medical Center are world-class facilities making our vision a reality in the day-to-day operations that serve our community and patients from around the world. To sustain and advance our mission, we rely on the support of our partners, friends and donors. We are grateful to those who sponsor our Visionary Ball each year, ensuring our excellence in patient care, training, and discoveries for lasting cures.
UCLA NEUROSURGERY FACULTY
NEUROSURGERY EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP Neil A. Martin, M.D.
Marvin Bergsneider, M.D.
UCLA Neurosurgery Chairman and W. Eugene Stern Professor;Vascular Neurosurgery Director at the UCLA Stroke Center; Director of the Aneurysm and AVM program.
Professor and Co-Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs
Specializes in the research and treatment of neurovascular disorders, including arteriovenous malformation, aneurysm and stroke.
Linda M. Liau, M.D., Ph.D. Professor and Vice Chair of Academic Affairs Director of the UCLA Brain Tumor Program
Clinical expertise in intra-operative functional brain mapping and use of intra-operative imaging for brain tumor resections (gliomas, meningiomas, and metastatic tumors). Research efforts are focused on the molecular biology of brain tumors, gene therapy, immunotherapy, and brain cancer vaccines; current Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Neuro-Oncology.
David A. Hovda, Ph.D. Professor and Vice Chair of Research Affairs; Director of the UCLA Brain Injury Research Center
Research is dedicated to the understanding of the pathobiology of traumatic brain injury and the recovery of function after brain injury.
Specializes in minimally invasive and advanced endoscopic techniques for the treatment of pituitary tumors, skull base tumors, and hydrocephalus.
Langston T. Holly, M.D. Associate Professor and Co-Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs
Comprehensive Spine Center Member, Santa Monica, CA; Focuses on minimally invasive, image-guided techniques in surgical management of degenerative, traumatic, and neoplastic spinal disorders.
NEUROSURGERY FACULTY James I. Ausman, M.D., Ph.D.
Mel Cheatham, M.D.
Clinical Professor and former Chairman of Neurosurgery at Henry Ford Hospital and University of Illinois at Chicago; Editor of the international neurosurgical on-line journal, Surgical Neurology International, a free internet medical journal.
Clinical Professor of Neurosurgery
Known for his expertise in cerebrovascular diseases, complex neurosurgical problems, and microsurgery.
Ulrich Batzdorf, M.D. Professor and Executive Director of Spinal Neurosurgery
Primary clinical work and research focus are on the treatment of Chiari malformation, syringomyelia.
Donald P. Becker, M.D. Distinguished Professor, Chairman Emeritus
Expert in surgery of skull base tumors, other benign brain tumors, and pituitary tumors; founded a nationally recognized program in brain injury.
Manuel M. Buitrago Blanco, M.D., Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery and Neurology
As a board certified neurologist, with training in Neurocritical Care, he specializes in the treatment of patients with brain related emergencies that require intensive care such as trauma, brain hemorrhage, seizure and stroke. Using electrophysiology, proteomics and genomics techniques, Dr. Blanco focuses his research on understanding the brain’s mechanisms of repairing itself after injury.
Member of the UCLA Department of Neurosurgery Advisory Board, Member of the Editorial Board of the Journal of Surgical Neurology International, assistant in Neurosurgical Development Planning at UCLA.
Antonio A. F. De Salles, M.D., Ph.D. Professor and Director of the Stereotactic Surgery Program; CoDirector of the Radiosurgery Program
Focuses on noninvasive techniques of surgery in the management and treatment of inoperable brain tumors, using Novalis Shaped Beam Radiosurgery System; he also does research and surgery for Parkinson’s disease and various movement disorders, as well as surgery for pain and Alzheimer’s disease.
Duc H. Duong, M.D. Clinical Professor of Neurosurgery Chair Department of Neuroscience Drew-UCLA
Interests are in skull-base approaches to complex intracranial pathology, neurotrauma, epilepsy surgery, and minimally invasive and complex spine surgery.
Fredric L. Edelman, M.D. Clinical Professor and Peripheral Nerve Program Consultant
Expert in all peripheral nerve injury and peripheral nerve tumors, with a special interest in brachial plexus injury.
John G. Frazee, M.D.
Jorge A. Lazareff, M.D.
Clinical Professor and Director of the Neuroendoscopy Program
Geri and Richard Brawerman Professor in Pediatric Neurosurgery
Specializes in neurovascular and endoscopic procedures.
Primary focus is the treatment of children with neurosurgical disorders; involved with UCLA International Pediatric Neurosurgery Program since 2001.
Itzhak Fried, M.D., Ph.D. Professor and Director of the Epilepsy Surgery Program
Research and clinical work dedicated to treatment of intractable seizure disorders and epilepsy.
Nestor R. Gonzalez, M.D. Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery and Radiological Sciences; Ruth and Raymond Stotter Professor in Neurosurgery
Completed two separate and distinct residency training programs in both Radiology and Neurosurgery, as well as a Fellowship in Interventional Neuroradiology; specializes in the treatment of cerebrovascular diseases including aneurysms, intracranial and spinal vascular malformations, and stroke, using both minimally invasive endovascular techniques and neurological surgery.
Alessandra Gorgulho, M.D. Clinical Instructor in Stereotactic Surgery
Clinical specialty is focused on stereotatic radiosurgery for the treatment of chronic and cancer pain and trigeminal neuralgia. Primary research is dedicated to stereotatic radiosurgery, neuromodulation and novel applications of deep brain stimulation.
Jean-Philippe Langevin, MD, FAANS Assistant Professor-in-Residence
Expertise in neuromodulation and minimally-invasive neurosurgery, with research focus on traumatic brain injury, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Daniel Lu, M.D., Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery
Member of the Comprehensive Spine Center in Santa Monica. Clinical focus is on minimally invasive techniques in the surgical management of degenerative, traumatic, neoplastic, and spinal disorders; research efforts are focused on the molecular biology and regenerative treatment of traumatic spinal cord and brain injury.
Dennis R. Malkasian, M.D., Ph.D. Associate Clinical Professor of Neurosurgery and Senior Clinical Anatomist for the Skull Base and Microneurosurgical Laboratory
Focus is training residents in operative techniques and CNS/PNS anatomy as it applies to neurosurgical procedures, which are correlated with developmental morphogenesis where clinically indicated.
Gary W. Mathern, M.D. Professor-in-Residence and Director of the Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Program
Works in conjunction with the Epilepsy Program to provide surgical treatment for children with epilepsy.
Duncan Q. McBride, M.D. Associate Clinical Professor and Chief of Neurosurgery at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center
Concentrates on spinal surgery, with a special interest in spinal fusion, degenerative traumatic disorders, and tumors; manages clinical, administrative and resident education programs at Harbor-UCLA.
Paul M. Vespa, M.D., FCCM, FAAN Professor-in-Residence of Neurosurgery and Neurology and Director of the Neurocritical Care Program
Focuses on critical care for the treatment of neurosurgical and stroke patients.
Isaac Yang, M.D. Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery
Nancy McLaughlin, M.D., Ph.D. Assistant Clinical Professor of Neurosurgery
Specializes in neurovascular disorders, pituitary lesions, and complex skull base lesions, and developing strategies to optimize surgical and perioperative care for patients undergoing neurosurgical procedures.
Nader Pouratian, M.D., Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery and Director of the Neurosurgical Movement Disorders Program and Peripheral Nerve Surgery Program
Specializes in surgeries to restore and preserve brain function, including deep brain stimulation for movement disorders (and other emerging indications) and surgeries that require brain mapping; treats peripheral nerve and brachial plexus injuries and tumors; focuses on research to develop novel interventions and technologies for neurological restoration.
Bob Shafa, M.D. Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery
Specializes in the surgical treatment of pituitary tumors as well as degenerative and traumatic spine disorders; special focus in the management of traumatic brain injury and clinical interests in the surgical treatment of malignant and benign brain tumors, hemorrhagic stroke and strokerelated conditions, as well as general neurosurgery.
Specializes in the surgical treatment and clinical outcomes of adult brain tumors at UCLA with an emphasis on acoustic neuromas, skull base tumors, and glioblastomas; special interest in very complex brain tumors, skull base tumors, acoustic neuromas, meningiomas, and astrocytomas.
RESEARCH SCIENTISTS Christopher C. Giza, M.D. Associate Professor-in-Residence with secondary appointment in the Department of Pediatrics
Conducts research investigating the pathobiology of and recovery from developmental traumatic brain injury.
Thomas Charles Glenn, Ph.D. Adjunct Assistant Professor
Research and clinical work are dedicated to the treatment of traumatic brain injuries.
Fernando G贸mez-Pinilla, Ph.D. Professor and Director of the Neurotrophic Research Laboratory with secondary appointment in Physiological Science
Conducts research on mechanisms of repair following traumatic injury to the brain and spinal cord.
Grace Griesbach, Ph.D.
Valeriy I. Nenov, Ph.D., Ph.D.
Adjunct Assistant Professor
Adjunct Professor and Director of the Brain Monitoring and Modeling Lab
Focuses her research on enhancing molecular mechanisms of neuroplasticity following traumatic brain injury.
Neil G. Harris, Ph.D. Associate Professor-in-Residence
Co-scientific director of the new 7 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy facility; research is focused on recovery of function after traumatic brain injury.
Xiao Hu, Ph.D. Associate Professor-in-Residence Director, Neural Systems and Dynamics Lab (NSDL)
Specializes in modeling of physiological systems dynamics and analysis of biomedical signals; currently funded for research related to intracranial pressure, cerebral blood flow velocity, electrocardiogram, and heart rate variability signals; active in research and development in medical informatics that involve large-scale database, data mining, and clinical decision support.
Carol Kruse, Ph.D. Professor
Research focuses on understanding the immunology of the brain and immunoresistance mechanisms used by tumor cells in order to develop new therapies for patients with malignant brain tumors.
Research focused on data management of large scale, multicenter clinical trials; software development of leading-edge, voice-enabled, cloud-based (information provided on demand) technologies for talking directly to Electronic Medical Records by patients and providers.
Mayumi Prins, Ph.D. Associate Professor-in-Residence and Director of the UCLA Traumatic Brain Injury Prevention and Education Program
Research focuses on the pediatric response to traumatic brain injury.
Robert M. Prins, Ph.D. Associate Professor-in-Residence
Conducts pre-clinical brain tumor immunotherapy research and Phase I clinical trials for malignant brain tumor patients.
Richard L. Sutton, Ph.D. Associate Adjunct Professor
Academic focus is on the development of injury models and improving recovery of function after traumatic brain injury.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT ITZHAK FRIED, M.D., PH.D. Dr. Fried is Professor-in-Residence and Director of the UCLA Epilepsy Surgery Program at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. During a career that spans more than 40 years, Dr. Fried has pioneered research on the neuronal basis of cognition and its enhancement using single-cell recordings and stimulation in humans. He leads the foremost single neuron physiology laboratory in the world and is an acknowledged leader in the field of epilepsy surgery. Dr. Fried’s work has yielded some remarkable results and provided insights into, among other things, the mechanisms underlying the voluntary control of movement and the mechanisms of memory formation. Leading an exemplary team of scientists, physicians and technicians, Dr. Fried was able to record the firing patterns of high-level neurons while patients were carrying out various sensory-memory tasks, such as navigating a video-game maze or watching movies. This remarkable, never-before achievement returned groundbreaking information, including that individual neurons in the human medial temporal lobe can discriminate among categories, represent specific location of behavioral relevance and, in some cases, respond in an invariant, explicit and sparse manner to celebrities, landmark buildings or familiar people. Dr. Fried earned his medical degree and completed his surgical internship at Stanford University. He completed his residency and fellowship in neurological surgery at Yale-New Haven Hospital.
“Whatever the mind of man can conceive, it can achieve.” —W. Clement Stone
NANCY MCLAUGHLIN, M.D., PH.D., F.R.C.S.C. Dr. McLaughlin is an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. She is actively involved in developing strategies to optimize surgical and perioperative care for patients undergoing a neurological procedure, specifically those with intracranial vascular lesions, pituitary lesions and complex skull-base lesions. Dr. McLaughlin is leading the development of a comprehensive multimodal care redesign strategy for neurosurgical patients, a care program called NERVS (Neurosurgery Enhanced Recovery after Surgery, Value, and Safety). NERVS is unique as it is a peri-operative care program designed to strategically implement multiple improvement initiatives throughout the surgical episode of care—pushing the frontier of the care-bundle concept to a mega-surgical care bundle. Dr. McLaughlin has authored numerous papers and book chapters on the management of vascular lesions and skull-base lesions and has received numerous awards for her research. She earned her medical degree and completed her neurosurgical residency at the University of Montreal, receiving the highest award in the Department of Surgery, and completed, with honors, a master’s degree in neurological sciences and a doctorate in physiology, working on the vascular implication of high-grade brain tumors on radio resistance. Dr. McLaughlin successfully passed her Canadian neurosurgical boards and is a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. She completed a fellowship in minimally invasive skull-base surgery at John Wayne Cancer Institute, allowing her to perfect her technical skills in endoscopic endonasal surgery and minimally invasive cranial approaches. She completed a second fellowship in cerebrovascular surgery and complex open skull-base surgery at UCLA.
“If you can dream it, you can do it.” —Walt Disney
PAUL M. VESPA, M.D., F.C.C.M., F.A.A.N., F.N.C.S. Dr. Vespa is a Professor of Neurology and Neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. As director of the Neurocritical Care Program at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, he has pioneered the role of robotic telepresence, as well as brain monitoring, in the neurointensive care unit. This year, Dr. Vespa and Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center welcomed RP-VITA—the first robot able to navigate the hospital on its own. The 5'5", 176-pound robot, dubbed “EVA” (short for executive virtual attending physician), drives on auto-pilot — unlike earlier models that physicians steered using a computer-linked joystick. This telepresence innovation frees doctors to devote more time to patient care without being distracted by the need to set up and manage a robot’s technological features. Using an iPad, Dr. Vespa can send EVA to a patient’s room, where it can examine a patient in real time. A two-way video monitor on the robot’s face enables the patient and doctor to see and hear each other. A 120x-zoom capacity allows Dr. Vespa to magnify a single word on a patient’s chart or zero-in on the patient’s eyes to check for dilated pupils. The robot, equipped with 30 sensors that allow it to see when its path is blocked by a gurney or curious bystander, possesses the intelligence to self-correct and plot a detour to its destination. This kind of revolutionary technology expands physicians’ capacity to see and treat more patients and greatly enhance patients’ access to specialized care. In 2005, Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center was the world’s first hospital to introduce a remote-presence robot into its neurological intensive-care unit. Dr. Vespa received his medical degree from the Ohio State University College of Medicine. He completed his neurological residency at the University of Virginia Medical Center and his neurological fellowship at the UCLA School of Medicine (now the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA). An editorial board member of several international journals, Dr. Vespa has published more than 160 scientific research articles and is funded to do neurocritical care research by the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Defense and the State of California Neurotrauma Initiative. He is Clinical Director of the UCLA Brain Injury Research Center, a fellow-elect of the American College of Critical Care Medicine and the American Academy of Neurology, and Chair of the United Council of Neurologic Subspecialties.
MAYUMI PRINS, PH.D. Dr. Prins is an Associate Professor-in-Residence in the Department of Neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. She also serves as Director of the UCLA Brain Injury Research Center’s Education Program, which she established in 2003 to share with the public current knowledge about brain injury. The program visits schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District to teach students, kindergarten through 12th grade, about the consequences of head injury and injury prevention. For more than 21 years, Dr. Prins has studied the effects of traumatic brain injury on the developing brain, with her research finding that while the normal brain uses glucose as a primary fuel source, the injured brain has problems processing this fuel. Another exciting area of Dr. Prins’ research focuses on the effects of concussions and repeat concussions in adolescent and young adult brains. Her work recently revealed that the duration of vulnerability after a single concussion is related to the duration of metabolic dysfunction. This work examined a potential biomarker for concussion and return-to-play issues, which were highlighted by an editorial in the Journal of Neurotrauma. This model is being used to examine, among other things, the effects of gender on sports-related repeat injuries and therapeutic interventions to reduce symptom durations. Dr. Prins received her doctorate in Neurobiology and completed postdoctoral studies in Neurosurgery at UCLA. She also completed postdoctoral studies in Anatomy and Cell Biology at the Medical College of Virginia.
“There are no great limits to growth because there are no limits of human intelligence, imagination, and wonder.” —Ronald Reagan
THE UCLA GLOBAL NEUROSURGERY INSTITUTE In 2014, UCLA will launch the new UCLA Global Neurosurgery Institute to provide patientcentered service and redefine the standard of care for those with neurological disorders. This revolutionary institute will truly unite the three-part mission of patient care, training and research in one cohesive and coherent space. The institute, which will be located on the top two floors of the state-of-the-art Edie and Lew Wasserman Building, will advance the strength and excellence of UCLA Neurosurgery and its groundbreaking work and research. The UCLA Global Neurosurgery Institute will comprise a patient clinic, telemedicine center, training pavilion, and faculty center—all technologically advanced—creating a comprehensive neurosurgical complex with stellar impact. The UCLA Global Neurosurgery Institute promises to be a world-class facility that will help define the standard of treatment for neurological disorders, offer access to the latest therapies, and educate aspiring physicians and current neurosurgeons in cutting-edge medicine.
UCLA NEUROSURGERY SERVING THE COMMUNITY MAJOR NEWS SHOWS UCLA’S IMPACT
OCTOBER 2013 SURGERY REMOVES HALF OF BOY’S BRAIN The East Valley Tribune reported Oct. 7 on a young boy who underwent a cerebral hemispherectomy—the removal of half the brain—at Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA to treat his chronic seizures. The boy’s surgeon, Dr. Gary Mathern, professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and director of the UCLA Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Program, and Dr. Shaun Hussain, a neurologist at Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA, were quoted. DR. ULRICH BATZDORF RECEIVES PATIENTS’ CHOICE AWARD While doctors generally receive positive reviews from their patients, only a select few receive uniformly rave reviews worthy of a Patients’ Choice acknowledgement. In fact, of the nation’s 830,000 active doctors, only 5% were accorded this honor by their patients in 2012. Dr. Ulrich Batzdorf, Professor Emeritus of Neurosurgery was recognized.
SEPTEMBER 2013 SPINAL SURGEON SAVES VET FROM PARALYSIS A columnist for the Veterans News Service Los Angeles published a Sept. 21 first-person account of his experience undergoing decompression spinal surgery at UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica to prevent paralysis. Dr. Daniel Lu, assistant professor of neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery, performed the minimally invasive procedure. MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY STOPS VERTIGO FROM MENIERE’S DISEASE The Acorn newspaper reported Sept. 19 on a surgery that snips the balance nerve on one side of the brain to stop the extreme vertigo resulting from Meniere’s disease, a balance disorder. Performed in tandem at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center by Dr. John Frazee, professor of neurosurgery, and Dr. Akira Ishiyama, professor of head and neck surgery, the procedure relies on a special endoscope invented by Frazee that allows Ishiyama to pinpoint the correct nerve through a smaller opening in the skull, halting the patient’s dizziness, protecting their hearing and allowing for a faster recovery. TREATING STROKE PATIENTS Dr. Neil Martin, chairman of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, was interviewed Sept. 11 on KNBC-Channel 4 about a minimally invasive treatment he pioneered to help patients who have experienced a hemorrhagic stroke.
EXPERTS URGE PROPER HEALING BEFORE HEADING BACK TO SCHOOL SPORTS A CBS News.com article published Sept. 2 about kids and concussions cited new guidelines codeveloped by Dr. Christopher Giza, associate professor of neurosurgery and pediatric neurology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA, for the handling of sports-related concussions .
AUGUST 2013 HEAD INJURIES CLEARLY LINKED TO BRAIN DAMAGE Dr. Neil Martin, chairman of neurosurgery, described how repeated blows to the head affect the brain in an Aug. 28 article on NBCNews.com about the National Football League’s agreement to pay $765 million to settle a lawsuit brought by retirees with advanced dementia as well as the families of players who have died following sports-related head trauma. REMOVING HALF A CHILD’S BRAIN CAN BE BEST OPTION TO STOP SEIZURES, RESEARCH CONFIRMS Dr. Gary Mathern, professor of neurosurgery and director of the UCLA Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Program at Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA, was quoted Aug. 23 in NBC News.com and Aug. 26 in the Daily Mail (U.K.) about the effectiveness of cerebral hemispherectomies—the removal of half the brain—in treating chronic seizures.
JULY 2013 HOW ENVIRONMENT AND TECHNOLOGY CAN IMPROVE HEALTH CARE A July 12 U.S. News & World Report article on the use of technology in health care noted Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center’s EVA, a 5-foot, 5-inch robot that allows physicians to examine a patient in the neuro-ICU without leaving their offices. Dr. Paul Vespa, professor of neurosurgery and director of neurocritical care, was cited. OTL: DOCTOR’S ORDERS David Hovda, professor of neurosurgery and director of the Brain Injury Research Center, was featured in an Aug. 15 ESPN segment about the NFL’s concussion program. UNCOVERING THE BRAIN’S GPS Research by Dr. Itzhak Fried, professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and professor of psychiatry at the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at UCLA, and colleagues showing that the human brain contains a navigational system made up of “grid” cells was highlighted Aug. 4 by the New York Times, Israel’s All Voices, Science Daily and Laboratory Equipment, Aug. 5 by the Times of India, Press Trust of India, Science World
Report and Medical Xpress, Aug. 8 by KeystoneEdge and Tech2, and Aug. 10 by Philippines’ GMA News Service.
JUNIOR NEUROSCIENTISTS HIGHLIGHTED BY CHANNEL 7 KABC-Channel 7 aired a July 30 segment about UCLA’s Junior Neuroscience Training Program, a two-day course sponsored by the UCLA Department of Neurosurgery’s Brain Injury Research Center, which uses hands-on activities to teach teenagers about the brain and pique their interest in neuroscience careers. Program director Mayumi Prins, an associate professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, was interviewed. NFL EXPLORES NEW CONCUSSION GUIDELINES New guidelines for diagnosing and treating concussion that were coauthored by Dr. Christopher Giza, associate professor of neurosurgery and pediatric neurology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA, were reported July 30 by NFL.com. Giza was quoted. ESPN INTERVIEWS CONCUSSION EXPERT Dr. Christopher Giza, associate professor of neurosurgery and pediatric neurology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA, was interviewed July 21 on ESPN Radio’s “New York Sports and Beyond” about new guidelines he helped develop for the handling of sports-related concussions. UCLA LIVE-TWEETS GUITARIST’S AWAKE BRAIN SURGERY Media around the world covered Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center’s 500th deep brain stimulation surgery in a patient who played guitar on the operating-room table midway through the procedure. The surgery, which implants a pacemaker in the patient’s brain to regulate essential tremor, was tweeted live, with pictures and video posted on Instagram and vine. News coverage included Los Angeles Times, KCBS-Channel 2 and CNET on May 23, May 30 by iTech Post, May 28 by CNN and CNN en Español; May 26 by KNBC-Channel 4 ; May 25 by Britain’s BBC, the Sacramento Bee, MSN.com, Medical Daily, Examiner.com and Iran’s ISNA ; May 24 by Yahoo! News, Britain’s Daily Mail, iHealth Beat, Ubergizmo and the Digital Journal ; and May 23 by the Huffington Post and KNX 1070AM. Dr. Nader Pouratian, assistant professor of neurosurgery, was quoted in the coverage, which included Canada’s CBC and Iran’s Tagrib News. SURGERY TO REMOVE HALF OF BOY’S BRAIN The Register-Guard (Eugene, Ore.) reported July 7 on a young boy who will soon undergo a cerebral hemispherectomy—the removal of half the brain—at Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA to treat his chronic seizures. The boy’s surgeon, Dr. Gary Mathern, professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and director of the UCLA Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Program, was quoted.
NEUROSURGEON HONORED FOR EPILEPSY WORK Phys.Org July 5 and News-Medical.net July 4 reported that Dr. Gary Mathern, professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and director of the UCLA Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Program, has been honored by the International Bureau for Epilepsy and the International League Against Epilepsy for his contributions to epilepsy research and treatment in children.
JUNE 2013 KCAL COVERS MID-FLIGHT RESCUE Dr. Brandon Evans, a UCLA neurosurgery fellow was interviewed for a June 21 KCAL-Channel 9 segment describing the rescue of a fellow airline passenger who suffered a heart attack mid-flight. WIDE MEDIA COVERAGE ON NEED FOR SPEED TO TREAT STROKE Dr. Neil Martin, co-director of the UCLA Stroke Center and professor and chair of the department of neurosurgery, was featured in a June 18 KABC-Channel 7 health segment about a UCLA study showing the importance of getting to an emergency room as soon as possible after a stroke. Receiving a clot-busting drug to restore blood flow as soon as possible after a stroke occurs can minimize damage to the brain. Separately, the study was also featured in health segments on 45 television stations nationwide, including KCBS-Channel 2, KBAK-Channel 29 (Bakersfield), KVAL-13 (Eugene, Ore.); WDSU-Channel 6 (New Orleans); and WLAJ-Channel 6 (Lansing, Mich.). In addition, the study was featured June 18 by ABCNews.com, Newsday.com, U.S. News & World Report, EverydayHealth.com, Science Codex, KMBZ 98.1FM (Kansas City, Mo.), OzarksFirst.com, Nurse.com, SeniorJournal.com, laboratoryequipment.com, Onmedica. com, Onlymyhealth.com, HealthCanal.com, and Health24.com. Dr. Jeffrey Saver, professor of neurology, co-director of the UCLA Stroke Center, and the study’s first author, was also quoted in the print coverage. ELECTRIC BOOST HELPS BRAIN LEARN BETTER The Pakistan Observer reported June 11 on a study led by Dr. Itzhak Fried, professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine and professor of psychiatry and biobehavioral sciences at the Semel Institute, showing that human memory can be improved by electrically stimulating a key area in the brain as it learns to navigate a new environment. Fried is quoted. CONCUSSIONS CAN AFFECT BOYS AND GIRLS DIFFERENTLY, BUT ALWAYS REQUIRE CAREFUL MEDICAL ATTENTION Dr. Christopher Giza, associate professor of neurosurgery and pediatric neurology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA, commented June 5 in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution about how concussions can affects girls and boys differently. The article was carried by the Sacramento Bee.
MAY 2013 HOW FRUCTOSE DISRUPTS MEMORY, LEARNING A column in the May 15 Times of India highlighting modern developments that may be making humans dumber cited a study by Fernando Gomez-Pinilla, professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and professor of integrative biology and physiology in the UCLA College of Letters and Science, showing how a high-fructose diet can slow the brain and hamper memory and learning. ROBO-DOC NAVIGATES HOSPITAL ON OWN A new iPad-powered robot that can navigate Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center’s neurointensive care unit on its own, affording physicians more time to care for critically ill brain-injury patients, was covered May 8 by AZoRobotics and Telepresence Options ; May 7 by the Daily Mail (U.K), Russia’s RIA Novosti, L.A. Weekly, Fox News, Smart Planet and Technorati ; and May 6 by KTTV-Channel 11, CNET, QMI news agency (Canada), Examiner.com and PadGadget. Dr. Paul Vespa, professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and director of the medical center’s neuro-intensive care unit, was quoted. UCLA TEAMS UP WITH IBM FOR BRAIN MONITOR KCAL-Channel 9 and City News Service reported March 26, Forbes reported March 18, and Smart Planet reported on May 6 that researchers at the UCLA Department of Neurosurgery are working with IBM and Excel Medical Electronics to test new software that monitors vital signs and other data to predict rising brain pressure in patients who have suffered traumatic brain injuries. 60 MINUTES HIGHLIGHTS INVISIBLE WOUNDS OF WAR David Hovda, professor of neurosurgery and director of the Brain Injury Research Center, was featured in a May 5 CBS 60 Minutes segment about the military’s treatment of traumatic brain injury. Hovda was credited as the individual who convinced the Pentagon that even a mild concussion can result in serious injury and should be treated.
APRIL 2013 DEALING WITH RARE CHILDHOOD DISEASES Dr. Gary Mathern, professor of neurosurgery and director of the UCLA Pediatric Epilepsy Program at Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA, was cited April 23 in a Connecticut Magazine article about the father of one of his patients whose foundation supports research efforts to find a cure for his daughter’s rare brain disease called Rasmussen Encephalitis. THE TEENAGE BRAIN AND SPORTS RELATED CONCUSSIONS Dr. Mayumi Prins, director of the BIRC Education Program at UCLA was interviewed by Super Mommy...Not about sports related concussions among the youth and discovering the teenage brain.
QUALITY IMPROVEMENT AT UCLA HEALTH SYSTEM The April 9 Becker’s Hospital Review featured an interview with Dr. Nasim Afsar-manesh, associate chief medical officer of UCLA Hospitals and executive director of quality and safety in the departments of medicine and neurosurgery, about innovative strategies UCLA hospital leaders are using to improve safety and quality, and ways the system teaches quality-improvement techniques.
MARCH 2013 LOCAL NEWSPAPER HIGHLIGHTS STROKE CENTER The Beverly Hills Courier reported March 22 that the UCLA Stroke Center was certified as a comprehensive stroke center by the independent Joint Commission and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. Comprehensive stroke centers offer the highest level of care, including neuro-intensive care units, complex neurosurgical interventions, and advanced brain and blood-vessel imaging. SUSPECTED CONCUSSION? TAKE PLAYER OUTTA THE GAME New guidelines co-written by Dr. Christopher Giza, an associate professor of neurosurgery and pediatric neurology with the David Geffen School of Medicine and Mattel Children’s Hospital at UCLA, for handling sports-related concussions, were covered March 19 by Examiner.com and the Westside Story; and March 18 by the New York Times, Associated Press, Yahoo! News, ABC News, CBS News, an NBC News blog, the Australian Broadcast Corporation, ABC News Online (Australia), Agence France Presse, The San Francisco Chronicle, HealthDay News, WebMD, San Diego Union-Tribune, Houston Chronicle, EveryDay Health, Medpage Today, Medscape, Bloomberg, BusinessWeek, Healio, Daily Rx News and more. Giza was quoted in the articles. Additional coverage included USA Today, a National Public Radio blog, a Los Angeles Times blog, Fox News, Toronto’s Global News, NBC News Channel and KNBC-Channel 4. VALERIE HARPER SHARES ‘AMAZINGLY SHOCKING DIAGNOSIS’ IN VIDEO MESSAGE Dr. Neil Martin, chairman of neurosurgery, was interviewed March 6 by Extra TV about the terminal brain cancer that actress Valerie Harper is fighting.
FEBRUARY 2013 PATIENT’S DAD SUPPORTS UCLA RESEARCH TO FIND CURE FOR RARE BRAIN DISEASE The Darien News (Conn.) reported Feb. 28, Britain’s Daily Mail reported Feb. 18, and Huffpost Live reported Feb. 14, on a young girl who underwent a cerebral hemispherectomy—the removal of half the brain—at Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA to treat her chronic seizures caused by Rasmussen’s encephalitis. The girl’s father has started a foundation called the RE Children’s Project
to raise money to support research to find a cure. The group has been successful in advancing UCLA’s research by providing funding to collect samples of RE tissue from around the world by using social media to generate awareness. The girl’s surgeon, Dr. Gary Mathern, professor of neurosurgery and director of the UCLA Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Program, was interviewed. In addition, Examiner.com and Medical Express reported Feb. 19, and News Medical.net reported Feb. 20 on the major donation made by the foundation to UCLA. AFTER BRAIN SURGERY, LOCAL BOY’S FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT Dr. Gary Mathern, professor of pediatric neurosurgery and director of the UCLA Pediatric Epilepsy Program at Mattel Children’s Hospital, was cited Feb. 21 in a Santa Maria Times article about a local boy who is recovering well after a hemispherectomy performed by Mathern to treat his uncontrollable seizures. NEW SURGERY FOR BRAIN HEMORRHAGE DRAWS HEADLINES The Beverly Hills Courier reported Feb. 15 on a UCLA neurosurgery study suggesting that a new endoscopic procedure produces safer and better outcomes than current surgical approaches for patients who suffer stroke due to bleeding in the brain. Dr. Paul Vespa, professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and director of the neurocritical care program at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, presented the findings last week at the International Stroke Conference in Honolulu. Vespa and Dr. Neil Martin, chairman of neurosurgery, were quoted. The Feb. 8 Examiner and Feb. 7 Scrubs Report also covered the findings.
JANUARY 2013 ONLINE OUTLET EXAMINES DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION Alzheimer Research Foundation published a Jan. 16 feature story about UCLA neurosurgeons’ use of deep-brain stimulation to stop tremors in Parkinson’s patients. The technique pulses electricity through electrodes implanted in the brain to short-circuit the misfiring neurons causing the tremors. The article profiled Dr. Antonio De Salles, professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, and one of his patients. CBS SPOTLIGHTS SURGEONS’ CURE OF MYSTERIOUS MALADY Dr. Isaac Yang, assistant professor of neurosurgery, and Dr. Quinton Gopen, assistant professor of head and neck surgery, were featured in a Jan. 24 episode on CBS’ “The Doctors” about a woman with a mysterious condition that amplified the sounds of her body and made them echo in her head. Gopen diagnosed her with a miniscule pore in her inner ear and collaborated with Yang to open her skull and plug the hole. The surgery instantly halted the noise, allowing the patient to return to a normal life. Both doctors were also quoted in Everyday Health. SCIAM EXPLORES SINGLE-NEURON MEMORY Scientific American published a cover story in its February issue about research on single-neuron
memory by Dr. Itzhak Fried, professor of neurosurgery and psychiatry and biobehavioral sciences at UCLA, and his colleagues. They are investigating how each cell in our brain may be responsible for storing the memory of a single concept, such as a person or thing in our daily lives. Fried co-wrote the article. BRAIN IMAGING STUDY OF ARIEL SHARON DRAWS GLOBAL PRESS The Associated Press, the New York Times, CNN, CBS online, ABC News, Ha’Aretz, Aljazeera ; and the Voice of Russia reported Jan. 28, and Agence France-Presse, Reuters, the Boston Globe, the Telegraph (UK), Bloomberg News, the Times of Israel and Jerusalem Post reported Jan. 27, that a team of American and Israeli neuroscientists using state-of-the-art MRI techniques found signs of consciousness in former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, who has been in a vegetative state for seven years. Martin Monti, an assistant professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and assistant professor of psychology at the College of Letters and Science who took part in the examination of Sharon, was quoted. VACCINES MIGHT BECOME ANOTHER WAY TO FIGHT CANCER Dr. Linda Liau, professor of neurosurgery and a researcher at the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, was quoted in a Jan. 18 HealthDay News article about research on the development of cancer vaccines. FUNDRAISING CONCERT PLANNED FOR BOY RECOVERING FROM BRAIN SURGERY Dr. Gary Mathern, professor of pediatric neurosurgery and director of the UCLA Pediatric Epilepsy Program at Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA, was cited Jan. 15 in a Tribune (San Luis Obispo) article about a young boy who recently underwent a hemispherectomy surgery with Mathern to treat his epileptic seizures. IS THERE A PERIOD OF INCREASED VULNERABILITY FOR REPEAT TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY? Research by the UCLA Brain Injury Research Center, part of the department of neurosurgery, was cited in a Jan. 10 ScienceDaily.com news article about the dangers of repeated traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
DECEMBER 2012 CLINTON’S BLOOD CLOT LODGED NEAR THE BRAIN Dr. Neil Martin, professor and chair of the department of neurosurgery, was quoted Dec. 31 in the Los Angeles Times and USA Today about the injury to Hillary Clinton and the blood clot discovered in a vein in the space between her brain and her skull.
HILLARY CLINTON HOSPITALIZED FOR BLOOD CLOT: HOW CONCUSSIONS AND CLOTS CONNECT David Hovda, professor of neurosurgery and director of the UCLA Brain Injury Research Center, was quoted in a Dec. 31 Time Magazine article about the injury to Hillary Clinton and the blood clot discovered in a vein in the space between her brain and her skull. BRAIN CHANGES CONTINUE AFTER CHILD’S CONCUSSION: STUDY Dr. Christopher Giza, associate professor of pediatric neurology and neurosurgery at Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA and a member of the UCLA Brain Injury Research Center, was quoted Dec. 12 in HealthDay and MyHealthNewsDaily articles about how concussions may affect kids for months after the injury. MORE CASES OF BRAIN DISEASE FOUND IN FOOTBALL PLAYERS David Hovda, professor of neurosurgery and director of the Brain Injury Research Center, was quoted in a Dec. 4 CNN.com article about professional football players and a brain disorder called chronic traumatic encephalopathy that many researchers suspect may be caused by repeated blows to the head.
NOVEMBER 2012 ‘GAMEBREAKER’ HELMET AIMS TO PREVENT CONCUSSIONS, HEAD INJURIES ON PLAYING FIELD Dr. Christopher Giza, associate professor of neurosurgery and pediatric neurology and a member of the UCLA Brain Injury Research Center, was quoted Nov. 5 in a San Jose Mercury News article about the long term effects of concussions in student athletes.
OCTOBER 2012 TORONTO STAR STUDIES HOW FRUCTOSE DISRUPTS MEMORY, LEARNING The Toronto Star reported Oct. 22 on UCLA research showing how a high-fructose diet can slow the brain and hamper memory and learning in rats. Fernando Gomez-Pinilla, professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and professor of integrative biology and physiology in the UCLA College of Letters and Science, was quoted; Rahul Agrawal, a senior researcher in integrative biology and physiology at UCLA, was cited. DOCTORS SHINE LIGHT ON CONCUSSIONS IN SCOTTSDALE SYMPOSIUM Dr. Christopher Giza, associate professor of neurosurgery and pediatric neurology and a member of the UCLA Brain Injury Research Center, was quoted Oct. 2 in an AZ Central article about how certain products said to prevent sports-related concussions are falsely advertised.
SPECIAL THANKS EDIE BASKIN BRONSON AND SKIP BRONSON HONORARY CHAIRMAN’S SPONSORSHIP
A special Chairman’s Sponsorship has been created for Edie Baskin Bronson and Skip Bronson in appreciation of their profound commitment to UCLA Neurosurgery. The faculty and staff of UCLA Neurosurgery are pleased to honor Edie and Skip’s patronage and recognize them as Honorary Chairman’s Sponsors of the 2013 Visionary Ball.
THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS AND FRIENDS FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF UCLA NEUROSURGERY PRESENTING SPONSOR
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TABLE HOSTS
FRIENDS SPONSORS
Anthem Blue Cross
Casa Colina Centers for Rehabilitation
Linda Liau & Marvin Bergsneider Carol & Frank Biondi Brain Lab Sylvia & Mel Cheatham Creative Artist Agency Cyberonics Helene & Peter Dameris
Clay Lacy Aviation Margit & Lloyd Cotsen Shari & Rob Friedman Dr. Nestor Gonzalez Deborah & Allen Grubman Victoria Jackson & Bill Guthy
Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Glenn Hinderstein Glencoe Aviation Group, Inc.
Dr. Jeffrey Eckardt Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
Joan Hotchkis
Dr. Dieter Enzmann Department of Radiological Sciences
Barbara & Dr. Gerald Levey Angela & Peter Mathes
Shirley Baskin Familian
Jane & Marc Nathanson
Evelyn A. Freed
Sherri & Arnie Nelson
Dr. Christopher Giza
Gina & William Petersen
Glendale Adventist Medical Center
Shelley Resnik and Famiy
Lisa Gregorisch Dempsey Extra
Spencer Stuart
Mrs. Jacqueline & Dr. John Holly Dr. Langston Holly Dr. David Hovda Karl Storz Endoscopy-America, Inc. Mahnaz & Matt Pouratian Lisa D’Andrea Schwartz & Tom Schwartz Surgical West, Inc. Tennenbaum Capital Partners United Health/Optum Services Dr. Paul Vespa Liza & Paul Wachter Linda & Dr. Robert Weinstein
Maria Hummer-Tuttle & Bob Tuttle Andrea & John Van de Kamp James Wiatt
SUPPORTERS
Lovee & Bob Arum
Michael Levine, Career Group
Burt Bacharach
Martha Luttrell
Rebecca & Arie Belldegrun
Michael Lynton
Bill and Evelyn Bernstein
Dr. Dennis Malkasian
Ruth & Jake Bloom
Pouran & Parviz Nazarian
Carrie Brillstein
Sherri and Arnie Nelson
Eli and Edythe Broad
Mayumi Ishii Post
Stephanie & Harold Bronson
Providence Health & Services Southern California
Don Crane Sherrie & Michael Dunn Joan Holland and Eli Glassman Wendy & Leonard Goldberg Larry and Dee Dee Gordon Kathy & Joe Grano Rochelle & William Jr. Handy Robin Garrell & Kendall Houk
Claudia & Bruce Resnikoff Richard and Ellen Sandler Family Foundation Richard Riordan Foundation Cathy & Louis Rosenmayer Helen Rosezear Jane and Marc Schorr
ICM Partners
Stephen Shapiro Westside Estate Agency
Dr. Ray & Ghada Irani
Shirley & Ralph Shapiro
J. Ben Bourgeois Productions, Inc.
Catherine Shattuck
James & Deborah Burrow Foundation
Shevell Group
Dora & Neil Kadisha
Sinai Temple Board
Loretta and Victor Kaufman
Lynne Steele
Keiter Family Foundation
The Streisand Foundation
The Kelemen Family
Robert Taylor
Jena & Michael King
Henry Tsai
Anne and Arnold Kopelson
Margaret & Howard Weitzman
Nuham & Alice Lainer
Elaine Wynn
Perry and Abbe Leff
Toni Howard and David Yarnell
Thank you to all of our donors whose contributions reached us after press time.
PRESENTING SPONSORS
PRESENTING SPONSOR
PRESENTING SPONSOR
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
Charlie and Peggy Norris, We are so fortunate to have friends like you who share our vision for the future.
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
Here’s to a brighter future for patients all over the world! Dr. Martin and Leti Light
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
We wish to thank Dr. Neil Martin, the Neurosurgeons, Anesthesiologists, and all the UCLA Medical Center nurses and staff
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
who provided such excellent care to our son, Mark. ~ Drs. Tricia & Tom Paulsen
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
We are grateful to Ralph and Rita Rudin for their visionary support that will benefit patients today and for generations.
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
We celebrate THEIR courage tonight.
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
Congratulations to RICHARD MERKIN, M.D. MEDICAL VISIONARY AWARD
WILLIAM FRIEDKIN VISIONARY ICON AWARD
CHUCK LORRE
RODNEY RESPECT AWARD
RABBI DAVID WOLPE COURAGE AWARD
Your standards of excellence are exemplary and inspiring.
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
Dear Steve, Congratulations on receiving this prestigious honor. You are a true Visionary and we are honored to call you our Partner and Friend. Love, Todd, Jason and David
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
DAD, You make this and anything possible. Thank you and congratulations. Love, Hilary, Will, Elizabeth, Holden and Zach
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
Julie and Jackson Yang Your outstanding commitment to UCLA Neurosurgery makes an invaluable difference.
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
Thank you for all that you do! Dr. Daniel Lu
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
Dr. Linda Liau and the UCLA Brain Tumor Program Team
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
thank Ted Gagliano for his continued support and generosity.
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
UCLA Neurosurgery thanks Seth Wohlberg and the RE Children’s Project
CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE
for their visionary support of Dr. Gary Mathern and our shared efforts to put an end to rare epilepsies like Rasmussen’s encephalitis.
PATRONS
PATRON
Dr. Neil Martin, You make an enormous dierence in so many lives. We know ďŹ rsthand and are forever grateful to you.
PATRON
We feel privileged to support you and the dedicated team of physicians who make up UCLA Neurosurgery. Thank you all for the extraordinary work you do. With admiration and gratitude, Edie Baskin & Skip Bronson
PATRON
Chuck, You are the Big Bang!
PATRON
Love, Edie & Skip
PATRON
Steve, An Oscar. 2 Super Bowl rings.
PATRON
And now THIS. The “Grand Slam”! With our love, Edie & Skip
PATRON
Billy, Thank you for your continuous commitment to patient care.
PATRON
Congratulations on your VISIONARY ICON AWARD. With appreciation and love, Edie & Skip
PATRON
UCLA Health and the
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Congratulate
2013 Honorees
 Steve Tisch Visionary Award
William Friedkin Visionary Icon Award
Richard Merkin, MD Medical Visionary Award
Rabbi David Wolpe Courage Award
Chuck Lorre
Rodney Respect Award
Your vision and achievements touch the lives of our UCLA community and beyond.
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PATRON
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Heritage Provider Network is proud to join UCLA Neurosurgery in honoring Richard Merkin, M.D. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor.
PATRON
YOU R WO R K
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10/7/13 4:15 PM
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I S GE N I US.
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PATRON
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PATRON
We are proud to support
UCLA NEUROSURGERY and join in honoring
STEVE TISCH RICHARD MERKIN, M.D. WILLIAM FRIEDKIN CHUCK LORRE and
RABBI DAVID WOLPE
Cheryl & Haim Saban
FOUNDERS
FOUNDER
When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive — to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.
—Marcus Aurelius
Congratulations to the honorees and we especially honor Dr. Neil M artin and his colleagues. Anthony & Jeanne P ritzker Family Foundation supporting
FOUNDER
We are delighted to support the heroic and pioneering work of DR. NEIL MARTIN and the entire UCLA DEPARTMENT OF NEUROSURGERY and we congratulate William Friedkin Chuck Lorre Richard Merkin Steve Tisch Rabbi David Wolpe for opening your hearts to support this incredibly worthy cause. Susan and Eric Smidt
FOUNDER
“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” – Albert Einstein
It is a privilege to honor my friend Dr. Richard Merkin, 2013 Medical Visionary Award Winner, and the miraculous work being conducted everyday at UCLA Neurosurgery.
B. Scott Minerd Global Chief Investment Officer Guggenheim Partners
BENEFACTORS
BENEFACTOR
We proudly continue our support of UCLA Neurosurgery and the incomparable Dr. Neil Martin and to honor Rabbi David Wolpe, whose eloquence, leadership and bravery inspire so many. 6 Debbie & Mark Attanasio
BENEFACTOR
[\ The Ausman Family Foundation salutes and congratulates
Neil Martin, MD and
The UCLA Department of Neurosurgery on their outstanding achievements in
Patient Care, Research and
Neurosurgical Excellence [\
BENEFACTOR
Dr. Neil A. Martin
Chairman and W. Eugene Stern Professor in Neurosurgery
applauds the extraordinary endeavors of the 2013 Visionary Ball distinguished honorees:
Steve Tisch
Visionary Award
Richard Merkin, M.D. Medical Visionary Award
William Friedkin Visionary Icon Award
Rabbi David Wolpe Courage Award
Chuck Lorre
Rodney Respect Award
Your vision, commitment and dedication are inspirational to us all. A special thank you to our Event Chair, Edie Baskin Bronson.
BENEFACTOR
Congratulations
Dick
You help make the world a better place. The Barth Family Foundation
BENEFACTOR
Dear Steve, Congratulations on this well-deserved honor. Thank you for all that you do to improve our city and the lives of so many people. Colleen and Bradley Bell
BENEFACTOR
Congratulations to our friends, Steven, David and Bill and to
Richard Merkin, M.D. and Chuck Lorre
Lynn & Les Bider
BENEFACTOR
Our warmest congratulations to our dear friend
Dr. Richard Merkin
and all of tonight’s esteemed honorees. Thank you for your tremendous outreach for UCLA Neurosurgery. Its work will benefit our entire community and we are very grateful to you for your efforts. With love, Robin and Elliott Broidy
BENEFACTOR
We would like to applaud the extraordinary endeavors of the 2013 Visionary Ball distinguished honorees: Visionary Award
Steve Tisch Medical Visionary Award
Richard Merkin, M.D. Courage Award
Rabbi David Wolpe Thank you for your incredible leadership and dedication to the UCLA Ronald Reagan Hospital And a special thank you to Dr. Neil Martin and Dr. Langston Holly for your loyal dedication to the UCLA Department of Neurosurgery
Beth & Josh Friedman Joleen & Mitch Julis
BENEFACTOR
Congratulations to Dick Merkin and all the Visionary Ball honorees. Dick, your generosity is a source of inspiration to us all. Love, Susan and Alan Casden
13-A106 Visionary Ball Ad Chuck_Layout 1 9/30/13 12:44 PM Page 1
BENEFACTOR
Congratulations Chuck Your talent, humor and generosity are an inspiration. CBS is proud to salute the extraordinary work of UCLA Neurosurgery.
Š2013 CBS Corporation
BENEFACTOR
PATTI AND STANLEY SILVER Many more stories like tonight’s will be told because of your visionary support. Thank you for being such good friends to UCLA Neurosurgery. Dr. Neil Martin
BENEFACTOR
To Chuck—
With Love From Above
BENEFACTOR
We proudly continue our support of UCLA Neurosurgery and congratulations on another successful year. Roger and Diane Duhl
BENEFACTOR
Dear Steve, Richard, Chuck, and Rabbi Wolpe, Bravo and Congratulations! No one deserves this honor more than you. K Much love, Sherry and Billy
BENEFACTOR
Dear Billy, You have always been our Visionary Icon. We are so proud of you! All our love, Sherry, Cedric, and Jack
BENEFACTOR
BENEFACTOR
BENEFACTOR
BENEFACTOR
BENEFACTOR
BENEFACTOR
Congratulations to tonight’s honorees
STEVE TISCH RICHARD MERKIN, M.D. WILLIAM FRIEDKIN CHUCK LORRE and
RABBI DAVID WOLPE
Bob and Debbie Harper Harper_VisionaryBall13_BW.indd 1
9/19/13 10:30 AM
BENEFACTOR
Congratulations to Richard Merkin M.D. and tonight’s awardees With respect and admiration, High Desert Medical Group
BENEFACTOR
We are proud to support the UCLA Neurosurgery Visionary Ball and congratulate Steve Tisch, Dr. Richard Merkin, Rabbi David Wolpe and all the honorees on this special evening. All of you make a tremendous difference in our world Suzanne and Ric Kayne Kayne Foundation
BENEFACTOR
For Billy, We send our congratulations and love from afar. Wish we could be there. Nancy and Howard Marks
BENEFACTOR
Congratulations Steve. Peter Morton
BENEFACTOR
Dr. Neil A. Martin and the UCLA Neurosurgery faculty and staff thank our dedicated Visionary Ball Chair, Dinner Committee, and Board of Advisors for their partnership and contribution in improving health care in our local community, across California, and around the world.
BENEFACTOR
THE LIZZIE AND JONATHAN TISCH FOUNDATION
To Steve, We are so proud of you. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor. Love always, Lizzie, Jon, Charles, Henry, & Mason
BENEFACTOR
Richard Merkin M.D. Your dedication and commitment have been an invaluable service to healthcare in this country. Congratulations and best wishes, Regal Desert Medical Group
BENEFACTOR
Richard,
Congratulations. We admire your work in the healthcare system and your support for the prevention of disease. 9 Jane and Terry
BENEFACTOR
Billy, Congratulations to a true visionary and a great friend. Love, Jeanne and Herb Siegel
BENEFACTOR
BILLY OUR HEARTIEST CONGRATULATIONS WE’RE SORRY WE CAN’T BE WITH YOU ON THIS SPECIAL DAY EVA AND MARC
BENEFACTOR
We would like to congratulate
Steve Tisch
on being an amazing visionary, a wonderful humanitarian and an incredible Dad!!! Much Love, Elizabeth, Holden, Zachary and Jamie
BENEFACTOR
Congratulations, Steve, on this most deserving honor. I am very proud of all your good works. Love, Joan
BENEFACTOR
BENEFACTOR
Dick, Congratulations on receiving this well-deserved Medical Visionary Award— as well as being the nicest person in the world. Steve & Anita Westly
BENEFACTOR
To Dr. Neil Martin, Dr. Gerald Levey, Dr. Tim Cloughesy, and all the skilled, caring staff at UCLA— With unending gratitude for granting us hope, giving us more days and nights and laughter and wonder and love; for ensuring promise in a dark time.
David Wolpe Eileen Wolpe Samara Wolpe
PARTNERS
PARTNER
PARTNER
We are pleased to support the work of UCLA and congratulate Dr. Richard Merkin, this year’s honoree. ^] Kathy and Ambassador Frank Baxter
PARTNER
WILLIAM FRIEDKIN A great Visionary. A true Icon. A wonderful Friend. Congratulations, Billy! Carole Black
PARTNER
PARTNER
Congratulations to our friends Steve Tisch, Chuck Lorre, Rabbi David Wolpe and all of the incredible Visionary Ball 2013 honorees! C Love, Roma Downey and Mark Burnett
PARTNER
E We proudly continue to support the inspired leadership of Dr. Neil Martin and applaud the vision and generosity of Dr. Richard Merkin. E Amanda Brown and Justin Chang
PARTNER
Carole Bayer Sager & Bob Daly
Dear Billy, “Visionary” is only the beginning of your many talents. Congratulations and love, Carole and Bob Sager/Daly_2013 UCLA VISIONARY BALL PROGRAM AD
PARTNER
Healing is a creative act, calling for all the hard work and dedication needed for other forms of creativity.
—Bernie S. Siegel
Love, Medicine & Miracles to the entire UCLA Neurosurgery team We believe in you and have seen, first-hand, the miracles you’ve performed. On behalf of my grandparents’ foundations, my family thanks you! Leslie Danelian and The Stephen Philibosian and Sirphue and John Conte Foundations.
PARTNER
In Honor of
Dr. Neil Martin and all the honorees. Remembering
Michael David on the 50th year of his loss. The Davids
PARTNER
速
PARTNER
Jonathan and Susan Dolgen Family Foundation warmly congratulates our friends— Billy Friedkin Steve Tisch Dr. Richard Merkin for their extraordinary accomplishments.
PARTNER
PARTNER
We are proud to support UCLA Neurosurgery! We especially want to thank
DR. LANGSTON HOLLY an incredibly gifted doctor and an amazing friend.
0 With great appreciation, John and Gloria Gebbia
PARTNER
A huge thank you to Edie Baskin, Dr. Neil Martin and the UCLA staff for their hearts and vision. And congratulations to all of tonight’s honorees Steve Tisch Richard Merkin, M.D. William Friedkin Chuck Lorre Rabbi David Wolpe
—Jill Grey
PARTNER
Congratulations
Billy!
Your accomplishments never cease to amaze us. We are proud to be your friend! With lots of love, Peggy and Sam Grossman
PARTNER
PARTNER
DEAR BILLY, YOUR VISION IN FILM, PHILANTHROPY AND FRIENDSHIP IS BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY. Project2
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CONGRATULATIONS ON ANOTHER GREAT ACHIEVEMENT! CAROLINE AND SIDNEY KIMMEL
PARTNER
Warm congratulations to Steve Tisch and the Visionaries at UCLA Neurosurgery
PARTNER
CONGRATULATIONS RICHARD MERKIN, M.D. on receiving the Medical Visionary Award for your dedicated efforts to improve healthcare delivery in the U.S. and your generous support of medical research. ., David & Ellen Lee
PARTNER
Patti, Because the vision and leadership you, Dr. Martin and Dr. Becker have, the UCLA Visionary Ball is a big success. Congratulations! A Proud Mom
PARTNER
Warmest wishes to our good friends Richard Merkin and Rabbi David Wolpe and congratulations to all the honorees on these well-deserved awards
PARTNER
Thank you Leti Light— for the megawatts of brainpower you expend to make this event a glowing success Patti & Peter Neuwirth
PARTNER
Thank you to the entire staff of the UCLA Neurosurgery Department for all the people that you help, everyday!
Your
loyalty,
commitment to excellence,
tireless efforts and support are critical to the success of the department.
Neil A. Martin, M.D.
T:5.5 in PARTNER
Congratulations to the honorees of the 2013 UCLA Neurosurgery Visionary Ball
Occidental Petroleum Corporation salutes UCLA’s Department of Neurosurgery for making strides in advancing treatments for brain surgery, brain tumors and human cognition research.
Headquartered in Los Angeles since 1920 oxy.com
T:7 in
Steve Tisch Visionary Award Richard Merkin, M.D. Medical Visionary Award William Friedkin Visionary Icon Award Chuck Lorre Rodney Respect Award Rabbi David Wolpe Courage Award
PARTNER
to dr. neil a. martin our esteemed leader of ucla neurosurgery we thank you and all the doctors and researchers who contribute to your vision and accomplishments.
with our admiration,
gail and gerald oppenheimer
PARTNER
For Billy, Our visionary, Our artist, Our friend. Love, Nadine and Fred
PARTNER
With appreciation and gratitude to Dr. Martin and the entire Neurosurgery team for all the extraordinary work you do. 5 Rita and Ralph Rudin Spencer and Evan
PARTNER
Congratulations to
Dr. Neil Martin,
the Visionary honorees, and the doctors and staff of UCLA Neurosurgery for their ongoing commitment to hope, healing, and humanity, and whose dedication has saved so many lives. John B (Jack) and Maggy Simon
PARTNER
EDIE & SKIP CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES
DONALD J. TRUMP
PARTNER
PARTNER
Ted and Dani Virtue want to congratulate Dr. Merkin for his great vision and commitment to excellence in healthcare.
FRIENDS
FRIEND
The future of neurosurgery UCLA Neurosurgery works tirelessly to invent new ways to serve our communities and the world. That’s why we’re proud to help support the 2013 Visionary Ball. We’d also like to congratulate Dr. Richard Merkin for making a difference in the future of health care.
41408CAIENABC 10/13
Anthem Blue Cross is the trade name of Blue Cross of California. Independent licensee of the Blue Cross Association. ®ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross name and symbol are registered marks of the Blue Cross Association.
FRIEND
FRIEND
BILL AND DICK, CONGRATULATIONS ON A WELL-DESERVED HONOR!
CAROL AND FRANK BIONDI ANNE AND ROBERT SIMONDS
FRIEND
FRIEND
FRIEND
ongratulations to UCLA Neurosurgery at this year’s Visionary Ball 2013
www.casacolina.org
FRIEND
As a Clinical Professor of Neurosurgery at UCLA, it is with great pleasure that I observe the outstanding leadership of Neil A. Martin, M.D. as Professor and Chairman. Congratulations to you, Neil, and to other faculty and staff of UCLA Neurosurgery, for the manner in which you keep the UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center at the forefront of research, education, and patient care.
Congratulations to the honorees for the Visionary Ball 2013 Richard Merkin, M.D. William Friedkin Chuck Lorre Rabbi David Wolpe
` With warmest regards, Mel Cheatham, M.D. and Sylvia Cheatham
FRIEND
A small change can make a big difference
FRIEND
At Cyberonics, our mission is to improve the lives of people touched by epilepsy, depression and other chronic disorders that may prove treatable with our patented VNS Therapy 速
Cyberonics proudly supports
2013 速
FRIEND
A heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Neil Martin and the entire UCLA Neurosurgery team. We thank Dr. Martin for his incredible skill and expertise. We could not have asked for better hands with whom to trust our child. We would also like to thank Dr. Nancy McLaughlin and Melissa Demer-Reider, for their kindness, guidance and grace under pressure. A special thank you to Sue Yudovin, who held our hands the entire way. With gratitude and appreciation, The Dameris Family Helene, Peter, Thomas, James and Isabella
FRIEND
FRIEND
Dr. Neil A. Martin Edie Baskin Bronson Richard “Skip� Bronson We applaud you and the 2013 Visionary Honorees for your continuing dedication and leadership. Shirley Baskin Familian and Richard Baskin
FRIEND
I proudly continue my support for UCLA Neurosurgery and congratulate all of tonight’s honorees. Evelyn Freed
FRIEND
UCLA Brain SPORT Sports Concussion Prevention Outreach Research & Treatment UCLA BrainSPORT is a cutting-edge, comprehensive concussion assessment and care program. Protect our youth athletes today.
concussioncare@mednet.ucla.edu
FRIEND
FRIEND
Facts about STROKE: • STROKE affects close to one million Americans every year. • People of all ages, including children and young adults, can suffer a STROKE. • Despite medical advances, some forms of STROKE can have rates of recurrence and death as high as 25% per year. Scientists at UCLA are conducting intensive research to discover the mechanisms of angiogenesis (new vessel formation) and to translate those findings in interventions to prevent stroke. In gratitude to all donors and supporters of our battle against STROKE The Investigators of the ERSIAS Study
Creating new pathways to prevent stroke For information about this study and how you can join our effort please contact (310) 206 2872 at UCLA.
FRIEND
To our very own Visionary Dr. Martin Thank you for your friendship, guidance and generosity. With your brains and our looks, we make an unstoppable team! Your “Extra” Family
FRIEND
CONGRATULATIONS,
BILLY! SO GLAD TO CALL YOU OUR FRIEND. WITH LOVE, VICTORIA AND BILL
FRIEND
Dear Lang, Congratulations to you and all of the UCLA Neurosurgery Visionaries on a great year.
The Hollys
FRIEND
Congratulations to all of tonight’s honorees
Best, Langston Holly, M.D.
FRIEND
Congratulations to Billy, With love, Joan & John
FRIEND
We congratulate UCLA Neurosurgery and its faculty on another outstanding year of patient care, research and teaching.
David A. Hovda, Ph.D.
FRIEND
KARL STORZ congratulates this year’s Visionary Award Honorees and recognizes the UCLA Department of Neurosurgery for its extraordinary vision and dedication to quality care.
© 2013 Karl Storz Endoscopy-america, Inc.
FRIEND
C ongratulations to our good friends Steve Tisch Billy Friedkin Richard Merkin Rabbi David Wolpe and
We are proud of your hard work and dedication to our community.
&Levey
Love, Barbara Jerry
FRIEND
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Congratulations to all the honorees, and to Skip and Edie for all their hard work and dedication to this great cause. { Angela and Peter Mathes
FRIEND
Special Thanks to the Residents, N.P.s, P.A.s Nurses, Techs, Office Staff and Spouses You make it all possible!
Duncan McBride, M.D. Thanks to Surgical West for sponsoring our table
FRIEND
We salute Billy Friedkin Richard Merkin David Wolpe Wonderful friends and outstanding leaders
The Jane and Marc Nathanson Foundation
FRIEND
We would like to extend our praise to the dedicated doctors, staff, and honorees and a special thank you to Myrna Gonzalez. To my best friend, Patti Neuwirth, for her endless dedication to helping this event grow into something truly special. Love,
Sherri & Arnie
FRIEND
FRIEND
The UCLA Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine congratulates UCLA Neurosurgery and its 2013 Honorees. You restore our world.
FRIEND
Dearest Billy, Congratulations and thank you for sharing your skills, your craftsmanship, your natural genius and your grand sense of humor. Thank you also, for letting us get to know Sherry. She is a treasure. But mostly, we are forever grateful for your gracious friendship. Peace pal, Gina & Billy Petersen
FRIEND
FRIEND
My heartfelt congratulations to tonight’s honorees and to those who work hard to make a difference in people’s lives. t Shelley Resnik and Family
FRIEND
spencer stuart recognizes great leaders.
it’s our business. Spencer Stuart applauds UCLA Neurosurgery for its leadership and commitment to trailblazing research and developing the next generation of neurosurgical experts and pioneers. We join them in recognizing this year’s honorees for their visionary support in accelerating the impact of this life-saving and life-improving mission.
www.spencerstuart.com
FRIEND
Congratulations to Dr. Neil Martin and this year’s Visionary Ball Honorees. i Lisa D’Andrea Schwartz and Tom Schwartz
FRIEND
FRIEND
2013
FRIEND
Congratulations to
Billy With love, Maria and Bob
FRIEND
Dear Billy, You are a true VISIONARY We are proud to support you and UCLA Neurosurgery
John and Andrea Van de Kamp
FRIEND
U
V Mary and Paul Vespa would like to thank the Neurocritical Care team members, nurses and neurosurgery residents for the compassionate care, dedication and hard work done on behalf of our patients.
U
We are indebted to the generous support of Mrs. Tsay, and the support of all our patients and families in helping us pursue excellence in patient care, research and teaching.
V
FRIEND
Billy, Congratulations from the bottom of our hearts! This is the perfect honor for you, as you are —and always have been— a true visionary. All our love, Liza and Paul
FRIEND
Linda Lou /Mommy, Your strength, determination and positivity are infinitely inspiring. To the next healthy and beautiful chapter— We love you beyond measure and are grateful everyday for Dr. Martin and the entire UCLA Neurosurgery team. With love, The Weinstein Family (and friends)
FRIEND
Congratulations to tonight’s honorees. Jim Wiatt
Forever Grateful
Burt Bacharach
Our dear Billy, Congratulations on a well-deserved honor. Your creativity and brilliance in everything you do are greatly admired. You are a true visionary.
With love, Rebecka & Arie Belldegrun
Billy, �ank you and Sherry for enhancing the lives of everyone fortunate enough to have know n you. Love, Bill and Evelyn Bernstein
Visionary ball 2013 5.5 x 7.pdf
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Congratulations to my friend Steve,
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J. Ben Bourgeois Productions, Inc.
512 North Larchmont Boulevard / Los Angeles / CA 90004 / 323.960.0600 / FAX 323.960.0606 / www.bourgeoisproductions.com
WITH GRATITUDE TO THE FACULTY OF UCLA NEUROSURGY AND DR. NEIL MARTIN WITH LOVE AND ADMIRATION TO LINDA WEINSTEIN FOR YOUR COURAGE AND DIGNITY LOVE, CARRIE BRILLSTEIN
Edye and Eli Broad salute
Dick Merkin, Billy Friedkin and
Steve Tisch for their visionary commitment to the UCLA Medical Center
To our dearest friend
Leslie Danelian, We love you so much and we cherish your friendship. You are a joy and blessing to everyone who knows you. Congratulations to all of the honorees. Much Love, Harold and Stephanie Bronson
Bravo to the Incomparable
Billy Friedkin! Congratulations
Chuck Lorre and Steve Tisch. Hurray for
Edie Baskin! Dr. Neil Martin, You are a gift to the entire medical community. Continued Success!
Wendy & Leonard Goldberg
Congratulations to all! Dee Dee and Larry Gordon
Joe and Kathy Grano are proud to support
UCLA Neurosurgery and congratulate
Steve Tisch Richard Merkin, M.D. William Friedkin Chuck Lorre and
Rabbi David Wolpe
We Proudly Support
UCLA NEUROSURGERY And Congratulate
WILLIAM FRIEDKIN Visionary Icon Award
CHUCK LORRE Rodney Respect Award
We salute our dear friend
Billy Friedkin
for all of his tireless, charitable efforts, and we congratulate him on receiving the Visionary Icon Award. It is a certainly a well-deserved honor for a truly remarkable man! With love and best wishes,
Ray and Ghada Irani
Congratulations
Rabbi David Wolpe Your inspired guidance, strength of character and courage continue to be blessings to us all.
Dora & Neil Kadisha
Billy
Congratulations
on receiving the
Visionary Icon Award With much love Anne & Arnold Kopelson
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE VISIONARY BALL HONOREES WITH SPECIAL LOVE AND RESPECT TO
DAVID WOLPE A MAN OF GREAT COURAGE, SPIRITUALITY, INTELLECT, HONOR, HUMANITY AND HUMOR
ALICE AND NAHUM LAINER
Dear Billy: A life well led. What a great thing when you can know you’ve had that. With great affection, Abbe and Perry
Congratulations, Billy on such a great honor and thank you!!! Â Love, Martha Luttrell
Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. Ralph Waldo Emerson
Rabbi David Wolpe Thank you for your commitment, vision and courageous service to our community. Your passion and leadership enrich the lives of many.
Pouran & Parviz Nazarian
NADER We are so proud of you for all your accomplishments and the lives you have touched . Special thanks to UCLA Neurosurgery. Talia Pouratian Mahnaz & Matt Pouratian Dr. Nazila & Matin Yadegar
PROVIDENCE Salut es UCLA Neurosurgery’s 2013 Visionary Ball & Dr. Richard Merkin
california.providence.org Providence Holy Cross Medical Center | Mission Hills Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center | San Pedro Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center | Torrance Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center | Burbank Providence Tarzana Medical Center | Tarzana Providence Affiliated Medical Groups Providence TrinityCare Hospice
1-888-HEALING (432-5464)
Congratulations to
STEVE TISCH A True Visionary Among
Claudia and Bruce Resnikoff
and Dick Riordan are proud to support UCLA Neurosurgery's Visionary Ball and the 2013 honorees: Steve Tisch Dr. Richard Merkin, William Friedkin, Check Lorre, and Rabbi David Wolpe.
Most proud to contribute to the outstanding UCLA Neurosurgery and to a successful evening.
Louis & Cathy Rosenmayer
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR FRIENDS
RICHARD MERKIN AND
DAVID WOLPE AND ALL THE HONOREES WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED SO MUCH TO THE WORK OF UCLA NEUROSURGERY
ELLEN AND RICHARD SANDLER
We are pleased to join in honoring and celebrating
Rabbi David Wolpe and the leadership of
UCLA Neurosurgery
Ralph & Shirley Shapiro
Congratulations to all of tonight’s honorees, especially my good friend, Billy Friedkin. And thank you to UCLA— for your tireless commitment to saving lives.
—Barbra Streisand
CONGRATULATIONS
to all of this year’s honorees but most importantly to our friends:
STEVE TISCH
a Giant supporter of a great cause as this year’s recipient of the Visionary Award.
BILLY FRIEDKIN
the Director’s Director and a real life Visionary Icon.
CHUCK LORRE
he makes the world smile, his generosity has earned our Respect.
Margaret and Howard Weitzman
Billy, We are so blessed to have you as a friend. As a director of some of the most important films, and now operas, a writer of a best-selling autobiography, you have proved there is nothing you cannot do. And your crowning achievement— the mutual love between you and Sherry. Congratulations, sent with intense love and admiration, Toni & David
UCLA Neurosurgery Patient and Family Advisory Council (NPFAC)
Mission: To facilitate collaboration between the Neurosurgery staff, patients and families. The NPFAC is committed to promoting compassionate care and empowering patients and families to better understand and participate in their hospital experience. Members: Wendy Tucker (Co-Chair), Stephen Drake, Evelyn Freed, Scott Hyman, Lorie Kahn, Katherine Lee, Brad Lusk, Thomas Pflaumer, Lexi Rohner, Doriana Sanchez, Laurie Schaeffer, Wade Welch, Jody Anderson, Elizabeth Cattell, Steve Cohen (Co-Chair), Leti McNeill Light, Bob Shafa, MD.
For additional information, please contact Steve Cohen, CAO, Department of Neurosurgery stevencohen@mednet.ucla.edu.
Our sincerest thanks and grateful appreciation to
Dr. Marvin Bergsneider, an outstanding, brilliant and dedicated neurosurgeon, a kind and compassionate gentleman, and a credit to the medical profession. And many thanks and appreciation to UCLA Neurosurgery for their exceptional professional help.
—Miriam and Bill Cohen and Family
Thank you, UCLA Neurosurgery, from the bottom of our hearts for all of the lives your healing hands have touched. Megan & Stephen Drake
LOVES UCLA NEUrOSUrgEry Thank you for all your hard work.
Congratulations to all the honorees. Best wishes, Bill Isacoff
Congratulations to Steve Tisch and his fellow UCLA Neurosurgery Honorees on this terrific evening! Patrick & Kristina Hare Lyons
We are proud to support UCLA Neurosurgery in honor of William N. Shattuck
Congratulations, Billy! All our love, Maxine and Gary Smith
We are proud to recognize all honorees for • providing the finest neurosurgical patient care • best hospital facilities available • promoting research and technological developments in neurosurgery and • training the next generation of neurosurgical experts Congratulations to all and a special thank you to Dr. Langston Holly.
STEVE AND LINDA WASSERMAN
I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.
—Thomas Jefferson
Karen and Gary Winnick are proud to honor Steve Tisch, Rabbi David Wolpe, and Richard Merkin and to support UCLA Neurosurgery.
OUR WARM CONGRATULATIONS AND APPRECIATION TO ALL OF THE HONOREES AND UCLA NEUROSURGERY TOSHKA AND NORMAN ABRAMS
Epstein Becker Green is proud to support UCLA Neurosurgery and congratulates Dr. Richard Merkin on this well-deserved honor
Kaela, Michele, and the whole Elmido Family support UCLA Neurosurgery! Yogurt Haven Locations: 2256 Colorado Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90041 12510 Vanowen St., N. Hollywood, CA 91605
ebglaw.com
Edie, Thank you for your friendship and your incredible enthusiasm to help others!!! Love, Richard and Julie Harrah
 In honor of Linda M. Liau, M.D., Ph.D. and her amazing team. You are our angel! Peggy, Shahrokh & Angela Rezai
A big THANK YOU to Dr. John Stern From, John, Chris and Dick Newman
To
Edie, Love, Odette and Joe
Chuck, Thank you for your comedic brilliance. Congratulations on this honor. Love, Mark Sweet
EDIE BASKIN BRONSON
for your tireless efforts on behalf of UCLA Neurosurgery,
WE SALUTE YOU! Elka Weiner & Family
The RE Children’s Project www.rechildrens.org
congratulates UCLA Neurosurgery for their commitment to helping children improve their lives. Seth H. Wohlberg
In honor of our friends, Edie Baskin Bronson and Skip Bronson, Loeb & Loeb is proud to support Dr. Neil A. Martin and the UCLA Neurosurgery Department in saluting the efforts of the Visionary Ball 2013 honorees. 10100 Santa Monica Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90067 310.282.2000
Los Angeles New York Chicago Nashville Washington, DC Beijing Hong Kong www.loeb.com
PRODUCTION CREDITS Produced By
Scott Mauro Entertainment, Inc. Scott H. Mauro, Executive Producer Line Producer /Production Manager
Assistant Stage Manager
Brian Fitzmorris Lineset10
Peter Szeliga
Writer
Darryl Harris Charlie Jenkins
Editors
Shelly Goldstein
Teleprompter
Computer Prompting Services
Video Playback
Norm Levin & Co.
Production Crew Sound
Marie Scott—Lead Kirk Graves Justin Kief John Mortl James Pomichter Jeremy Susel Kari Swanson
Drew Aldridge ATK / Audiotek Lighting Designer
Frank Olivas Art Director
Aubree Cedillo Assistant to the Producer
Pianist
Worth Howe
John D. Randall
Stage Managers
Security
Steve Eng Sara Gosschalk Dan Selon
Special Event Management
SPECIAL THANKS
Silviya Aleksiyenko
Marcia Franklin
Greg Janese / Paradigm
Angie Alvarado
Mackenzie Gabriel
Leti McNeill Light
James Cutfield
Myrna Gonzalez
Stephen Stagg
Porcha Dodson
Grant Associates
Jeffrey Stewart
Chris Drohan
Michael Hanson
Champions aren’t made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them—a desire, a dream, a vision. They have to have the skill, and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill. —Muhammad Ali
UCLA Neurosurgery • 757 Westwood Plaza • Box 957436 • Los Angeles, CA 90095-7436 Phone: 310-267-9447 • Web: neurosurgery.ucla.edu • Email: neurosurgery@ ucla.edu • Twitter: #UCLAVBall