This is quite a bit late, sorry, but as I was just admiring my gardens and Florida landscaped yard..WHICH I DID!!!!...It got me thinking of how I truly owe my life....my LIFE to Dr Arkins. I was only 24 and had lumbar herniations along with a near-severed nerve between them. No feeling in my R leg and starting to experience bladder control. I was back in Ct for a funeral and lost complete control of my bladder at the reception. Was rushed to Milford E.R. and seen by a Dr who quickly had me talking on the telephone to a Dr Arkins who asked me if I could come in and see him first thing in the a.m. It was a Sunday. He said not to worry, he would be there, and he was. He studied my films, over n over, pointing out what was going on and explaining how he would "fix it". I would need a partial discectomy of L4&L5 IMMEDIATELY and made sure to let me know that typically pins and rods should be used but he wouldn'tt want a 24y/o woman to be guaranteed lifelong discomfort. The next day came and he called me back to the office to discuss something. He had contacted my insurance comp. and he wanted to inform me that they were NOT going to cover any costs of surgery bc I was out of state. The same state whose Drs allowed me to walk around for 10 months in that condition, viewing the very same images Arkins had! I remember feeling crushed and that I was doomed to become paralyzed and carry a colostomy bag. Thats when Dr A got up from his chair, walked over to mine, leaned in and said "Do you think I give a sh** about those idiot insurance companies? I have a daughter" he said. "She your exact age, lives on the west coast. If she was in this condition, I would hope to God that her Dr would put his oath before his bank acct and help her. " He grabbed my hand and said " I will be doing your surgery anyway, if youd like me to....no cost" I was blown away and I think i just sat there staring in disbelief for about a full minute. I couldn't believe what I just heard. He walked back to his desk and got down to business..... "Now, we're going to have to sign off on a lot of papers/liabilities that release the hospital of responsibility. You will receive a bill but it will be from the hospitals Anesthesiology Dept....Not from me, Never from me. " He's old school like that and he has what every newer drs lack. Empathy! This man didnt see me as just another patient or someone who couldnt pay. He seen me as a human being. One who was already a young mother, one who had her whole life in front of her and his own conscience wouldnt allow him to let money be the reason why he couldnt help this young lady❤❤ Today I do mostly everything I want....and my gardens? My gardens are something I would've never been able to learn how much I love working in them .....That type of physical hobby would not have been an option for me. And neither would any of the 3 boys I went on to have with my husband!! Dr. Arkins was an angel who saved not only my life.....but also my soul. He probably has no idea how many times he crosses my mind but one thing is for sure, I thank God everyday that the whole scenario unfolded the way it did and I thank him....for being more than just a Dr, but a very special, one of a kind, caring, thoughtful and selfless human being with a heart and feelings. THANK YOU DR THOMAS J ARKINS.... THANK YOU SOOO MUCH💙❤💙
(Surgery was July 3rd, 2002- Im still going Doc!!)

Submitted July 30, 2018

Dr Arkins did my back surgery in 2009, I have seen many back Dr's, I have permanent nerve damage, not because of anything he did. He is the best Dr. I have ever seen! He is brilliant, and gave me invaluable advice regarding my back and what to allow and what not to allow from other Dr's I've seen since my surgery, he was always honest and considerate, and if I ever need future surgery he will do it! He is what every Dr. should be "a patient advocate" and I and family will always be greatful for his help and guidance.

Submitted Feb. 28, 2013

I've had several operations that were performed by Dr. Arkins, and my pain specialist. Dr. Arkins is awesome. He is very intelligent, and unlike some of the other cold uncaring doctors in his field, he really cares about finding a way to alleviate your pain. He works hard to stay current with the latest technology, as well as new treatments that others may be having success with. I haven't looked for a new neurosurgeon. I'd think that alone would be a resounding endorsement. It means I trust him with my life.

Submitted Dec. 1, 2008

performed surgery then pretended everything was fine when in fact we had concerns resulting from the surgery. Used salesman like strategy to encourage surgery.

Submitted March 2, 2008

Very knowledgable in his field. Gave me the time I needed and answered all my questions. Made me feel at ease and was very attentative to my needs.

Submitted Feb. 14, 2008