Inspire 2023 ANNUAL REPORT
Wilcox: Leaving a Lasting Impression
Some of the Wilcox team that cared for Marc Wilmot. From left: Dr. Christine Janke, internal medicine hospitalist; Noemi Cortado, clinical assistant; Dr. Luke Fornari, internal medicine hospitalist; and Miranda Padilla, nurse case manager.
There’s something special about Kauai. From its picturesque beaches and seemingly countless acres of undeveloped land to majestic mountain views, the Garden Isle has features that cannot be found anywhere else. It’s easy to see why avid surfer, artist and musician Marc Wilmot loved the island. He even worked for the County of Kauai as a maintenance supervisor. But a few years after he retired, he started experiencing heart problems.
His son Ryan said that in 2022, Marc had heart valve surgery on Oahu, but then developed a serious infection. Marc went to Wilcox Medical Center for treatment.
“Everyone we interacted with showed genuine compassion toward my dad, making him feel well cared for and in good hands during a challenging time,” Ryan said. “The staff at Wilcox provided detailed explanations about the care he was receiving and the reasons behind it.”
Marc spent about eight weeks in the Intensive Care Unit at Wilcox, dealing with various health conditions. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2023. Although the Wilmot family was devastated by the loss of their patriarch, the compassionate care they received left a lasting impression.
Marc (left) and Ryan Wilmot on Ryan’s wedding day.
“The medical team did everything possible to support my dad and his failing organs,” Ryan said. “The Wilcox staff was exceptionally supportive throughout my family’s ordeal, which highlights their dedication and passion.”
The Wilmots understand the importance of quality health care and the role it plays in the well-being of communities, especially on Kauai. Wilcox is a state-of-the-art acute care facility and was the first Level III Trauma Center verified by the American College of Surgeons in the state of Hawaii.
“I've witnessed firsthand the critical role Wilcox plays in our community,” Ryan said. “From birth through all of life's stages, everyone on the island benefits from having access to world-class medical facilities during the most challenging moments.”
Growing up on Kauai, Ryan always knew about the island’s largest medical center, but the care his father received inspired him to give to Wilcox.
Marc had a big presence in Ryan’s life. His unwavering support and encouragement allowed Ryan to start several technology companies over the years. He launched his first just three years after graduating from Kapaa High School; it’s still rooted on the Garden Isle today. Though he now lives in California, Kauai will always be home so, in honor of his dad, Ryan made a $100,000 gift to Wilcox. It will help provide care for the community he loves and that his dad cherished.
“Whether it’s for treatment or to visit a patient, nearly everyone I know has been to Wilcox at some point, and many have received lifesaving care there,” Ryan said. “The daily impact of the medical center’s work is palpable and inspiring.”