Stanford radiologist remembered for passion, generosity

Gerald Friedland, MD, professor emeritus of radiology at the Stanford University School of Medicine, died earlier this month at the age of 82. 

Stanford’s website featured a detailed look at Friedland’s life, summarizing his many accomplishments and sharing stories from family members and close friends.  

Friedland was formerly chief of the organization now known as the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System. He was also a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh. In addition, Friedland helped organize the first Pioneering Women in Medicine conference in 2000, and co-wrote Medicine’s 10 Great Discoveries, also in 2000.

He received a Lifetime Achievement Award from Stanford for his long, impactful career.

Stanford’s tribute to Friedland also made note of his passion for research. He focused on pediatric radiology and radiologic gastroenterology early on, but was also fascinated by such subjects as uroradiology, ultrasound, and the early development of human embryos.

“When he was pursuing something, he didn’t give up,” Leslie Zatz, MD, said, as quoted in Stanford’s tribute. “He was dogged and kept at it until he got the best answer he could.”

Friedland’s generosity and kindness were also noted. He was known for always going above and beyond to help trainees and young physicians.

Friedland’s family has said memorial donations can be made to The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research.