Dr. Vivian Strong, MD

Dr. Vivian Strong is an extraordinary surgeon — exceptionally intelligent, skilled, and genuinely compassionate. When I first met her, I was full of fear and anxiety about my diagnosis. She spoke to me with such a sincere smile and comforting words that it felt like being wrapped in a warm blanket after a cold storm. That moment changed everything for me. Dr. Strong is at the forefront of robotic surgery, and her technical skill is truly world-class. My partial gastrectomy was performed robotically, and I was amazed to have only a few small incisions and a remarkably smooth recovery. Her expertise and innovation made an incredible difference in my healing process. What makes Dr. Strong truly exceptional, however, is her heart. My surgery took place on a Thursday, and though she had to travel out of state immediately afterward throughout the weekend, she promised to check on me when she returned Monday. I waited on Monday until office was closed and thought she probably won’t be coming. However around 9:30 p.m., after what must have been an exhausting day, she came to my hospital room personally — just as she had promised. She sat by my bedside, gently woke me up, and checked on my recovery. The next morning, at 7:30, she returned again with her backpack in hand to talk with me. I was in tears — I had never met a doctor so dedicated, kind, and genuine. Her entire team at Sloan Kettering — from fellows to nurses and office staff — share her compassion and professionalism. Facing cancer is one of life’s hardest journeys, but having doctors and caregivers like Dr. Strong and the MSK team brings profound hope and comfort to patients and their families. Dr. Strong has left a lasting mark on my life. I will forever be grateful for her brilliance, her kindness, and her extraordinary care.