Readers of Orthopedics This Week paid tribute to Antonio Castellvi, M.D. last week by registering the highest number of pageviews we’ve ever had for a story of a surgeon. Readers also paid tribute with their words. Below are some of the comments.
“My son became a patient of Dr. Castellvi in Dec. /January 2013-14. As a former Surgical Technician in the Tampa Bay area I knew of his surgical expertise and was very relieved to know my son was in good ‘hands.’ From myself and family, we extend with much sadness, our deepest, sincere sympathy to his family. With much respect.
—April Strouse & Family
“My condolences go out to the Castellvi family. I had the great pleasure of working with him several years ago when I was a regional sales manager at a spine company. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.”
—John Conti
“I don´t believe it…from Spain, all the spine surgeons are…I don´t know what is the appropriate word in English…Personally, Tony showed me a new view of medical decisions…His enthusiasm in his work and his family showed me a new perspective…His big smile and passion will forever be missed…
My family heart condolences go to his family…My little son…Juan, knew him 6 months later and doesn´t understand what’s happened. He remembered him with a big smile and a respected friend of me. I´m sorry for my English.”
—Dr. Rafael Ramos, Spine Service, University of Valladolid, Spain
“I rarely read the newspaper but to pick it up on this rare occasion and be hit with this awful, awful loss is devastating to all of us who knew and loved ‘Nuno’. My heart and tearful condolences go to his family and those who were lucky enough to cross his path. Sincere prayers.”
—George Alvarez
“Dr. Castellvi just performed spinal fusion on me a month ago. I could not have found a more brilliant physician and kinder gentleman than he. I feel lost without him in the follow up care I might need, but I feel even greater sorrow in losing what felt like a true friend.”
—Jeffrey Baker
“My heart, too, is heavy with the loss of Tony. Even though I only had the pleasure of his presence a few times and at Cheech’s wedding, Dr. Castellvi was beautiful in my eyes. Ramona, Jorge and the rest of your beautiful family, please know that this was God’s will. Trust that his wonderful life on earth will continue through you.”
—Cynthia (Billys) Olson
“From all of us at Aurora Spine – We are deeply saddened by the death and loss of our friend Dr. Castellvi. His smile & passion will forever be missed.”
—Trent Northcutt and Team Aurora
“I have never met a finer gentleman than Dr. Castellvi. He allowed me to walk again on Sept. 9, 2013. I am proud of my 10″ scar down my back, and will wear it with pride!”
—Mary Canedy
“So sad to hear of the passing of such a great figure in our industry. Dr. Castellvi was always the quintessential gentleman to everyone he dealt with, regardless of their station in life. I knew Tony over the years as someone with whom I periodically worked as a distributor and rep. He always greeted me with his contagious ear to ear grin along with his full attention and respect. All of us in the industry will miss him as a great surgeon but even more importantly, as a great friend!”
—John I. Maynard
“I have known Tony and his brothers Willie and Jochi since we were kids. We vacationed together with our families. Our children grew up together. Aside from all of his great accomplishments in spine surgery, his even greater accomplishment was that of a Father, Husband and friend. There will always be a void in my heart. I love you and miss you, my Brother. May God smile on you forever !!!!!”
—Luis Crespo, M.D.
“Dr. Castellvi saved my life June 8, 2013.”
—Frederico Pollicina
“Dr. Castellvi was a perfect example of what a great spine surgeon should be. He achieved a good balance in life succeeding in all aspects of and prioritizing family, friends and patients. He was unique and will be missed.”
—Frederico P. Girardi, M.D.
I started going to him when I was 13, the yr. your oldest was born. I remember because he had to leave the office right away because his wife was in labor. I looked for years for him here and there on the internet. Only thing was I put in Scoliosis so I never found him till a new friend of mine was in the braces making part knew of him and told me of the news, I was a kid back then but I remember I really liked him. So sorry for your loss .