Testimonials
“Dear Dr. Villavicencio,
“I'm writing to thank you for the microdiscectomy that you performed on me on December 30th. The change from before to after is like night and day, and I can't thank you enough for the change in my day-to-day quality of life. I'm taking the return to training slowly, as per Bob Cranny's instructions, but being able to walk, sleep, sit and lie down without pain is such an enormous improvement over where I was on December 29th, and I'm really grateful to you. It seems weird to say it: in December, I had more or less given up hope of getting back into sports – it was tough to think of myself as an athlete when I had to spend the first couple of hours in the day on my hands and knees because I couldn't straighten up or put any weight on my leg. One of my cycling partners called me today, and was talking about riding together in the summer, and now that seems like a realistic possibility...
Gordon Henderson
Toronto, Ontario
“I am writing to discuss my recent experience in receiving care by Dr. Alexander Mason, MD, Boulder Neurosurgical Associates. Prof., LLC, and Exempla Good Samaritan Medical Center. From our very first meeting, I felt incredibly comfortable with Dr. Mason and he kept me well informed about all of the different options that were being laid out before me. I was treated with compassion, respect, concern, and most importantly, like a human being who was experiencing some health uncertainties and needed guidance. Dr. Mason and his staff kept me updated and well informed on what my procedure would entail and what that meant for myself and my family. I was told by my family after my procedure that they were treated with the utmost care and respect by the entire neurosurgical and medical team. As his patient, I was also able to have a direct line of communication with him via email, which is exceptionally comforting when you have so many questions, concerns and thoughts racing through your mind. I would 1,000% recommend Dr. Mason and his phenomenal staff to provide care to anyone seeking nothing but the best in facilities, medical staff and courteous treatment. And if anything should ever go wrong with me again, neurologically speaking, I would personally give Dr. Mason a call. Thanks again to Dr. Mason for being the incredible doctor that he is!”
Mrs. D. Jessop
Loveland, CO
“Dear Dr. Mason,
“I want to express my sincere gratefulness for the professionalism that you and your staff demonstrated on my behalf during my medical emergency.
“Within a very short timeframe of being notified that an MRI revealed my follicular lymphoma, stage-4, had changed over to large diffused B-cell lymphoma, stage-4, with additional diagnosis that I had spinal cord compression due to an epidural tumor, you took control, evaluated my situation and determined that time-sensitive surgery was required and you did so within hours with maximum positive results!
Stewart Martin
Broomfield, CO
“Thanks, Dr. Nelson, for your neurosurgical expertise and one-in-a-million, amazing personal care. I hope you will remember me as one of your most grateful success stories. My family(-ies), friends and coworkers are truly impressed with the immediate relief I received after the outpatient/same day procedure.
“P.S. This stationary marks our (Larry and I) 17th wedding anniversary, which we were unable to truly celebrate on 10/10/09, the date of my MVA. More importantly we thanked God for life that day…and even more so now! ?☺“
Michele Berreth, RN
Longmont, CO
“Dr. Mason was very caring, matter-of-fact and did not sugar coat anything when I broke my back. He made it so easy to decide what was best for the future of my crushed T4, sustained in a high impact bicycle accident in the Spring of 2009. A small fragment sat near the spinal cord and one can only guess what could have transpired. I have little idea what my six-hour surgery entailed, but I assume from the x-rays it must have been absolutely grueling to perform such a precise and tedious task. I am in AWE when I look at the placement of each and every piece of hardware, designed to promote the healing of the reconstructed area. It's difficult to fathom Dr. Mason painstakingly molding and probing and whatever else he may have done in such a small space under the muscles. I have full use of my arms and legs with NO numbness or tingling. Even the scar is becoming barely noticeable to those who have no knowledge of my ordeal. There is NO hump or disfigurement in my posture. They say a dog is as good as his owner. Once willed by the hands of God, I say a man is as good as his surgeon.
Dennis Bashline
Boulder, CO
“The big news is that I have been kicked out of the hospital. Almost three weeks ahead of scheduled, I am going home! ... To begin with, I want to thank my incredible family who has provided unconditional support. I am indebted to Jeff and Johaness who came to my rescue and made sure I did not move. In addition, the incredible EMT team who took great care of me and brought me to Boulder Community Hospital so fast. It was there that Dr. Mason and Dr. Cook performed their magic and stabilized my spine through two incredible surgeries that left intact all my functions allowing me the possibility of a complete recovery with very "little" changes to my overall structure (that is if we consider all the Titanium hardware in my back "little"). From that point it was up to the amazing treatment of nurses and staff at Boulder Community that put up with me at my worst when I was under heavy sedation... I felt touched by everyone that helped me along. As I arrive home, I still have a long road ahead. But I feel that now most of the work starts to fall on my shoulders and also in the amazing support of my wife and daughter that have to put up with me at home.
Luis Perez
Littleton, CO
“Being in severe pain for over 3 years with lower back lumbar problems and not being able to function in daily activities, and seeing several doctors, I was finally recommended to Dr. Villavicencio. My surgery was April 7, 2009. The last words I remember were, we can’t make you younger, but they did! I’m PAIN FREE!! 3 months later and living a normal life.“
Joan A. Hunt
Longmont, CO
“I was one of the many people who had pain for about 2 years, got an MRI when the pain got more frequent and worse, saw a physician when I couldn't run any more because of pain. Dr. Nelson was amazingly detailed on the diagnostic end and very clear on treatment. I don't say that lightly because I am also a family doc and a little picky about who I go to personally.
“I was walking around 4 hours post op and realized within 3 minutes "that pain was gone". Anybody with back issues will know what I mean. I am now 3 weeks post surgery, walked 4 miles outside on a snow packed trail with 40" slow jogs - no pain. Never mind Dr. Nelson said don't run till 4 weeks. He doesn't know everything. But he is a really decent person. Oh, and I am 67 years old.”
Elisabeth Leistikow
Lafayette, CO
“On November 24th of 2008 I went over the handle bars on my bicycle and landed on my back fracturing bones in the spine. Dr. Mason attended to my injuries and explained what he was going to do, what the alternatives were, what I needed to do, what the recovery would be like, and what the long term prognosis was. Although I was not in much of a bargaining position, as I needed immediate surgery, I appreciated that Dr. Mason took the time to explain all this to me.
“He put two steel bars in my back and 10 screws to hold it all together. I still look at the x-ray in amazement. And it has worked! I started riding my bicycle last summer and am skiing this year. I have no problem working at my desk or doing everyday tasks that I usually do. I am overjoyed that it turned out so well, thanks to the professional skills of Dr. Mason. I would definitely recommend Dr. Mason.”Craig Fournier
Boulder, CO
“On June 24, 2009, I had a lumbar decompression and fusion on L 4 and 5. The surgery went well and upon my discharge from the hospital, Dr. Mason ordered a stay of two weeks at a local rehabilitation center. Prior to surgery, sciatic pain had prevented me from enjoying many activities. Now, however, I can stand up straight and indulge in long walks of one to three miles a day.”
Ann Brandt, age 75 years
Broomfield, CO
“There is no question in my mind that Doctor Mason literally saved my life through his skill and professionalism when he performed the craniotomy to alleviate the subdural hematoma that I had. Although it is true I don’t remember much of anything before the surgery, I was extremely impressed with him during my follow up appointment afterwards. He actually sat down with my wife and I to thoroughly answer our concerns and questions. Hopefully you will never need to have a hole drilled in your head like I had, but if you do you couldn’t have a better person doing it than Dr. Mason! I feel like I am 100% recovered, thanks to him.
Kenneth Catledge
Fort Lupton, CO
“I was most fortunate to have been referred to Dr. Villavicencio in 2006. At that time, I was experiencing chronic pain, numbness, and lack of mobility in my right arm. Dr. V performed two surgeries: July 20 and July 24, 2006, a discectomy and cervical spinal fusion. Following a two-month recovery and physical therapy, my improvement was incredible!
Patricia Vestrand
Boulder, CO
“Knowing you need back surgery is frightening enough without the additional responsibility of finding the best surgeon. At the suggestion of my primary physician, I made an appointment with Dr. Lee Nelson. I was immediately impressed with his genuine concern for my situation and his willingness to take as much time as needed to discuss options, expectations and recovery. I continue to respect his professionalism after my surgery in how he, his PA and his staff are committed to my healing. Dr. Nelson is a rare find in today’s health care system.”
G.Z.
Boulder, Colorado
“On Friday, the 13th of March, I had a very large aneurysm in my brain that burst resulting in a stroke. Fortunately for me, Dr. Alexander Mason was my neurosurgeon. Not only did he save my life, but he found I had cancer. All during my stay Rock Creek, and in my aftercare, he has been very supportive and caring. His bedside manner was wonderful. He took the time to explain things in plain English so that we could understand what was going on. What a wonderful asset you have in him.”
Donita Johnson
Arvada, Colorado
“I want to tell you that although I am back in San Diego, you and your staff are always with me, in my mind and in my heart. I live in gratitude for all that you did to save my daughter and my life. My daughter had an amazing second chance because of you and all the other physicians involved in her care. There are no words to express how I feel and no way to ever thank you enough.
Suzan Finkelstein
San Diego, CA
“After being diagnosed with a form of spinal stenosis, I knew I wanted both state-of-the-art medical care and a concerned and communicative medical team. I found both at Boulder Neurosurgical Associates.
“I initially chose Boulder Neurosurgical Associates because they have an excellent reputation with former patients and members of the medical community. A physician-friend referred me to one of their staff neurosurgeons, Lee Nelson, MD. Anyone facing painful spinal problems experiences some degree of anxiety and vulnerability and needs guidance to understand their specific medical problems and the complexity of treatment alternatives. For two months, Dr. Nelson helped me with this process. He was accessible and responsive each step of the way, very willing to share his thoughts and ideas. Even the support staff was caring and efficient in handling requests and making medical arrangements.
“After trying a couple of conservative treatment options, I decided to have surgery. For me, it was a good decision and my pain is gone. I am very excited about resuming my active lifestyle.
“I am grateful to Boulder Neurosurgical Associates for their expertise and assistance and would recommend them and my neurosurgeon, Lee Nelson, without hesitation.”
Heidi Mountain
Boulder, Colorado
Please also click this link to watch patient testimonial.
"In November 2009, I went to the emergency room with terrible pain in my arm and shoulder. I was introduced to Dr. Mason of Boulder Neurosurgical Associates. He explained that I had degenerative disc disease in my cervical spine. Dr. Mason answered all my questions and used diagrams and models to describe my condition and explained all my possible options. He was very thorough and professional.
Jana M. Christensen
“Long ago, me, my horse and a cliff had a rendezvous over by Steamboat, Colorado. That was the first severe injury to my lower back, though I had treated that part and the rest of my body with less than caution until then. I kept riding bulls (me and Advil), extreme skiing, wrestling, and horseback riding. My back got progressively worse, and I refused to see a doctor. Perhaps it was a trust issue, perhaps denial, and maybe I knew that science was not quite where it needed to be to get the repair work done with the result I would insist on from a surgery. I grinned (not always) and put up with the deterioration over the years, refusing to limit my activities. Then, in December 2006, my back said "enough!" and an additional injury resulted in me dragging my left leg around, and enough pain to make my eyes cross.
Reid Rosenthal
Sheridan, Montana
"After living with worsening lumbar stenosis symptoms for three years, I made a nervous decision to have laminotomy surgery with Dr. Lee Nelson at Boulder Neurosurgical Associates.
“My nervousness was unnecessary! I am now pain free and play golf again. Dr. Nelson brought to my situation the unique expertise needed to resolve my problem, the commitment to apply the most advanced and least invasive approach to my surgery, and the compassion to communicate effectively with me throughout. I couldn't be more pleased with the results."
Beth Cross
Boulder, Colorado
“I am 34 years old and Dr. V performed a dual microdiscectomy on my lower lumbar back in December of 2004. I had never been in such pain in my entire life. I could not live a normal life, because all I ever thought about was the pain. My right leg and back had shooting pains and I could barely walk much less work. I had some back problems since I was 17 years old on and off. Once the pain became unbearable I was forced to have surgery because it was my only option. I had been opposed to it in the past.
Damon Sanders
Park City, Utah
“I met Dr. Nelson on a Tuesday. I remember the day clearly because I was in a wheelchair, and in agony due to low back pain and burning ice-fire in my legs and feet. My other physician didn't know what was wrong with me and suggested pain medication and patience. Meanwhile, I was unable to work, cook, clean, or shop. As time passed, I was unable to shower, walk, stand, sit, or lay down without extreme pain. I'd been struggling mightily for four months.
“On the Tuesday I met Dr. Nelson, he listened to my story, performed an examination, and said words I'll never forget: "How about we admit you and do surgery tomorrow?" He also patted my knee and said, "We care about you and we'll take care of you." I wept with relief. He immediately intuited that the lumbar disc was bulging terribly. He immediately knew I needed help, N-O-W.
“The next day I had a double lumbar laminectomy. When I woke, I was utterly, blessedly pain free.
“It's been one month since surgery, and I'm back to work, back to life, already walking a mile and a half each day, and feeling terrific. I'll never forget Dr. Nelson's compassion and expertise!”
H. W.
“After basically collapsing at my office one day in excruciating pain, I learned, through a subsequent MRI, that I apparently had herniated a disk in my lower back some time before. Dr. V. and his team managed to control my immediate pain with medication, but neither the medication, nor a later cortisone shot, relieved the pressure that the herniated disk was placing on a nerve in my back. This pressure caused me pain in my leg and foot, as well as numbness, sensitivity to touch, and weakness in my foot, which affected my walking and other physical activities. After consulting with Dr. V and his staff, I opted to have the damaged pieces of my disc surgically removed.
Walter Goodwin
Boulder, Colorado
I don’t know if you remember me, you operated on my spine. I just want you to know that you saved my life and I can’t thank you enough for doing this for me. You put two metal plates in my neck and I am doing just fine. I just want you to know how very much I have appreciate what you did for me.”
Cecil Tuenge
North Plate, Nebraska
“Sorry, this has taken so long but, I have been running around the country with my family. Obviously, none of this would have been possible without your help. When I came to you last summer, I was in constant pain. I could not walk, stand, sit or sleep comfortably, or for very long. I was scared of another surgery and the long recovery. I am so grateful that you were able to get me in quickly and operate so smoothly and successfully.
Jane Butcher
Boulder, Colorado
“I wanted to write to you personally and thank you for helping me with the stenosis I had in my low back. I started back to work today and although I am moving a bit slower with mild discomfort, I am grateful for the work you have done. The symptoms, I had in my legs and feet are virtually gone and even the “creepy” feeling I was getting is also gone. In fact, my entire experience with your group was extraordinary!
Tom Scriven
Colorado Springs, Co
“I broke my neck during a hockey game when an opposing player broke the rules and checked me when I didn’t see him coming. I have never experienced fear and panic the way I did during the following four days as an inpatient. I was very uneasy around the medical staff during my initial treatment, and had tremendous fear about my ensuing surgery and what it would mean for the rest of my life.
Kevin Churchill
Golden, Colorado
“I was experiencing relentless headaches, pain between my shoulder blades, staggering, dropping things, tingling and numbness in my hands and arms. I saw my primary physician and was advised to consult a neurologist, then three other specialists, each of whom was unable to explain or correct the problems.
Mary Gleason
Boulder, Colorado
“The best of the best is all one needs to know. My first encounter with Dr. V was when I was brought in by helicopter in a "flight for life." Yes, I'm sure he dropped whatever he was doing to speak with the doctors in Wyoming and agree to be available to perform the unscheduled emergency surgery that would prevent me being paralyzed from a broken neck. I'm sorry if it inconvenienced those that might have had scheduled appointments, but I and my family will be eternally grateful.
Professor Jeffrey S. Fox
Department of Mathematics University of Colorado Boulder
“Just wanted to touch base with you by email. You did an L4-L5 fusion on me January 18, 2007. I had broken L4 some 30 years prior, and before the surgery, it had really worn out. I put this operation off for many, many years but it had finally got so bad in December 2006 I decided to have the surgery.
CM
Boulder, Colorado
"Prior to my surgery, it was difficult for me to walk because of the pain I experienced in my legs. I was apprehensive of the surgery because I had never had a "major" surgery before. But after my surgery by Dr V, I have had no more pain in my legs and am enjoying walking from four to six miles every day now! Thank you so much, Dr. V!"
Eileen Blood
Frederick, CO
“Eighteen months ago, Dr. Villavicencio surgically corrected my degenerated disc condition. Since then, I am completely pain free and can enjoy all normal activities. He and Physician Assistant, Alex Ashton, explained the options, procedure and anticipated the outcome in a way that I felt included in the decision-making process. An added plus is the very professional office staff. All my appointments have been on time and follow-up calls have been quickly made. It seems everyone values the patients' time. I could not be more pleased with Boulder Neurosurgical Associates.”
Bob Snell
Lyons, Colorado
“Here is a proof that you can still join the circus at Club Med Bali after four neck surgeries! Show this one to your patients that you do good work! :)”
Dana Dolan
Boulder, CO
“When I think about my experience of having serious back surgery at Boulder Community Hospital, there are many words that come to my mind to describe the absolutely professional care I received from you. Some of those words are competent, compassion, humbleness, and the way you so carefully explained what would be necessary to correct the problem. I so appreciated the way you prepared me for the recovery period. It is so wonderful to be free of pain after several years and I would recommend your services to anyone. Thank you for my new lease on life!”
Barb Wilson
Estes Park, Colorado
“My name is Bobby, I’m 19 years old. I have scoliosis. It was getting really bad. My neck and shoulders were getting curved. My back and arms always hurt. Before surgery I was only about 4’8” tall and now I’m about 5’3” tall. My mom is really short, so now she calls me her giant man. The surgery itself went really well and my back healed really fast. There’s only one line down the middle of my back, there was very little swelling and bruising. They said recovery would take at least 1 year. But it only took about half the time to heal ☺. My Drs. were really nice and helpful. They answered all my questions and took time to listen to me.“
Bobby Estes
Wheat Ridge, CO
“I just wanted to thank you for the GREAT surgery on my back. Everything seems to be going very well; no sciatica or other pain and have been playing golf for a month now. I have given your name to friends who have asked and it seems you will see my brother Charles early in the New Year to fix his back problems. Thanks again.”
PH Christiansted
St. Croix, Virgin Islands
“God Bless our Surgeons!!! After months of pain and agony, and barely being able to walk, I relented not knowing what the outcome would be. Upon advice and receiving care in a quick response, I went under the knife with some apprehension, not realizing that when you have the best to offer, you receive the best!!! I walked away with little to no pain and am getting stronger as each day passes. There is no question that the two surgeons I had, Dr. Villavicencio and Dr. Mason, have the best training money can buy. I sincerely appreciate them and thank them for taking me as a patient so quickly.”
Dahl Morgan
Pueblo West, CO
“Dr. V saved our son's life with a very difficult and rarely done procedure. He had the confidence and the skill to do this procedure, which others had declined. He explained to us what he needed to do and afterward spent the necessary time to explain how it went and showed us the MRI and CT scans of before and after. He took all the time we needed to answer questions. We cannot understand those people who are complaining about his bedside manner. True, he is not a hand-holder, but considering that an extra 15 minutes with each of his patients would mean fewer patients getting the benefit of his skill, we would rather have him in the operating room than wringing hands with us. We also need to compliment the surgical team he has working with him and the staff at Boulder Community Hospital. They are all first rate.”
Jeremy Coleman
Durango, CO
“I had severe deformity in my spine and it actually was crippling me so I couldn’t walk without pain and at times fell because my legs failed. My spine was curving in an S, so I was hunching over.
“Now – no pain, recovering strength and mobility.
Thanks Dr. Villavicencio.”
Joann Englerth
Longmont, CO
“Hi Dr. V.,
“Doing very well, no back pain at all in the area of disc. I have occasional mild pain at the right sciatic notch, particularly when sitting too long. Nerve pain in legs is mostly gone… occasional discomfort, again when sitting too long in some chairs (or car seats). Twitch in left toes has stopped. I am able to do all activities with no discomfort at all (currently yoga, elliptical trainer, Nordic skiing, horseback riding, walking).
“Thank you! I feel like I have my life back again…”
A.M.
Cody, WY
“Dr. V,
“Just wanted to take a quick minute of your time. I just wanted to thank you for the surgery performed on Oct. 12th on me at MISI. I am feeling better than I thought possible in a short amount of time. For that I thank You.
Rick Agar
Palgrave, Ontario