Dear Pediatric Neurosurgical Colleagues,

On August 4 we all lost a wonderful friend and colleague with the passing of R. Michael Scott. We often talk about surgeons as legends or masters, but Dr. Scott truly was an unparalleled figure in pediatric neurosurgery. He was nationally and internationally respected as a leader in the field, and he himself led every major organization within the field of pediatric neurosurgery, including being Chair of the Pediatric Section. He was a respected surgeon, and we all listened attentively to the talks he gave and the questions he asked at our section meetings.

I had the privilege to work alongside Dr. Scott for 26 years, and the honor of calling him my mentor. Mike was indeed a surgical maestro, but also a humble man, and it was never “about him”. He was a down to earth individual dedicated to his patients, and to advancing everyone around him.  He was the heart and soul of the Department of Neurosurgery at Boston Children’s Hospital, and the visionary who built the foundation of the department based on sub-specialization, a model that all programs now emulate. Beyond that, he was the nicest, most caring individual one could imagine, and a loyal friend to all of us.

Dr. Scott fought a brave battle with brain cancer, and remained true to his core values and beliefs until the end. He died peacefully at home with his amazing wife Susan at his side. Mike taught all of us the value of balance in one’s life, and despite his dedication to neurosurgery, his family was always the most important part of his life.

There has been an outpouring of sympathies over the past two days, for which we are grateful.  Thanks for your caring and support. 

Mark Proctor