After fighting pancreatic cancer for more than 40 years, Dr. Howard Hayashi, a surgeon from the Central Coast, passed away over the weekend.
According to Alan Hayashi, Dr. Howard’s brother, he passed away peacefully at home on Sunday in the company of his loved ones.
Dr. Hayashi, MD is a general surgeon in San Luis Obispo, CA and has over 41 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from University of California, Davis School of Medicine in 1982. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Adventist Health Twin Cities and Marian Regional Medical Center.
Sue Andersen, CEO/President of Dignity Health Central Coast Hospitals, said, “He was a highly skilled surgeon who was adored in our community and cared for thousands of our family members.” He was usually smiling, according to his friends and colleagues.
Andersen said, “Dr. Hayashi would give you a big bear hug.”
In order to discuss a patient, I have occasionally had to phone him late at night, on a weekend, or on a holiday. Pacific Central Coast Health Centers CEO/President Dr. Scott Robertson remarked, “He was always willing to provide a hand in any way he could.
Dr. Robertson claims to have known Hayashi for over two decades.
“So many people found comfort in the way he interacted with his patients, giving them a degree of trust in addition to his level of expertise.” We’re all incredibly thankful to have been his partners and colleagues because he did this throughout his career,” Robertson said.
Dr. Howard Hayashi’s influence on the community will last a lifetime.
“No one will have to relocate. “That part will be very much missed,” Andersen said. “He was so well known in the community that people wanted to go to Howard and wanted him to be their surgeon.
Nancy Steffora talked about her memories of Dr. Hayashi, who she worked with at the Coastal Surgical Institute.
When I came to Arroyo Grande in 1998, I got to know Dr. Howard Hayashi for the first time. His compassion and kindness had a lasting impression on everyone who was fortunate enough to know him, including myself, from that first moment.
His unwavering dedication was never in question. He was always there for his community, helping people and families in ways that changed numerous lives, including making house calls when family members became ill. He was a benefit to many people on the Central Coast, giving freely of his time and presence.
