Updated on Jun. 16, 2025
This Father’s Day, MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center is celebrating a bond that goes beyond the typical father-daughter relationship. Patrick Espinoza, scrub tech, and Lauren Espinoza, a registered nurse are not just family; they are the first father-daughter duo working together in the Labor, Delivery, Recovery, Postpartum (LDRP) suite at The Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Medical Center.
While Lauren was in training, she and her father worked together on the day shift, participating for the first time as a member of one care team during a C-section. This experience was a proud moment for Patrick, who had the opportunity to mentor his daughter and see her excel in healthcare, following in his footsteps.
"My best memory of working with my dad is being in the operating room with him for the first time," says Lauren. "The nurses at The Women’s Hospital often tell me they love having my dad as their scrub tech during complicated procedures because of his calm demeanor. During my first time in the OR, there was a minor complication, and the way my dad handled it with such ease and reliability gave me a sense of comfort and confidence."
Patrick’s and Lauren’s shifts now overlap briefly, where Patrick works during the day, while Lauren works nights. This transition allows them to share insights and experiences, enhancing their ability to provide exceptional patient care.
Seeing my dad as I finish my shift and he begins his is like passing the torch. It’s a comforting and motivating way to start and end my day, knowing that we’re both here dedicated to the same mission of providing excellent care.
- Lauren
Their collaboration is not limited to the operating room. The overlap of their shifts allows them to regularly discuss patient care and share perspectives on the joys and challenges of their work. This unique father-daughter team is a testament to the supportive, family-oriented atmosphere at Saddleback Medical Center.
Patrick Espinoza has been with The Women’s Hospital since its inception, prior to which he was stationed in San Diego as part of the Navy since 1988. Over the years, Patrick has earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and patients and their families, with his commitment to excellence and the relationships he’s built.
Lauren Espinoza joined the team just over two years ago and is her first job outside of nursing school—a place she’s known since childhood. Lauren’s mother, Jessica, also works in healthcare as a nurse at a hospital in San Diego. The Espinoza family’s deep-rooted connection to healthcare, and their shared passion for healing, have created a supportive and nurturing environment for Lauren’s professional growth.
"I'm incredibly proud to work alongside my daughter," Patrick shares. "Seeing her develop into such a compassionate and skilled nurse has been one of the greatest joys of my career."
