I was scheduled to check in on March 12th, 2026 at 5am for my back surgery…read more
Checking in was a breeze as everyone we interacted with was very welcoming, kind, helpful and whatever stress/fear/anxiety is came in with, slowly disappeared because of the way they treated me and put me at ease.
My Surgeon, Dr. Frank Coufal is well known, highly recommended, he diagnosed me correctly after seeing my MRI and knowing all the positive results of his previous patients was my reason for being here.
Surgery: L2 to L5 Laminectomy
The RN and Nursing Assistant that prepared me pre surgery were amazing.
In addition, I have to also mention the following OR staff that made my fears disappear and gave me the confidence in the procedure.
Thank you to...
Dr. Frank Coufal (Sou-fall), Surgeon
Dr. Cheung, Anesthesiologist
Cris Teena Hunt, Neuro tech
The two ladies that eased my mind, comforted me, moved to to OR, operation table and to recovery room post op...
HAYLEY IVIHOFF (Not sure about the spelling of the last name)
NICOLE DONAHUE
These two ladies were my angels. They made all my fears disappear and even checked on me in the Recovery Room. Thank you Hayley and Nicole!
In recovery, I had the sweetest nurse, Lisa Shore. She was incredibly warm and helpful.
Next three days I had the best care from every nurse/nursing assistant, physical therapist, occupational therapist, phlebotomy tech, folks that brought my meals and people that cleaned my room thoroughly every day.
I hope I never need surgery or to be hospitalized. But if I do, this is the only hospital I will be choosing.
I even made a video on my YouTube channel to thank everyone that cared for me.
THANKS TO SCRIPPS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL LA JOLLA!
After suffering from back pain for over 20 years (level 5 to 10, daily), Dr. Coufal's work released me from pain. The numbing in my feet and hands that made me unable to walk or create art (I'm an artist) was gone in recovery room. A week after surgery, I was walking without a walker. Now 5 months after, I am walking with no pain and don't take pain meds every day. If I over do it, I may need Advil but that would be for anyone.