Real Stories. Real Impact.

Discover inspiring journeys from patients whose lives have been transformed by the compassionate expertise of our neurosciences team. These stories highlight not only the strength and resilience of those we serve, but also the unwavering commitment of our doctors, nurses, and support staff—professionals who take the time to listen, explain, and collaborate closely with each patient.       

Minimally Invasive Brain Cancer Procedure
Minimally Invasive Brain Cancer Procedure >
Minimally Invasive Brain Cancer Procedure
  • Larry's life took an unexpected turn after seeking care for what he thought was severe congestion caused by allergies. He was shocked to learn he had a rare and complex cancer that started in his sinuses and spread to his brain. Larry was referred to a surgical team at John Muir Health using advanced techniques that improve outcomes and the patient experience.
    Neurosurgeon Dr. Max B. Merkow and ENT Skull Base Surgeon Dr. Jeehong Peter Kim collaborated to remove Larry's cancer through his nose. This approach avoided traditional brain surgery, which would have required a large opening of his skull. This endoscopic, minimally invasive surgery meant a safer, scarless procedure with less pain and a quicker recovery. Larry was able to leave the hospital just a few days after the operation.
    "Drs. Merkow and Kim are amazing - being able to do what they did through the nose, wow!" Larry said. "John Muir Health is a very caring place - the nurses were responsive and took great care of me."
    This complex surgery required close collaboration between two highly specialized surgeons. We are fortunate to have the expertise of Drs. Kim and Merkow, right here in the East Bay.
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery >
Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
  • After three years of increasingly severe back pain and multiple Emergency Department visits, Heather had reached a point where she was unable to walk. Heather has Parkinson's Disease and has gone through painful procedures, including brain surgery, but had never experienced pain this intolerable. This was not only a physical and medical issue, but also put strain on personal relationships and resulted in feelings of isolation. Eventually, Heather had to be rushed to the Emergency Department, suffering to the point where she was begging to die. Staff struggled to identify the issue until another MRI and a neurosurgery consult finally led Heather to the care she desperately needed. It turns out Heather had damaged spinal discs and an arthritic cyst that needed to be removed immediately, otherwise risking paralysis. She was referred to Dr. Max Merkow, who specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery and serves as Neurosurgical Medical Director at our Walnut Creek Medical Center. Heather credits Dr. Merkow and his team with saving her life. After spine surgery and rehabilitation, Heather is able to walk again with minimal pain. She is also able to do the things she loves, like painting - when she got a chance to thank Dr. Merkow in person, she brought one of her paintings as a gift. Not only are we grateful for Heather's recovery, but she has generously offered her insights to our Patient Engagement team, to advocate for other patients and help ensure those who suffer from chronic pain and illness receive the compassionate care they deserve.

Awards & Recognition

The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™ for Certification as Stroke Centers
The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™ for certification as Primary Stroke Center (Concord Medical Center) and Comprehensive Stroke Center (Walnut Creek Medical Center)

After undergoing an on-site evaluation and demonstrating compliance with nationally developed standards for stroke care, John Muir Health’s Concord and Walnut Creek Medical Centers have earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™ for certification as Primary Stroke Center (Concord Medical Center) and Comprehensive Stroke Center (Walnut Creek Medical Center). By achieving certification as Primary and Comprehensive Stroke Centers, we have proven our ability to provide effective, timely care to stroke victims, which can significantly improve outcomes for stroke patients.