Relief After Years of Pain: Jennifer's Cervical Spine Surgery Success Story
February 03, 2026
Jennifer, a retired pharmacist with over 20 years of service at Memorial Regional Hospital, never imagined she would one day rely on her own hospital for life-changing care. After retiring, Jennifer began experiencing troubling symptoms, including balance issues, numbness in her hands and legs, and, eventually, urinary incontinence.
Diagnosed with cervical compression (a condition that causes compression of the spinal cord in your neck) at Memorial Neuroscience Institute, she was advised of the potential need for spinal surgery if her condition worsened.
As her symptoms progressed, Jennifer underwent surgery at Memorial Hospital West. Though she faced complications, including temporary loss of mobility in her left arm, the dedicated rehabilitation specialists at Memorial Regional Hospital South provided aggressive physical therapy and occupational therapy, enabling Jennifer to regain her strength and independence.
She fondly recalls the exceptional care she received during her rehabilitation and hospital stay.
From environmental services cleaning the room, to food services providing what I wanted to eat, it was very excellent. The nursing, medical, and rehab staff were excellent as well. Everything was top-notch.
Throughout her journey, Jennifer was given valuable resources, such as handouts and online videos, to continue her rehabilitation exercises at home. Now, with significantly improved mobility and stability, Jennifer reflects on her experience with immense gratitude for Memorial Healthcare System staff. She is especially grateful that her concerns about raised scars (keloid scarring) were listened to and carefully addressed during her surgery.
Jennifer’s story is a powerful testimonial that demonstrates our commitment to a patient-first approach and successful recovery.
We've Got the Spine, Back, and Nerve to Care for You
Memorial Healthcare System delivers comprehensive, lifelong neuroscience care for adults at Memorial Neuroscience Institute, and children at Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital. Patients with the most severe neurological and traumatic spinal injuries receive rapid, coordinated care at the Level 1 Trauma Center at Memorial Regional Hospital, while those with complex seizure disorders benefit from the nationally recognized Level IV Epilepsy Center and dedicated Epilepsy Monitoring Unit. Memorial also operates two Comprehensive Stroke Centers, ensuring the highest level of stroke diagnosis, intervention, and recovery support. Together, these programs create a seamless, system‑wide network of world‑class neurosurgical care, rehabilitation, and compassionate support for every patient and family.